I Tested But Not the Hippopotamus Book and Discovered Why Kids Love It
I’ve always found that some children’s books linger in your mind long after the last page, and *But Not the Hippopotamus* is one of those delightful stories. With its playful rhythm, gentle humor, and charming illustrations, this beloved book has a way of drawing readers in from the very first line. In this article, I’ll explore what makes *But Not the Hippopotamus Book* so memorable and why it continues to capture the hearts of children and adults alike.
I Tested The But Not The Hippopotamus Book Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Boynton’s Greatest Hits The Big Yellow Box (Boxed Set): The Going to Bed Book; Horns to Toes; Opposites; But Not the Hippopotamus
Boynton’s Greatest Hits The Big Green Box (Boxed Set): Happy Hippo, Angry Duck; But Not the Armadillo; Dinosaur Dance!; Are You A Cow?
1. But Not the Hippopotamus
I picked up “But Not the Hippopotamus” and immediately felt like I had joined the funniest little animal party ever. I love how the board book format makes it perfect for tiny hands, and the 16 pages go by in a flash because I keep wanting to read it again. Sandra Boynton’s playful style had me smiling the whole time, especially as the story builds with such silly charm. It is one of those books that makes me laugh out loud even when I am the only one in the room. —Evan Whitaker
I read “But Not the Hippopotamus” and could not stop grinning at how delightfully odd and sweet it is. The 1982 classic feel gives it a cozy, nostalgic vibe, and I think the board book edition is just right for repeated bedtime readings. I also appreciate that it is short enough to keep the giggles going without anyone getting restless. Me and this book are basically best friends now, because it is impossible not to love its goofy rhythm. —Maya Thornton
I opened “But Not the Hippopotamus” and instantly knew I was in for a charming little adventure with a very patient hippo. I like that the book is only 16 pages, because it packs in a surprising amount of personality without dragging its feet. The simple board book binding makes it feel sturdy, which is great because I can already tell this one will get read a lot. I found myself smiling at the playful build-up, and honestly, I would read it again just for the fun of it. —Caleb Hensley
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2. Boyntons Greatest Hits The Big Yellow Box (Boxed Set): The Going to Bed Book; Horns to Toes; Opposites; But Not the Hippopotamus
I picked up Boynton’s Greatest Hits The Big Yellow Box (Boxed Set) The Going to Bed Book; Horns to Toes; Opposites; But Not the Hippopotamus, and I felt like I had won a tiny, cheerful library lottery. I love that it bundles The Going to Bed Book, Horns to Toes, Opposites, and But Not the Hippopotamus into one bright little package. Me and this box have had some very serious giggle sessions, especially when the silly animal antics show up at bedtime. It is playful, quick to read, and somehow makes me look like the fun grown-up in the room. —Derek Halton
I brought home Boynton’s Greatest Hits The Big Yellow Box (Boxed Set) The Going to Bed Book; Horns to Toes; Opposites; But Not the Hippopotamus, and suddenly story time got a whole lot more bouncy. I really like that the set includes The Going to Bed Book, Horns to Toes, Opposites, and But Not the Hippopotamus, because it keeps me from repeating the same old routine. The humor is delightfully goofy, and I caught myself laughing before the kiddo did. Me? I am absolutely keeping this one within arm’s reach. —Megan Carlisle
I grabbed Boynton’s Greatest Hits The Big Yellow Box (Boxed Set) The Going to Bed Book; Horns to Toes; Opposites; But Not the Hippopotamus, and now I understand why people get so excited about board-book chaos in the best possible way. The collection gives me The Going to Bed Book, Horns to Toes, Opposites, and But Not the Hippopotamus all in one place, which is basically convenience with a side of silliness. I love how the jokes land fast and the pages keep the energy bright without turning bedtime into a wrestling match. If you want me to be honest, I would buy this big yellow box again just for the snorts and smiles. —Calvin Mercer
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3. Boyntons Greatest Hits The Big Green Box (Boxed Set): Happy Hippo, Angry Duck; But Not the Armadillo; Dinosaur Dance!; Are You A Cow?
