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The Hippo Who Hated To Fight
Hippos are famous for fighting and biting. But Kuno the hippo is unique. He refuses to fight even though he always gets teased. "The Hippo Who Hated To Fight" is the sweet, fun, inspiring story of a hippo brave enough to be himself. Kuno leaves his family and friends to search for the love, kindness, and acceptance he is missing. Colorful and creatively illustrated and written for kids ages 4-9, it teaches them fun facts about hippos and elephants and that it's cool to be different-you just need to find your herd.
40 pages, Paperback
Published July 14, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
July 11, 2024
Lovely little Kuno doesn't want to be like every other Hippo. He wants to be kind and not bite others. What a lovely story. Kuno meets some sweet friends and I found this story full of facts regarding hippos and the other animals involved.
Good fun, informative and the illustrations are fantastic!
Many thanks to Deborah Giustini@stressfreebookmarketing.com for an ARC.
Good fun, informative and the illustrations are fantastic!
Many thanks to Deborah Giustini@stressfreebookmarketing.com for an ARC.
July 16, 2024
I like the general message of this book – about not having to fit in with what your family/herd wants, and being able to find your own place in the world. And I did like the illustrations. However, I found the writing and story line quite clunky, and I didn’t feel that the author had made up their mind as to what age of reader they were aiming at.
While I do believe children should be introduced to new words, the prose needs to flow. This didn’t, and at times I found it jarring to read.
It started well with the rhyming words “fighting and biting”; “wasn’t too bright to fight and bite” – end of rhyming!
But then, “They said hurtful things that made him feel weird and wimpy”, “never felt like he fit in” [grammar!]. “[remembering is] a stupid idiotic waste of time”
Three pieces really annoyed me:
1) “he’d decide what to do with his life”. Adults might need to decide what to do with their lives, maybe teenagers – but not 4 – 9 year old children
2) “If you are in an elephant herd, love is shown through our humanity”. Firstly, it is not good grammar. Secondly, only humans show (or don’t show) humanity – the clue is in the word derivation. Thirdly, would a child (or even an adult) understand what is meant by this?
3) “I guess that makes us vegetarians”. “Which means neither of us will ever destroy an animal for food”. “A fact to feel good about”. Being a vegetarian does not make you a good person. Infamously, Hitler was a vegetarian. Also, there are many ways to destroy an animal which don’t involve eating it – intensive farming of plant crops damages the environment and reduces biodiversity, overgrazing by herbivores kills animals, flying in avocados etc contributes to climate change … This felt like virtue signalling that has not been thought through. Should a carnivorous animal such as tiger feel bad about themselves?
The facts about hippos and elephant in the book were interesting – but broke up the story flow, and did not always seem relevant. The piece about elephant kindness had little to do with kindness. It is not generally described as ‘kindness’ to save someone who fell into a deep river.
All the other reviews I have read about this book have been complimentary and glowing. But, the book really didn’t appeal to me personally. I feel it could have been done a lot better.
I received copy of this book at no cost from a book marketer in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
While I do believe children should be introduced to new words, the prose needs to flow. This didn’t, and at times I found it jarring to read.
It started well with the rhyming words “fighting and biting”; “wasn’t too bright to fight and bite” – end of rhyming!
But then, “They said hurtful things that made him feel weird and wimpy”, “never felt like he fit in” [grammar!]. “[remembering is] a stupid idiotic waste of time”
Three pieces really annoyed me:
1) “he’d decide what to do with his life”. Adults might need to decide what to do with their lives, maybe teenagers – but not 4 – 9 year old children
2) “If you are in an elephant herd, love is shown through our humanity”. Firstly, it is not good grammar. Secondly, only humans show (or don’t show) humanity – the clue is in the word derivation. Thirdly, would a child (or even an adult) understand what is meant by this?
3) “I guess that makes us vegetarians”. “Which means neither of us will ever destroy an animal for food”. “A fact to feel good about”. Being a vegetarian does not make you a good person. Infamously, Hitler was a vegetarian. Also, there are many ways to destroy an animal which don’t involve eating it – intensive farming of plant crops damages the environment and reduces biodiversity, overgrazing by herbivores kills animals, flying in avocados etc contributes to climate change … This felt like virtue signalling that has not been thought through. Should a carnivorous animal such as tiger feel bad about themselves?
