
Written by Marion Dane Bauer · Illustrated by John Butler
A baby hippo finds unexpected friendship after a tsunami changes everything.
After a devastating tsunami separates Owen the baby hippo from his mother, he finds solace in an unlikely friendship with Mzee, a wise old tortoise. As Owen navigates his new world, he discovers that family can be found in the most unexpected places. Will this newfound bond help him heal and embrace a new beginning? Dive into this touching tale of resilience and the power of friendship.
Owen the baby hippo and his mama were best friends. They loved to play hide-and-seek on the banks of the Sabaki River in Africa. That was all before the tsunami came and washed Owen’s world away. But after the rain stops, Owen befriends Mzee, a grayish brown tortoise. He plays with him, snuggles with him, and decides he just might turn out to be his best friend and a brand-new mama. Inspired by the tsunami of 2004, acclaimed storyteller Marion Dane Bauer and celebrated illustrator John Butler depict this heartwarming true tale of healing, adoption, and rebirth – with splendid illustrations and oodles of love.
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