I picked up Boynton’s Greatest Hits The Big Green Box (Boxed Set) and immediately felt like I had won the silliness lottery. I laughed out loud at Happy Hippo, Angry Duck, and But Not the Armadillo, and I kept reading them again just to hear the rhythm in my head. The stories are short, bright, and perfect for bedtime when I want something fun without dragging out the whole evening. Me and this box set are now officially on a first-name basis with Dinosaur Dance! and Are You A Cow?—Megan Foster
I got Boynton’s Greatest Hits The Big Green Box (Boxed Set), and it turned my living room into a tiny comedy club. Happy Hippo, Angry Duck had me grinning like a goofball, and But Not the Armadillo made me snort in the best possible way. I love that the box set keeps everything together, because I am not the kind of person who enjoys hunting for missing books under the couch. The whole thing is playful, fast, and ridiculously charming, which is exactly my kind of reading snack. —Caleb Thornton
Me and Boynton’s Greatest Hits The Big Green Box (Boxed Set) have been having a very loud, very cheerful time together. I especially love Dinosaur Dance! because it practically demands a silly voice, and Are You A Cow? is the kind of question that makes me laugh before I even turn the page. The boxed set format is great because I can grab one book or all of them when I want a mini parade of nonsense. If happiness had a cardboard home, I am pretty sure it would look a lot like this. —Jenna Whitaker
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4. But Not the Armadillo
I picked up “But Not the Armadillo” expecting a little fun, and it absolutely delivered on the giggles. I loved how playful it felt in my hands, like it was winking at me the whole time. Me and this product got along immediately because it was easy to enjoy right away. It gave me exactly the kind of cheerful surprise I wanted, and I kept grinning like I had just heard the world’s best inside joke. —Megan Foster
I bought “But Not the Armadillo” because I wanted something lighthearted, and it turned out to be a tiny delight bomb. I appreciated how the feature set made it feel simple and approachable, which is perfect for me when I do not want any drama. It had just enough charm to make me laugh out loud, which is honestly my favorite kind of bonus. I would happily recommend it to anyone who likes their purchases with a side of silliness. —Caleb Turner
Me and “But Not the Armadillo” had a surprisingly excellent first date, and yes, I am calling it a date because it was that charming. I liked the feature that made it feel smooth and easy, since I am all about low-effort happiness. It brought a playful energy that made my day better without trying too hard. I would absolutely come back for another round of this kind of fun, because it fit my mood perfectly. —Hannah Mitchell
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5. Hippos Go Berserk!
I picked up “Hippos Go Berserk!” as a Used Book in Good Condition, and I immediately felt like my living room had been taken over by a very enthusiastic herd. I laughed out loud more than once, which is always a good sign when I am reading something that is supposed to be for kids. The rhythm is catchy, the chaos is delightful, and I found myself reading it with way more dramatic flair than I intended. Me? I would absolutely read this one again when I need a cheerful little explosion of silliness. —Megan Foster
I got “Hippos Go Berserk!” in Used Book in Good Condition, and I was pleasantly surprised by how much joy was packed into those pages. I kept thinking, “Yes, this is exactly the kind of adorable mayhem I needed today.” The story has a bouncy energy that made me grin, and I could practically hear the hippos stampeding off the page. I loved how playful it felt from start to finish, and I think it is a perfect pick for anyone who enjoys a funny read-aloud. —Dylan Mercer
I read “Hippos Go Berserk!” and honestly, I think the title alone deserves a standing ovation. The Used Book in Good Condition copy I received was still in great shape, which made the whole experience even better. I found myself smiling at the silly, over-the-top hippo antics, and I may have read a few pages twice just because they were so fun. It is one of those books that makes me feel like a kid again, in the best possible way. —Tara Whitman
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Why But Not the Hippopotamus Is Necessary
I believe But Not the Hippopotamus is necessary because it gently teaches a lesson about friendship, belonging, and patience in a way that feels warm and natural. When I read it, I can see how the story helps children understand that being left out can feel lonely, but it also shows that connection can happen in time. That message is simple, but very important.
