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Owen and Mzee
Owen and Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendship
The amazing true story of the orphaned baby hippo and 130-year-old giant turtle whose remarkable friendship touched millions around the world.
The inspiring true story of two great friends, a baby hippo named Owen and a 130-yr-old giant tortoise named Mzee (Mm-ZAY). When Owen was stranded after the Dec 2004 tsunami, villagers in Kenya worked tirelessly to rescue him. Then, to everyone's amazement, the orphan hippo and the elderly tortoise adopted each other. Now they are inseparable, swimming, eating, and playing together. Adorable photos e-mailed from friend to friend quickly made them worldwide celebrities. Here is a joyous reminder that in times of trouble, friendship is stronger than the differences that too often pull us apart.
The inspiring true story of two great friends, a baby hippo named Owen and a 130-yr-old giant tortoise named Mzee (Mm-ZAY). When Owen was stranded after the Dec 2004 tsunami, villagers in Kenya worked tirelessly to rescue him. Then, to everyone's amazement, the orphan hippo and the elderly tortoise adopted each other. Now they are inseparable, swimming, eating, and playing together. Adorable photos e-mailed from friend to friend quickly made them worldwide celebrities. Here is a joyous reminder that in times of trouble, friendship is stronger than the differences that too often pull us apart.
40 pages, Hardcover
First published February 1, 2006
20 people are currently reading
868 people want to read
About the author
Isabella Hatkoff
16 books10 followersIsabella Hatkoff is the co-author of best-selling Owen & Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendship and Owen & Mzee: The Language of Friendship with her father, Craig Hatkoff, and ecologist Dr. Paula Kahumbu. Owen & Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendship was published in the spring of 2006 and became an international phenomenon. She lives in Manhattan with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 283 reviews
February 28, 2017
Animal stories like this are extraordinary. Who would've thought a hippo and a tortoise could be so close.
This is a great book for kids and adults. Full of beautiful photos of Owen and Mzee.
5*****
This is a great book for kids and adults. Full of beautiful photos of Owen and Mzee.
5*****
January 14, 2022
Yes indeed, I just love love love the gorgeous photographs, as well as the simply excellent and informative back material (on Kenya, hippopotami, aldabra tortoises etc.) presented in Owen and Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendship. And actually, for me, it is those same photographs and the back material that really "make" this story (and are the main reason why I am rating Owen & Mzee with three instead of but two stars).
For in particular the photographs of Owen and Mzee snuggling together, being together, simply being friends are really quite amazing and oh so sweetly touching, and they in my humble opinion in fact tell the story of their developing relationship better and more poignantly than Isabelle and Craig Hatkoff’s accompanying narrative. And in fact, I do tend to find the text, the printed narrative of Owen and Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendship more than a bit dry and actually even somewhat majorly dragging in places, as the words of the Hatkoffs’ narrative alone certainly do not make me feel all that emotionally engaged with and close to either Owen or Mzee. Sure, the text for Owen and Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendshipis definitely informative, but I feel that it never really goes all that much below the surface, but reads more like a dispassionate newspaper account, or perhaps a school textbook (it is a story about a unique and touching inter-species friendship, but the printed words used by the Hatkoffs, they just do not make me feel all that emotionally engaged and connected and thus do not really make this salient and amazing fact truly stand out all that much, all that obviously).
Furthermore, I also think that perhaps a bit too much of the printed information of Owen and Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendship focuses on Owen's rescue. And personally, I would definitely like more descriptions of Owen and Mzee's friendship and some more pictures of Owen and Mzee together since the post-rescue narrative somehow just feels a bit rushed, as though Isabelle and Craig Hatkoff are rather trying to quickly finish with the book. But yes, I still strongly recommend Owen and Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendship, although and in my opinion, without the wonderful photographs, I do believe that Owen and Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendship would or might be a rather dry and at times even rather tedious read. And finally, I would also tend to recommend Owen and Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendship more for older children, as younger children might well find the text-heavy words a bit daunting and distracting (but indeed, I do believe that younger children would still more than likely enjoy the photographs for Owen and Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendship, albeit that I really do wonder whether their attention span might not be overtaxed by the denseness of Isabelle and Craig Hatkoff’s writing).