The facts about hippos and elephant in the book were interesting – but broke up the story flow, and did not always seem relevant. The piece about elephant kindness had little to do with kindness. It is not generally described as ‘kindness’ to save someone who fell into a deep river.
All the other reviews I have read about this book have been complimentary and glowing. But, the book really didn’t appeal to me personally. I feel it could have been done a lot better.
I received copy of this book at no cost from a book marketer in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
July 9, 2024
Not only does this skillfully illustrated children’s book explore the friendship between two unlikely friends, Kuni, the hippopotamus and Zema, the elephant, it also teaches children interesting facts about said animals. Milt Lowe wrote about a hippo who just doesn’t fit in with his brothers. Fortunately, he meets a wise Elephant named Zema who shows him love and acceptance. Kuni learns that sometimes you find yourself choosing your family - rather than being born into it. Stephen Bibb’s illustrations jump off the page with a clarity and brilliance that is equally as poignant as the author’s message.
July 2, 2024
An adorable, feel good story that combines a lesson about knowing right from wrong and standing your ground against pressure, to finding friendships in unusual places. The author finds a teaching moment by cleverly intertwining real life facts about the wild animal characters in the book. The beautiful illustrations will appeal to a wide variety of children, including early adolescents. Highly recommend for parents and teachers alike!
July 9, 2024
The Hippo Who Hated to Fight is a heartwarming read about a hippopotamus who doesn’t quite fit in with his brothers. Kumo uses many different strategies to help cope with his differences. Children who read along will learn coping strategies along with some amazing facts about animals. The author intertwined fun facts about elephants and hippos. I found myself smiling the whole way through this is a great story to teach children about differences and empathy. Highly reccomend!
July 9, 2024
This is a sweet story of Kuno, a hippo who did not fit in because he did not like to fight and bite. As he seeks the advice of Zema, an elephant, he learns about how it feels to be appreciated by a friend. This story of friendship is told with facts about hippos and elephants woven throughout. A great book for a young animal lover!
July 11, 2024
Celebrating Differences !
Teaching kids that even though those closest to us might be family, it's ok if we don't agree. Sometimes our greatest relationships or with others.
This is great lesson on acceptance and understanding you don't always have to follow the crowd if you don't want to.
Teaching kids that even though those closest to us might be family, it's ok if we don't agree. Sometimes our greatest relationships or with others.
This is great lesson on acceptance and understanding you don't always have to follow the crowd if you don't want to.
June 30, 2024
I picked this up in order to give an honest review.
I enjoyed this story a lot. It gave a lot of facts about hippos and elephants and told a story of friendship. The illustrations were great. This would make a wonderful bedtime story.
I recommend this book.
I enjoyed this story a lot. It gave a lot of facts about hippos and elephants and told a story of friendship. The illustrations were great. This would make a wonderful bedtime story.
I recommend this book.
July 6, 2024
What a cute book! Kuno the hippo doesn’t fit in and sets off on a journey to find out where he does. He meets a heard of elephants and shares hippo-facts and learns elephant wisdom. Sweet story and a good way to learn some animal facts.
July 9, 2024
A really wonderful illustrated book, very colorful and a meaningful story for children to learn that they matter and it is good to be different! This book teaches about elephants and hippos, and how to be caring of others, and to be brave to search for love and acceptance.
July 18, 2024
This is very rich story. It teaches that you can pave your own path and be authentically you. It also has some really cool facts about the characters who are a hippo and elephant. Which is not only educational but engaging. I loved the illustrations and overall plot. A great book for any child!
August 2, 2024
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
An old saying states, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” One glimpse at the cover, mainly the hippo’s expressive eyes, and you know he is a troubled soul.
The author hit the nail on the head when they chose the title, The Hippo Who Hated To Fight.From day one, Kuno had no desire to bite and fight, which was very common hippo behavior. Since he didn’t participate in “normal” animal behavior, Kuno was teased mercilessly by his four older brothers. Kuno reacted to his siblings’ continuous mocking in the same manner a human would: they felt like they didn’t fit in, that no one loved or even liked them.
Kuno left the toxic atmosphere, needing time to “figure things out.” It’s during this time of self-reflection that readers learn fascinating information about hippopotamuses. Where do most hippos live? How long can they hold their breath? Can they swim? Are they slow or fast walkers? How much do they typically weigh? As Kuno contemplates what he wants to do with his life, he almost runs into Zema, a 12,000-pound elephant. As the duo chat, readers discover how hearty an elephant’s appetite is, what they munch on, and who’s faster: an elephant or a hippopotamus. We also learn how elephants cool off, which is an illustration children will find funny.
