'Hidden Hippo' by Joan Gannij

What WE Say...

‘Hidden Hippo’ is a Barefoot Book story written by Joan Gannij and illustrated by Clare Beaton.

Many years ago, my eldest, who was about 2 at the time, and I trotted home from the library with a bag full ‘o books. Within the pile was one very special, beautiful book titled ‘One Moose, Twenty Mice’ by Clare Beaton. Oh! How entranced we were, stretched out on the living room floor, marvelling at the fantastic hand-sewn detail of each scene and delighting in the discovery of the hidden cat on every page. Sometimes it was only his tail, other times he was peeking around a number. That book has made us devoted Clare Beaton fans forever more.

‘Hidden Hippo’ is just as wonderful. My second child, who is now 2, has also fallen madly in love with Clare Beaton’s books and especially that crafty hippo. Joan Gannij’s rhyme is completely perfect too. Books for children with skilfully crafted rhythm are always the best. The factual details, at the end of the book, about the animals and information on endangered species was much appreciated by my eldest who, if you ask him outright, is too old now for such books but give him half a chance and he’ll quietly curl up and feast his eyes on the beautiful illustrations!

Website: www.barefoot-books.com