For in particular the photographs of Owen and Mzee snuggling together, being together, simply being friends are really quite amazing and oh so sweetly touching, and they in my humble opinion in fact tell the story of their developing relationship better and more poignantly than Isabelle and Craig Hatkoff’s accompanying narrative. And in fact, I do tend to find the text, the printed narrative of Owen and Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendship more than a bit dry and actually even somewhat majorly dragging in places, as the words of the Hatkoffs’ narrative alone certainly do not make me feel all that emotionally engaged with and close to either Owen or Mzee. Sure, the text for Owen and Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendshipis definitely informative, but I feel that it never really goes all that much below the surface, but reads more like a dispassionate newspaper account, or perhaps a school textbook (it is a story about a unique and touching inter-species friendship, but the printed words used by the Hatkoffs, they just do not make me feel all that emotionally engaged and connected and thus do not really make this salient and amazing fact truly stand out all that much, all that obviously).
Furthermore, I also think that perhaps a bit too much of the printed information of Owen and Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendship focuses on Owen's rescue. And personally, I would definitely like more descriptions of Owen and Mzee's friendship and some more pictures of Owen and Mzee together since the post-rescue narrative somehow just feels a bit rushed, as though Isabelle and Craig Hatkoff are rather trying to quickly finish with the book. But yes, I still strongly recommend Owen and Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendship, although and in my opinion, without the wonderful photographs, I do believe that Owen and Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendship would or might be a rather dry and at times even rather tedious read. And finally, I would also tend to recommend Owen and Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendship more for older children, as younger children might well find the text-heavy words a bit daunting and distracting (but indeed, I do believe that younger children would still more than likely enjoy the photographs for Owen and Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendship, albeit that I really do wonder whether their attention span might not be overtaxed by the denseness of Isabelle and Craig Hatkoff’s writing).
February 23, 2012
"This is the true story of two great friends: a baby hippopotamus named Owen and a 130-year-old giant tortoise named Mzee.
The hippo was not always friends with the tortoise. He wasn't always known as 'Owen.' And Owen was not always famous the world over. Here is how it all happened."
So starts this wonderful telling of the friendship between this uncommon pairing.
The book does a great job covering the story from Owen's life prior to his separation from his family, to the "still happily ever after." There's lots of great information in the book, and it's all presented in a very positive light, without being disrespectful to the tragedies that did occur.
The text only says: "the sea suddenly rushed high onto the beaches, and surging waves pounded the shore. Many of the villagers' boats were damaged, and many fishermen had to be rescued."
I like this, because it allows the book to be read by younger readers who might find more explanation too scary. (there is more information in the back matter, for those wishing to read further.
The back matter also contains some information on hippos and tortoises, Kenya and Haller Park -- where Owen and Mzee live.
I also love that this book doesn't "talk down" to the reader. The author's don't oversimplify the story, and they don't pretend to know what the animals were thinking or feeling.
"Wildlife experts are still puzzled about how this unlikely friendship came to be...
The reasons are unclear. But science can't always explain what the heart already knows: our most important friends are sometimes those we least expected."
The story of the two creatures coming together is truly touching and heartwarming, as is the effort put forth by so many people to help save the stranded baby Owen. The photographs help tell the story, and I did find myself sniffling more than once :)
Definitely worth the read for the story and the fact that it's true.
The hippo was not always friends with the tortoise. He wasn't always known as 'Owen.' And Owen was not always famous the world over. Here is how it all happened."
So starts this wonderful telling of the friendship between this uncommon pairing.
The book does a great job covering the story from Owen's life prior to his separation from his family, to the "still happily ever after." There's lots of great information in the book, and it's all presented in a very positive light, without being disrespectful to the tragedies that did occur.
The text only says: "the sea suddenly rushed high onto the beaches, and surging waves pounded the shore. Many of the villagers' boats were damaged, and many fishermen had to be rescued."
I like this, because it allows the book to be read by younger readers who might find more explanation too scary. (there is more information in the back matter, for those wishing to read further.
The back matter also contains some information on hippos and tortoises, Kenya and Haller Park -- where Owen and Mzee live.
I also love that this book doesn't "talk down" to the reader. The author's don't oversimplify the story, and they don't pretend to know what the animals were thinking or feeling.
"Wildlife experts are still puzzled about how this unlikely friendship came to be...
The reasons are unclear. But science can't always explain what the heart already knows: our most important friends are sometimes those we least expected."
The story of the two creatures coming together is truly touching and heartwarming, as is the effort put forth by so many people to help save the stranded baby Owen. The photographs help tell the story, and I did find myself sniffling more than once :)
Definitely worth the read for the story and the fact that it's true.
