Finding Courage: A Heartfelt Journey with But Not the Hippopotamus
As any mom will tell you, bedtime can sometimes feel like a chaotic game of hide and seek—everyone’s searching for calm amidst the everyday hustle. On one particularly frenzied evening, with my two little ones buzzing like fireflies, I reached for But Not the Hippopotamus by Sandra Boynton in hopes of finding that serene pause we all crave. Little did I know, this delightful tale would not only capture their imaginations but also spark conversations that lingered long after the last page was turned.
But Not the Hippopotamus follows a hesitant hippo who observes other lively animals having a blast in the bog—trying on hats, going for jogs, and generally living it up while the hippo ponders whether she should join in. The story builds a gentle tension, leaving readers rooting for the hippo to break free from her shyness. With each read, I watch my little ones erupt into giggles at the witty rhymes and silly antics, and I can’t help but feel a tug at my heartstrings as they chant, “But not the hippopotamus!” in unison.
Boynton’s illustrations are as vibrant as a summer garden, bursting with color and character. My five-year-old loves to circle her finger around the pages, tracing the joyful shenanigans of these cheeky creatures. We’ve had moments where they’ve pointed out their favorite animals, and I’ve loved hearing them mimic the sounds of each—today, it was the hippo’s hesitant “Hmm…” which led to discussions about trying new things, just like the hippo. I was pleasantly surprised at how the book not only entertained but also provided a beautiful opportunity for us to chat about courage and making new friends.
One evening, as I read the book aloud, I noticed my two-year-old’s brow furrowing when the hippo hesitates. "Mommy, why is she sad?” she asked, her voice soft with concern. This simple question opened a heartfelt dialogue about feelings and being brave, reminding me that even in the silliness of a board book, there lies profound wisdom.
While my toddler might still prefer Moo Baa La La La for its rhythmic fun, But Not the Hippopotamus has quickly woven itself into our nightly routine. It’s short and engaging enough to hold their attention—exactly what any busy parent looks for! One of our favorite lines, “Saying, HEY! COME JOIN THE LOT OF US!” has become our little family motto for encouraging each other to step outside our comfort zones.
I recommend But Not the Hippopotamus for families with toddlers to early preschoolers—any child who enjoys colorful pictures, playful rhymes, and stories that inspire laughter and courage. It’s one of those books you’ll reach for repeatedly, sharing giggles and sweet moments together as your kiddos grow. It’s a gentle nudge for all of us, to take that leap, just like our dear hippopotamus did.
In the beautifully chaotic world of parenting, sometimes it’s the tiniest stories that echo the most profoundly in our hearts. And on those long, busy days, finding a cherished moment with your children wrapped in the pages of a book can be a pure treasure. ✨
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