Ten Little Hippos

Toddlers count along with a hefty cast of Broadway hippos as the performers fumble with countable props, false doors, and other silly situations during their comic revue. BOMC.

PreSchool-Grade 1-- A troupe of jovial hippos traipses through this counting book, losing members to mishaps from act to act. The text begins with ten and counts down to one performer, who summons her cast members for a final curtain call. The rhymes are sometimes awkward , and the illustrations are rather static for the actions they depict. Nevertheless, children will enjoy the cheerful vaudevillians colorfully clothed in neon colors. The layouts are attractive, with the stage appearing in each spread and providing plenty of room for the plump performers. While James Marshall's `` George and Martha '' (Houghton) are still the stars of hippo hilarity, those needing additional counting books may want to consider this adequate offering. --Lori A. Janick, Parkwood Elementary School, Pasadena, TX
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

The creator of the playful Buffalo Girls here stages an equally entertaining performance--this one featuring a cast of hippos on stage, decked out in gaily colored costumes. The curtain opens on "Ten little hippos dancing in a line." Then "one falls away. Now there are . . ." Young listeners will fill in the blank, as a turn of the page reveals nine roller-skating hippos against a different backdrop. The scenery changes on each spread, as more and more hippos disappear. The countdown is complete when "One little hippo waiting for her chance / Calls to all her friends to come and join the final dance," and all 10 performers return to take a bow. Though youngsters may be so regaled by the antics on stage that they'll ignore a few glitches in McCarthy's rhyme scheme, adults will perhaps be less forgiving. But the ebullient illustrations will receive hearty applause from all. Ages 1-7.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.