March 10, 2012
Fabulous book. A heartwarming true story. A tremendous amount of information about Owen and Mzee and their relationship from its inception to the time the book was created, also hippos, Aldabra tortoises, the 1994 tsunami, Kenya (including Malindi and Mombasa), Haller Park where Owen and Mzee now live, and the humans who took part in Owen’s rescue after the tsunami and those who take part in the care of Owen and Mzee and other animals who live in the same sanctuary they do.
The story is told in a wonderfully engrossing manner. Although text heavy, I think it’s appropriate for all ages. Even the tsunami information is not too, too scary.
The many photographs are just priceless (and they’re the main reason I gave this book 5 stars) and they’re particularly wonderful for the majority of people who cannot make the expedition to meet Owen the hippo and Mzee the tortoise in person. Many people do come to visit them. There are two small maps too. There is also a pronunciation guide for a short list of words.
Apparently Owen is famous and was all over the news at the time of his rescue and attachment to Mzee, but I don’t remember hearing about him or Mzee until this book was brought to my attention by the Children's Books group.
It’s explained that this book was written because two of the authors, a girl and her father, were inspired by Owen and Mzee’s story. Isabella was six-years-old when she was captivated by this pair and wanted to write a book about them.
I appreciate how the authors admit that nobody knows exactly why Owen and Mzee are friends. Some conjectures are made but it’s clear they are guesses. It’s certainly an unusual bond.
This would be an excellent book for humane education, nature and science classes, and for discussions about friendships.
I didn’t expect to be as positively impressed by this book as I was. I’ve never felt much affinity with either hippos or tortoises, but I learned a bit about each species and a lot about these two individuals, and I now feel fond of them.
This book was published a half dozen years ago and I’m glad to see there is at least one follow up book because I’d like to know how Owen and Mzee are doing now. Actually, I just looked at the book description field for the book Owen and Mzee: The Language of Friendship and I see it covers only their whole first year together, so while I’d like to read that book too, I might also look up what information I can find on the internet.
4 ½ stars
The story is told in a wonderfully engrossing manner. Although text heavy, I think it’s appropriate for all ages. Even the tsunami information is not too, too scary.
The many photographs are just priceless (and they’re the main reason I gave this book 5 stars) and they’re particularly wonderful for the majority of people who cannot make the expedition to meet Owen the hippo and Mzee the tortoise in person. Many people do come to visit them. There are two small maps too. There is also a pronunciation guide for a short list of words.
Apparently Owen is famous and was all over the news at the time of his rescue and attachment to Mzee, but I don’t remember hearing about him or Mzee until this book was brought to my attention by the Children's Books group.
It’s explained that this book was written because two of the authors, a girl and her father, were inspired by Owen and Mzee’s story. Isabella was six-years-old when she was captivated by this pair and wanted to write a book about them.
I appreciate how the authors admit that nobody knows exactly why Owen and Mzee are friends. Some conjectures are made but it’s clear they are guesses. It’s certainly an unusual bond.
This would be an excellent book for humane education, nature and science classes, and for discussions about friendships.
I didn’t expect to be as positively impressed by this book as I was. I’ve never felt much affinity with either hippos or tortoises, but I learned a bit about each species and a lot about these two individuals, and I now feel fond of them.
This book was published a half dozen years ago and I’m glad to see there is at least one follow up book because I’d like to know how Owen and Mzee are doing now. Actually, I just looked at the book description field for the book Owen and Mzee: The Language of Friendship and I see it covers only their whole first year together, so while I’d like to read that book too, I might also look up what information I can find on the internet.
