Ann Bonwill

This book is about a friendship between a hippo and a bird and how the hippo wants to be unique and the bird wants to be like the hippo. Throughout the book we see the hippo showing off his uniqueness as well as getting up set that each time he does something the bird copies it. They go swimming together and get complimented on their team work. They figure out that being a team is much better than being alone. In the end the bird and the hippo go to get ice-cream where the hippo changes his mind just to be unique.… (meer)

I absolutely despise the illustrations, except, I love the wallpaper designs. I love that the dad does the girls' hair before ballet class.  The mixed message is ridiculous:  this is about a girl who wants to express herself more freely, exuberantly, than her classmates.  But until near the end, we just think it's about a girl who is clumsy, or rhythmically-challenged.  So, in other words, it is not effective therapy for me.  And in so far as that done-to-death theme, I recommend the Tacky the Penguin stories instead of this.… (meer)

Summary: This story is about Hugo, a hippo who performs water ballet. He has a friend, Bella, who is a bird but is copying everything that Hugo does. Hugo does not like this and refers to Bella as a "copycat". But, when Bella follows Hugo to his recital and performs with him they are called the most unique synchronized swimming team. They are both very pleased with this, and realize the importance of being unique but also of coming together to make something new and unique.

Personal reflection: I know that when I was younger it was always a bad thing to be a "copycat". However, now that I am older I have learned it is a sign of flattery and that people are unique but can also combine talents to make something incredible.

Class use: I would use this book to teach how copying is a sign of flattery and the importance of working together instead of just having the student focus on themselves only.… (meer)