by Jonathan London School Library Journal PreS-Gr 2-With gorgeous mixed-media illustrations and accessible, engaging language, this picture book will spur interest in the world of hippos. Trueman's vivid images take advantage of every inch of available space to convey the size of these creatures, and the "Isn't this cool?" tone of London's text keeps readers hooked. Two types of text appear on each page: larger print encompasses the main narrative full of fascinating facts (ideal for reading aloud), while smaller print presents drier statistics and additional facts of interest. With a focus on high-interest details-such as a spread featuring two bull hippos flinging dung at each other in warning-this title stands out. VERDICT A solid nonfiction read-aloud.-Kathleen Kelly MacMillan, Carroll County Public Library, MD (c) Copyright 2015. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted. (c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted. Book list Illustrator Trueman emphasizes the book's title right from the start, with a cover illustration featuring the enormous, gaping yawn of a hippopotamus. This large format, eye-catching book is wonderfully designed for the youngest researchers and naturalists. London has chosen the facts most likely to interest kids, such as hippos' crocodile-crunching and dung-swatting capabilities (the latter features an illustration that will definitely prompt giggles). He uses two types of text: one with simple vocabulary in a large, dark print, and another providing more detailed information in a smaller, lighter font. Trueman's mixed-media illustrations seem to burst off the page in dominating double-page spreads, with occasional smaller drawings scattered throughout. Perfect for group storytime reading or individual enjoyment, this is also an ideal book for teaching reference and research skills to beginning readers. An easy-to-use index highlights simple vocabulary (e.g. fighting, speed, weight). Sure to be a favorite!--Rutan, Lynn Copyright 2015 Booklist From Booklist, Copyright © American Library Association. Used with permission. |
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