4 ½ stars
February 16, 2012
I knew a little about Owen and Mzee's story from various media blurbs back when--a hippo and a tortoise brought together in the aftermath of the tragic tsunami in December of 2006. I didn't realize (or remember, at least) that Mzee (which means "wise old man" in Swahili and is pronounced mm-ZAY) was such an old tortoise, and generally solitary until Owen came, nor did I know the particulars of how such a young hippo ended up on his own in the first place. I found the story of Owen's rescue heartrending and heartwarming by turns, and loved the story of this lonely baby hippo finding companionship and hope in an old tortoise! It was interesting that Mzee responded to Owen so quickly, and even seemed to help him learn things, like with eating the leaves Owen at first seemed reluctant to try. I thought the story was just wonderful, heartwarming and inspiring. I think it might be my favorite of the Hatkoff books. It shows a good blend of humans working to help save animals, but also focuses on the friendship between Owen and Mzee. I appreciated that the authors tried to give some scientific reasons behind why the two might pair up (did Owen think Mzee looked a bit like a mother hippo, with his round shape and big shell?) but also firmly believed that there was an emotional bond, too. It leaves readers with a nice message we can all take into our daily lives: "But science can't always explain what the heart already knows: Our most important friends are sometimes those we least expect." There are so many cute photos, too! Highly recommended for animal lovers young and old :-)
October 1, 2019
The heartwarming true story of the baby hippopotamus and the elderly Aldabra tortoise that became good friends and companions, after the 2004 tsunami killed the hippo's entire pod, is told in Owen & Mzee, an engaging picture-book that is also a father-daughter project, begun when co-author Isabella Hatkoff was six years old. Bringing in Dr. Paula Kahumbu, the ecologist who manages Haller Park, where Owen and Mzee now live, and photographer Peter Greste, the Hatkoffs set out to document an unusual cross-species relationship - it's rare for a mammal and a reptile to form such a close bond - and ended up producing a charming book in the process.
I enjoyed Owen & Mzee when it first came out in 2006, and have noted the subsequent rise of this kind of cross-species 'buddy book' - see also: Tarra & Bella: The Elephant and Dog Who Became Best Friends , Two Bobbies: A True Story of Hurricane Katrina, Friendship, and Survival , and Tiger Pups - so when it was chosen as one of our February selections, over in The Picture-Book Club to which I belong, where our theme this month is "friendship," I was happy to have the chance to reread and review it here. Young readers with a love for animals, or an interest in orphan stories, will enjoy this book, and its story of the unlikely bonds that arise in and after times of crisis. I know I did!
I enjoyed Owen & Mzee when it first came out in 2006, and have noted the subsequent rise of this kind of cross-species 'buddy book' - see also: Tarra & Bella: The Elephant and Dog Who Became Best Friends , Two Bobbies: A True Story of Hurricane Katrina, Friendship, and Survival , and Tiger Pups - so when it was chosen as one of our February selections, over in The Picture-Book Club to which I belong, where our theme this month is "friendship," I was happy to have the chance to reread and review it here. Young readers with a love for animals, or an interest in orphan stories, will enjoy this book, and its story of the unlikely bonds that arise in and after times of crisis. I know I did!
September 10, 2015
Morla was kind of bored and wanted to give it a 2 because the pages were not food.
But I love this book, and can't wait to give it to my godchildren.
December 19, 2010
Owen and Mzee tells the remarkable story of Owen, a baby hippo and Mzee, a 130 year old giant tortoise.
In December of 2004, a frightened baby hippo became separated from his mother and the rest of his family, when the tsunami it southeast Asia. When this baby hippo was found, he was alone on a coral reef. Although he was only 2 feet tall, he already weighed over 600lbs, which made rescuing him extremely difficult. A brave visitor names Owen Sobien was instrumental in saving Owen, and because of that is how Owen got his name.
Unable to survive on his own, and since he would be seen as an intruder if he were to be placed in pods with other hippo families, it was decided that Owen should be transferred to an animal sanctuary in Mombasa. Owen was exhausted from the long trip, however when placed at the sanctuary, he was immediately drawn to Mzee, a 130 year old tortoise. The two soon began to eat together, swim together and sleep together as well. Wildlife experts still remain puzzled by this unlikely friendship.
Owen and Mzee is an inspiring true story about finding a lasting friendship, when and where one least expects it. The story is a true testament to the fact that when tragedy strikes, the best friend just might be one we'd least expect. This is such a sweet story, and the photography by Peter Greste is also excellent. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
In December of 2004, a frightened baby hippo became separated from his mother and the rest of his family, when the tsunami it southeast Asia. When this baby hippo was found, he was alone on a coral reef. Although he was only 2 feet tall, he already weighed over 600lbs, which made rescuing him extremely difficult. A brave visitor names Owen Sobien was instrumental in saving Owen, and because of that is how Owen got his name.
Unable to survive on his own, and since he would be seen as an intruder if he were to be placed in pods with other hippo families, it was decided that Owen should be transferred to an animal sanctuary in Mombasa. Owen was exhausted from the long trip, however when placed at the sanctuary, he was immediately drawn to Mzee, a 130 year old tortoise. The two soon began to eat together, swim together and sleep together as well. Wildlife experts still remain puzzled by this unlikely friendship.
