A Story for Hippo
Title of Book: A Story for Hippo
Author: Simon Puttock
Illustrator: Alison Bartlett
Publisher: Scholastic Press (September 1, 2001)
ISBN: 978-0439262194
Audience: Ages 4 – 9
Summary of Book: This book is a story of two friends, Hippo and Monkey. Hippo and Monkey share in daily storytelling. Hippo tells Monkey that she is getting old and that she will die. When this time is upon them, it leaves Monkey grieving and wondering who would tell him stories and laugh at his jokes.
Central Literary Elements: The text of this book presents itself in a simple format. A Story for Hippo answers difficult questions in a way that children of all ages can understand and shows us how to keep the spirit of a person alive forever.The illustrations are bold and colorful although they have a chalky feel. They effectively communicate the emotions of the story.
Perspective on gender/race/culture/economics/abilities: This book does not raise any concerns in respect to any type of status.
Theological Conversation Partners: Psalms 30:5, Jeremiah 31:13, 1 Thessalonians 3:7
Faith Talk Questions:
- How does our faith help fill the void created by a loss?
- Hippo tried to prepare Monkey for her death. Hhow do we as humans prepare ourselves for the loss of loved one?
- Is an unexpected death of a loved one less difficult emotionally? Why or why not?
- What memories do you cherish of loved ones that have died?
A Story for Hippo by Storypath is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
