About This Book
A parent might reach for this book when their imaginative child feels a little different or misunderstood for their unique quirks. In this wonderfully absurd tale, a small boy named Robert is followed home from school each day by a growing herd of hippopotami. The story explores themes of individuality and acceptance through a lens of pure whimsy. As Robert's parents seek a magical 'cure' for his hippo problem, the book gently suggests that what makes us special isn't something to be fixed. It's a perfect story for early elementary readers, celebrating creativity and the joy of embracing the unexpected in ourselves and others.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book's core theme is about being different, handled metaphorically. The hippos represent a unique quality in Robert that attracts attention. The 'problem' is not Robert's feelings but the perception of the adults around him. The attempt to 'cure' his uniqueness doesn't erase it but simply changes its form. The resolution is entirely hopeful and secular, celebrating that one's special qualities are persistent and a source of delight.
Ideal Reader
This book is perfect for a 6 to 8-year-old with a robust imagination or a quirky trait that makes them stand out. It's for the child who might be starting to notice they are different, but isn't necessarily sad about it. It validates their uniqueness in a silly, non-preachy way, reinforcing the idea that being different can be delightful.
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