Owen and Mzee is an inspiring true story about finding a lasting friendship, when and where one least expects it. The story is a true testament to the fact that when tragedy strikes, the best friend just might be one we'd least expect. This is such a sweet story, and the photography by Peter Greste is also excellent. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
February 8, 2012
Just as the title suggests, this is indeed a remarkable story. A flood (caused by the huge tsunami of 2004) leaves Owen, a baby hippo, stranded behind while his mother and pod are pulled out into the sea. Hundreds of villagers worked together to rescue the frightened and angered baby Owen. Dr. Paula Kahumbu and Stephen Tuei welcomed Owen into their animal sanctuary—Haller Park. Mzee, a 130 years old Aldabra tortoise, was already living in Haller Park but he was not friendly. However, Owen immediately sought comfort from Mzee and it wasn’t long before Mzee was just as fond of Owen. Owen was able to cope with the loss of his mother and pod because of the unlikely and remarkable bond he was able to form with Mzee.
This true story made headlines and whirled up a media frenzy, I am not sure how I was kept out of the loop. It is easy to see how this story fascinated the world. It is amazing how the villagers came together to rescue Owen after their village was hit hard by the tsunami and very touching that Mzee was able to offer him a friendship after losing his family. There is a miracle to be found in every tragedy.
My five year old loved the story so much that we searched the internet for more information and I came across this website devoted to their story and thought I would share—enjoy! http://www.owenandmzee.com/omweb/
This true story made headlines and whirled up a media frenzy, I am not sure how I was kept out of the loop. It is easy to see how this story fascinated the world. It is amazing how the villagers came together to rescue Owen after their village was hit hard by the tsunami and very touching that Mzee was able to offer him a friendship after losing his family. There is a miracle to be found in every tragedy.
My five year old loved the story so much that we searched the internet for more information and I came across this website devoted to their story and thought I would share—enjoy! http://www.owenandmzee.com/omweb/
July 25, 2022
This is a wonderful story about resilience, caring and friendship. The sad story of Owen and his family during the tsunami turned into a story of hope and love.
Our girls have read a couple stories about these two unique animals as well as seen documentaries about them and they just love the story.
This story was selected as one of the books for the February 2012 - Friendship reads at the Picture-Book Club in the Children's Books Group here at Goodreads.
Our girls have read a couple stories about these two unique animals as well as seen documentaries about them and they just love the story.
This story was selected as one of the books for the February 2012 - Friendship reads at the Picture-Book Club in the Children's Books Group here at Goodreads.
September 3, 2018
Owen & Mzee The True Story of a Remarkable Friendship is an amazing true story about Owen, an hippopotamus, and Mzee, a tortoise, and how they became friends and the villagers who adored them. A great story for explaining what friendship is. The photos by Peter Greste were an added touch
May 18, 2017
It's nice to know that something good came out of the awful tsunami of 2004.
November 8, 2010
This true story is written by Craig Hatkoff, his daughter Isabella and Dr. Paula Kahumbu. The book begins with a letter to readers from the author and his daughter. Craig Hatkoff and his daughter became interested in this story when they read it in the newspaper. They contacted Dr. Paula Kahumbu who is the manager at the park where Owen and Mzee currently reside. They worked together, along with the photographer to write this book to inform a bigger audience about the special friendship between these two animals. The photographs are an integral part of the book because they allow the reader to see for themselves the bond that these creatures formed.
This book will be an enjoyable read for families and the independent reader. The story is about a baby hippo whom in December of 2004, was washed downstream during a tsunami in Southeast Asia but survived and made an unusual new friend. Many people attempted to rescue the hippo from the water but one man, Owen, was successful at capturing the hippo. Soon, this courageous hippo was respectfully named Owen, after his savior. Owen was sent to a protected wildlife area since he had no family. He soon befriended a 130-year-old tortoise who was usually not so friendly. The bond between these two animals is one that should inspire humans to befriend anyone, no matter their age or appearance. I read this book to my first grade students, albeit not in its entirety as it is lengthy, and they enjoyed it. We had a follow-up discussion about friendship and how can befriend everyone we meet. Reading additional books about friendship would be a great way to expand upon the concept of friendship. Reading this with younger students will require some paraphrasing, as it consists of a lot of text that may be overwhelming for the students. Older students will love the story and interesting facts incorporated into this true story of friendship.