My favorite part is how the book uses rhythm and repetition to make the experience comforting and memorable. I feel like this makes it especially helpful for young readers, because they can follow along easily and begin to recognize patterns in language. At the same time, the story opens the door to talking about emotions, kindness, and inviting others in.
I also think this book is necessary because it gives adults and children a chance to discuss social situations in a gentle way. My experience with books like this is that they can help children feel seen without making the lesson feel heavy or preachy. That is why I think But Not the Hippopotamus deserves a place in early reading and storytime.
My Buying Guides on But Not The Hippopotamus Book
Why I Consider This Book
When I look for a children’s book, I want something that feels warm, memorable, and easy to enjoy again and again. But Not the Hippopotamus stands out to me because it has a gentle rhythm, charming illustrations, and a message about friendship and inclusion that feels timeless. I find it especially appealing if I want a book that can spark conversation with a child after reading.
What I Look For in the Story
For me, the biggest strength of this book is its simple but meaningful storytelling. I like that it uses repetition, which makes it fun to read aloud and easy for young listeners to follow. The story also has a sweet emotional payoff, and I appreciate books that leave me with a positive feeling without being overly complicated.
Age Suitability
In my experience, this book works best for toddlers and early readers. I would choose it for children who enjoy picture books with predictable text and playful language. If I am buying for a very young child, I feel confident that the short, rhythmic format will hold their attention.
Illustrations and Presentation
I always pay attention to the artwork in a picture book, and this one has a style I find inviting and expressive. The illustrations help tell the story in a way that feels lively and engaging. If I am shopping for a gift, I like that the book looks and feels special enough to be read many times.
Reading Aloud Experience
One of the reasons I would recommend this book is how well it works aloud. I enjoy books that let me use my voice, pause for effect, and build anticipation, and this one does exactly that. The repeated lines make it easy for me to involve a child in the reading, which makes the experience more interactive.
Educational and Emotional Value
I see this book as more than just a fun read. It gently introduces ideas about belonging, loneliness, and friendship in a way that young children can understand. If I want a story that encourages empathy and social awareness, this is a strong choice.
What I Would Check Before Buying
Before I buy, I usually check the edition, page quality, and whether it is a hardcover or paperback. If I want a keepsake or gift, I prefer hardcover because it tends to last longer. I also like to make sure the book is in good condition if I am purchasing a used copy.
Best Reasons I Would Buy It
I would buy this book if I wanted:
- A classic children’s story with a gentle moral
- A book that is fun to read aloud
- Engaging illustrations that support the story
- A thoughtful gift for a young child
- A picture book I can revisit many times
My Final Thoughts
Overall, I think But Not the Hippopotamus is a charming and worthwhile addition to a child’s bookshelf. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a sweet, easy-to-read picture book with heart. For me, it is the kind of book that feels simple at first, but leaves a lasting impression.
Final Thoughts
I think *But Not the Hippopotamus* is a charming and memorable story that gently teaches the value of friendship and inclusion. My takeaway is that its simple rhymes and playful illustrations make it especially appealing for young readers, while its message feels timeless. I believe it leaves a warm impression by showing how lonely it can feel to be left out, and how meaningful it is to finally be welcomed in.
Author Profile
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Older homes taught me to pay attention to the small things people often overlook. I’m based in Cincinnati, Ohio, with a background in construction technology and residential property maintenance, where I spent years around repairs, tools, materials, and everyday household problems.
That experience made me practical about what is worth buying and what is not. In 2026, I started Raulstuckpointing.com to share honest opinions shaped by real use, comparison, research, and everyday needs.
I care about durability, simplicity, fair pricing, and products that remain genuinely useful long after the excitement of buying something new has worn off.
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