Books About Hippopotamuses

The Best Hippopotamuses Books for Kids

Looking for our other guide?

Explore our editor-reviewed guide to Hippo and Rhino Books, featuring 15 favorites and recommendations by age.

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Looking for excellent children's books about hippopotamuses? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

The Shortlist

Our 8 Favorite Books About Hippopotamuses

Rhino vs. Hippo
Sale price
$474
Chapter Book · Ages 6–9 · 2014

Rhino vs. Hippo

A rhinoceros and a hippopotamus fight over a watering hole

32 pages· 1,508 words· Est. 17 min read
4.3 Goodreads · 396 ratings
$4.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Dive into the wild clash between a rhino and a hippo. Explore their anatomy, behavior, and strengths as these titans face off. Who will emerge victorious in this thrilling animal encounter? Discover fascinating facts and vivid illustrations that bring this epic battle to life, satisfying the curiosity of animal enthusiasts everywhere.
A Hippo in Our Yard
Sale price
$759
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2016

A Hippo in Our Yard

Sally's family doubts her wild animal sightings until the zoo's escape is revealed.

32 pages· 137 words· Est. 2 min read-aloud
3.4 Goodreads · 131 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Sally insists there's a hippo in the yard, but her family dismisses her claims. Undeterred, she feeds the hippo and discovers more animals: a tiger, koalas, and zebras. As her family remains skeptical, Sally knows the truth—escaped zoo animals are hiding in plain sight. Will her family finally believe her when they see the evidence? This delightful tale, with lively illustrations, captures the humor and surprise of Sally's adventure, inviting young readers to explore a world where imagination meets reality.
Fiona on the Swings
Sale price
$958
Picture Book · Ages 2–5 · 2023

Fiona on the Swings

A little hippo can't reach her swing until her big brother lends a hand.

32 pages
3.6 Goodreads · 19 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Hardcover
Summary: Fiona races to the swing set first, but her swing hangs too high to reach. She asks her big brother Herbert for help, and with his boost she gets comfy and swings. A small-format picture book about siblings helping each other.
One Whole Hippopotamus
Sale price
$1597
Picture Book · Ages 2–4 · 2026

One Whole Hippopotamus

Look again: one whole thing can be split, sorted and patterned in surprising ways.

52 pages
3.9 Goodreads · 79 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: A playful concept book that invites young children to look closely at colors, shapes, patterns and parts of a whole. Rhythmic, read-aloud language and bold design turn sorting and simple fractions into a game, showing that even familiar things can be seen in new ways each time the book is read. A companion to Circle Under Berry and Some of These Are Snails.
Harry Gets Ready for School
Sale price
$574
Picture Book · Ages 6–7 · 1991

Harry Gets Ready for School

By Harriet Ziefert, Mavis Smith (Illustrator)

Harry races against time to complete his back-to-school checklist.

32 pages· 161 words· Est. 2 min read-aloud
3.4 Goodreads · 55 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Harry's to-do list is daunting: a checkup, dentist visit, and haircut, all before school starts. Can he tackle these tasks in time? Follow Harry's whirlwind adventure as he navigates the chaos of pre-school preparations, each errand bringing its own set of surprises. Will he manage to get everything done, or will unexpected challenges throw him off course? Dive into this engaging tale perfect for young readers ready to explore longer sentences and simple dialogue, as Harry learns the value of preparation and perseverance.
Picture Book · 2001

Billie the Hippo

A hippopotamus raised by a caretaker at an African animal orphanage grows up torn between human companionship and her instinct to join wild herds.

858 words
3.0 Goodreads · 1 ratings
Unknown Binding
Hippos
Sale price
$1498
Picture Book · Ages 4–6 · 2024

Hippos

Discover the secret lives of hippos in this engaging, educational adventure.

32 pages· 715 words· Est. 6 min read-aloud
4.4 Goodreads · 16 ratings
$15.99Save 6%
Library Binding
Summary: Dive into the world of hippos with this captivating guide for young readers. Explore their mysterious lives, from their massive teeth to their swimming skills and unique skin. Packed with stunning photos and fun facts, this book not only entertains but also enhances reading skills. Perfect for budding animal enthusiasts eager to learn more about these fascinating creatures.
Meet Fiona the Hippo
Sale price
$574
Picture Book · Ages 4–7 · 2021

Meet Fiona the Hippo

By Zondervan, Richard Cowdrey (Illustrator), Donald Wu (Illustrator) · Fiona the Hippo series

A baby hippo named Fiona grows and develops with the help of her caregivers at the Cincinnati Zoo.

32 pages· 466 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud
4.2 Goodreads · 120 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Fiona, a hippo born six weeks early, captures hearts worldwide as she learns to eat, walk, and swim at the Cincinnati Zoo. Her journey from a fragile newborn to a thriving hippo is a testament to courage and perseverance. This delightful tale invites young readers to discover how Fiona's fearless spirit turned her into an internet sensation. Will her spunk and determination help her overcome the odds and become a healthy, happy hippopotamus? Dive into this inspiring story of resilience and adventure, perfect for children eager to learn about animals and the power of perseverance.