This book will be an enjoyable read for families and the independent reader. The story is about a baby hippo whom in December of 2004, was washed downstream during a tsunami in Southeast Asia but survived and made an unusual new friend. Many people attempted to rescue the hippo from the water but one man, Owen, was successful at capturing the hippo. Soon, this courageous hippo was respectfully named Owen, after his savior. Owen was sent to a protected wildlife area since he had no family. He soon befriended a 130-year-old tortoise who was usually not so friendly. The bond between these two animals is one that should inspire humans to befriend anyone, no matter their age or appearance. I read this book to my first grade students, albeit not in its entirety as it is lengthy, and they enjoyed it. We had a follow-up discussion about friendship and how can befriend everyone we meet. Reading additional books about friendship would be a great way to expand upon the concept of friendship. Reading this with younger students will require some paraphrasing, as it consists of a lot of text that may be overwhelming for the students. Older students will love the story and interesting facts incorporated into this true story of friendship.
February 10, 2012
Owen & Mzee: The True Story Of A Remarkable Friendship by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff, Paula Kahumbu, photograped by Peter Greste follows the rescue of baby hippo Owen and his friendship with Mzee, an Aldabra toroise.
After being separated from his mother and stranded after the 2004 tsunami, Owen is rescued by villagers and taken to Haller Park, an animal sanctuary in Mombasa, Kenya where he is adopted. There, Owen meets and bonds with Mzee, formerly an unsociable 130 year old Aldabra toroise.
Peter Greste's captioned photographs are excellent and are a strength of the book. My favorite images are the cover illustrations, touching noses, Owen on coral reef, Owen in truck, snuggling, Owen eating, nuzzling, & Owen dozing.
This is a wonderful, true cross-species friendship story. The animal photographs are wonderful. I do wish there were more Owen and Mzee pictures and a bit more hard science, such as feeding schedules, weight gains for Owen, etc. Most kids will probably love this, and many may be interested enough to go to the website to learn more. The themes of the power of friendship and of working together to help animals are admirable. This is highly recommended for school and public library collections.
For ages 6 to 9, animals, Kenya-Africa, ecology, friendship, nature, family, connections, identity, Aldabra toroise, hippos and fans of Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff, Paula Kahumbu, and Peter Greste.
After being separated from his mother and stranded after the 2004 tsunami, Owen is rescued by villagers and taken to Haller Park, an animal sanctuary in Mombasa, Kenya where he is adopted. There, Owen meets and bonds with Mzee, formerly an unsociable 130 year old Aldabra toroise.
Peter Greste's captioned photographs are excellent and are a strength of the book. My favorite images are the cover illustrations, touching noses, Owen on coral reef, Owen in truck, snuggling, Owen eating, nuzzling, & Owen dozing.
This is a wonderful, true cross-species friendship story. The animal photographs are wonderful. I do wish there were more Owen and Mzee pictures and a bit more hard science, such as feeding schedules, weight gains for Owen, etc. Most kids will probably love this, and many may be interested enough to go to the website to learn more. The themes of the power of friendship and of working together to help animals are admirable. This is highly recommended for school and public library collections.
For ages 6 to 9, animals, Kenya-Africa, ecology, friendship, nature, family, connections, identity, Aldabra toroise, hippos and fans of Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff, Paula Kahumbu, and Peter Greste.
October 30, 2022
I decided to use this one when transitioning to a new topic with my student, who was interested in animals and nonfiction. This book is a good one to start with in terms of looking at animal friendships and at the needs of animal young because it contains a lot of research and speculation on why things happened the way they did.
The book contains facts about Kenya, Malindi (the city where Owen was found), hippos, and Aldabra tortoises. However, it does not contain a bibliography or any further reading, which is disappointing since all four of these topics are less known to readers.
Despite not containing further reading, I was able to use Owen and Mzee as a starting point for nonfiction about animal friendships and animal needs. Because the story and the book itself are well-known by now, there is a lot of children's literature (articles as well as books) that reference it when talking about animal relationships, or that are even prefaced by the Hatkoffs. This book is good for building background knowledge about this topic and some elementary biology topics in general, since it is referenced elsewhere and can be something students can connect to.
Read my full review on my Goodreads account for children's books.
The book contains facts about Kenya, Malindi (the city where Owen was found), hippos, and Aldabra tortoises. However, it does not contain a bibliography or any further reading, which is disappointing since all four of these topics are less known to readers.
Despite not containing further reading, I was able to use Owen and Mzee as a starting point for nonfiction about animal friendships and animal needs. Because the story and the book itself are well-known by now, there is a lot of children's literature (articles as well as books) that reference it when talking about animal relationships, or that are even prefaced by the Hatkoffs. This book is good for building background knowledge about this topic and some elementary biology topics in general, since it is referenced elsewhere and can be something students can connect to.
Read my full review on my Goodreads account for children's books.
March 9, 2013
This is simply a great heartwarming and TRUE story of a 130-year-old giant tortoise named Mzee and an orphaned baby hippo named Owen.
As a result of a tsunami in December 2004, water flooded Owen’s home and killed his parents and most of his pod on the east coast of Africa. After a few days, Owen was stranded alone on a sandy coral reef unable to survive on his own. With a lot of effort, time and cooperation the people of the village were able to hoist the 600 pound baby hippo into a pick up truck and taken to an animal sanctuary, Haller Park, about fifty miles away. His life was changed when he was placed in a part of the park with Mzee. Mzee wasn’t very friendly and preferred time alone. Owen was initially drawn to Mzee, who wasn’t happy about it. As the days went on, Mzee slowly didn’t mind Owen snuggling up to him. Mzee took over the role as his mother, and now they are inseparable! The swim together, eat together, drink together, play together, sleep next to each other, and rub noses. The photographs are perfect and really show the bond between Owen and Mzee. You can’t help but be touched by their story.
This book is great to read aloud for any student, but fitting for grades K-3. It would be great to discuss friendship, enduring hard times, units on animals, or the effects of natural disasters.
“But science can’t always explain what the heart already knows: Our most important friends are sometimes those we least expected.”
As a result of a tsunami in December 2004, water flooded Owen’s home and killed his parents and most of his pod on the east coast of Africa. After a few days, Owen was stranded alone on a sandy coral reef unable to survive on his own. With a lot of effort, time and cooperation the people of the village were able to hoist the 600 pound baby hippo into a pick up truck and taken to an animal sanctuary, Haller Park, about fifty miles away. His life was changed when he was placed in a part of the park with Mzee. Mzee wasn’t very friendly and preferred time alone. Owen was initially drawn to Mzee, who wasn’t happy about it. As the days went on, Mzee slowly didn’t mind Owen snuggling up to him. Mzee took over the role as his mother, and now they are inseparable! The swim together, eat together, drink together, play together, sleep next to each other, and rub noses. The photographs are perfect and really show the bond between Owen and Mzee. You can’t help but be touched by their story.
This book is great to read aloud for any student, but fitting for grades K-3. It would be great to discuss friendship, enduring hard times, units on animals, or the effects of natural disasters.
“But science can’t always explain what the heart already knows: Our most important friends are sometimes those we least expected.”
May 8, 2008
This is a remarkable story of an unlikely relationship between a 130-year-old tortoise and a baby hippopotamus.
After a devastating tsunami off the coast of Kenya in December of 2004, a 1-year-old hippo (later named Owen) became entangled in the sea grass in the sandy coral reef. Hundreds of villagers struggled to pull the frightened, angry hippo to shore.
Once he was safe, he went to live at Haller Park, an animal sanctuary that immediately adopted him because he was too young to survive on his own. When he was released into his new habitat, Owen scrambled over to Mzee (mm-ZAY), a giant Aldabra tortoise, and lay down next to him.
Mzee hissed and crawled away, but he couldn't outrun a baby hippo, and Owen wouldn't give up. Over the next few days Mzee accepted Owen's friendship, and from that point forward, they were never separated. Mzee and Owen eat together, swim together and sleep next to each other. They have even been seen rubbing noses.
Wildlife experts are still perplexed by Owen and Mzee's affectionate friendship; does Owen think Mzee is his mother? Does Mzee think Owen is another tortoise? There are many questions only Mzee and Owen can answer. The pictures in this book are phenomenal; to see a tortoise that is bigger than a hippopotamus is quite a sight to see!
After a devastating tsunami off the coast of Kenya in December of 2004, a 1-year-old hippo (later named Owen) became entangled in the sea grass in the sandy coral reef. Hundreds of villagers struggled to pull the frightened, angry hippo to shore.
Once he was safe, he went to live at Haller Park, an animal sanctuary that immediately adopted him because he was too young to survive on his own. When he was released into his new habitat, Owen scrambled over to Mzee (mm-ZAY), a giant Aldabra tortoise, and lay down next to him.
Mzee hissed and crawled away, but he couldn't outrun a baby hippo, and Owen wouldn't give up. Over the next few days Mzee accepted Owen's friendship, and from that point forward, they were never separated. Mzee and Owen eat together, swim together and sleep next to each other. They have even been seen rubbing noses.
Wildlife experts are still perplexed by Owen and Mzee's affectionate friendship; does Owen think Mzee is his mother? Does Mzee think Owen is another tortoise? There are many questions only Mzee and Owen can answer. The pictures in this book are phenomenal; to see a tortoise that is bigger than a hippopotamus is quite a sight to see!
June 21, 2011
This was a very cute story of an unlikely friendship!
When a tsunami hit Owen's home and killed his hippo mama, he was rescued by people and brought to an animal park in Kenya. He wasn't a happy camper until he met his turtle buddy, Mzee. The book stated that they aren't really sure why these two animals hang out a lot, but they are happy together.
I would definitely read this to a class. It could teach the kids about differences, enduring hard times, and being a friend when someone could really use a friend. Also the photographs are just too cute and the story is written well for a young audience! All around cute and great!
When a tsunami hit Owen's home and killed his hippo mama, he was rescued by people and brought to an animal park in Kenya. He wasn't a happy camper until he met his turtle buddy, Mzee. The book stated that they aren't really sure why these two animals hang out a lot, but they are happy together.
I would definitely read this to a class. It could teach the kids about differences, enduring hard times, and being a friend when someone could really use a friend. Also the photographs are just too cute and the story is written well for a young audience! All around cute and great!
February 5, 2017
This is a nonfiction picture book for kids. It tells the wonderful and heart warming true story of a baby hippo, Owen, and a giant tortoise, Mzee. Owen was rescued after a tsunami in Kenya in 2004 and was sent to an animal sanctuary where he and Mzee became best friends. They adopted one another and did everything together. The book has adorable photos of them enjoying each others' company. Despite their considerable differences, their friendship was great and unbreakable.
Kids (and adults too!) will love this beautiful and happy story. Their friendship transcends their differences in species and appearance.
Kids (and adults too!) will love this beautiful and happy story. Their friendship transcends their differences in species and appearance.
April 7, 2010
By now, most animal lovers are familiar with this true story. Owen, a baby hippo orphaned by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, was rescued and placed in an animal sanctuary. There he bonded with a 130-year-old giant tortoise, Mzee.
The story is commemorated in this colorful children’s book. Owen and Mzee’s tale helps bring home the message that all animals have feelings—including those who are unfamiliar to us or unusual-looking. This would be a nice read-aloud choice for humane education teachers.
The story is commemorated in this colorful children’s book. Owen and Mzee’s tale helps bring home the message that all animals have feelings—including those who are unfamiliar to us or unusual-looking. This would be a nice read-aloud choice for humane education teachers.
January 4, 2009
I forget where I first saw this, but I immediately thought it was too cute to resist. While at the Auburn Library for story time, I looked up and there it was, so I took it out. I really thought the true story was sweet, but the photographs really make the book.
June 24, 2016
This is a charming true story about the unlikely friendship between an orphaned baby hippo and an old, cantankerous tortoise. When a flood wiped out Owen's herd, he was befriended by Mzee, and the two became inseparable. The full-color photographs are amazing.
May 11, 2020
This is a wonderful book for all ages! It shows the background of the relationship between Owen, a hippo, and Mzee, a giant tortoise, in Kenya. It emphasizes prosocial actions such as helping others and being friends.
January 3, 2008
A young hippo, orphaned by the tidal wave of 2004, forms an unlikely friendship with a stubborn old tortoise. True story.
November 20, 2008
This book taught me that differences shouldn't stop you.
March 2, 2012
For animal lovers and a real touching read. 1/06
It still brings tears to my eyes. 3/2/12
It still brings tears to my eyes. 3/2/12
February 13, 2017
I thought this was a great story.
August 16, 2017
This is the true story of my favorite cross-species relationship - a hippo and a tortoise.
January 5, 2018
Great story of friendship between an unlikely pair. Read it today to my 3rd grade class.
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September 22, 2019This is an amazing story of friendship found in the most unlikely places. A great book to read with a small group and have a discussion based on needs.
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