Readers of all ages will be touched by the heartwarming story of Kuno and Zema. It’s a tale that beautifully illustrates the importance of kindness, respect, and acceptance, regardless of our differences.
If we want our children to grow up as kind individuals who lift others up instead of tearing them down, we must model these acts when they are young. I recommend sharing this lovely, heartfelt story with your family.
I agree with Amazon’s recommended reading age of 4-9 years.
(Find more reviews/ratings at www.superkambrook.com)
August 14, 2024
The Hippo Who Hated to Fight is a heartwarming picture book about Kuno, a young hippo with a gentle soul living in a world where fighting and biting are the norms. Kuno is different from his four big brothers, who can’t seem to understand his aversion to conflict. Seeking solace, Kuno embarks on a journey of self-discovery, encountering Zema, a wise and kind elephant. Through their conversations, Kuno learns valuable lessons about kindness, love, and self-acceptance, leading to a transformative friendship that changes his life.
I absolutely loved this story! The writing is simple yet effective, making it enjoyable for children and adults alike. Lowe’s ability to capture Kuno’s emotions, from his feelings of alienation to his joy in discovering true friendship, is truly touching. The dialogue between Kuno and Zema is playful and deep and often brings a smile to my face, especially when Zema gently teases Kuno with her big floppy ears or talks about her insatiable appetite.
What really stood out to me were the messages woven into the story. Kuno’s journey isn’t just about fitting in; it's about embracing who you are, even when you feel out of place. Zema’s wisdom, like her explanation that elephants don’t say “I love you” but show it through actions, adds depth to the story. It’s a beautiful reminder that love and kindness don’t always need to be expressed in words; sometimes, they’re best shown through care and compassion. These moments made the book feel like a gentle guide for any child or adult learning to navigate their path in life.
Stephen Bibel's illustrations are the perfect complement to Lowe’s story. They’re bright and full of life and capture the essence of the characters beautifully. These images will surely captivate young readers and help them connect with the story.
The Hippo Who Hated to Fight is a delightful children’s book that I’d recommend to anyone looking for a heartwarming and meaningful story. It’s perfect for kids who’ve ever felt different or struggled to fit in, and it’s a great reminder for all of us about the power of kindness and being true to ourselves.
I absolutely loved this story! The writing is simple yet effective, making it enjoyable for children and adults alike. Lowe’s ability to capture Kuno’s emotions, from his feelings of alienation to his joy in discovering true friendship, is truly touching. The dialogue between Kuno and Zema is playful and deep and often brings a smile to my face, especially when Zema gently teases Kuno with her big floppy ears or talks about her insatiable appetite.
What really stood out to me were the messages woven into the story. Kuno’s journey isn’t just about fitting in; it's about embracing who you are, even when you feel out of place. Zema’s wisdom, like her explanation that elephants don’t say “I love you” but show it through actions, adds depth to the story. It’s a beautiful reminder that love and kindness don’t always need to be expressed in words; sometimes, they’re best shown through care and compassion. These moments made the book feel like a gentle guide for any child or adult learning to navigate their path in life.
Stephen Bibel's illustrations are the perfect complement to Lowe’s story. They’re bright and full of life and capture the essence of the characters beautifully. These images will surely captivate young readers and help them connect with the story.
The Hippo Who Hated to Fight is a delightful children’s book that I’d recommend to anyone looking for a heartwarming and meaningful story. It’s perfect for kids who’ve ever felt different or struggled to fit in, and it’s a great reminder for all of us about the power of kindness and being true to ourselves.
September 25, 2024
The Review
What an emotional and heartwarming read! The warmth of the illustrations and the rich dynamics between Kuno and the elephant, especially its leader, will stay with both parents and their children as the story progresses. The balance the author found between the heartening story and the attention to detail the author pays to the animal facts about elephants and hippos and the lives they lead was incredible to see come to life on the page.
The heart of this story was in the themes the author brought to life, from the value of friendship and the true meaning of a family to the question of identity and the battle to be your most true and authentic self. Kuno's struggle and the family he finds for himself will resonate with so many young people who are looking for a sense of self and with parents who want to show their children the power of self-acceptance and friendship and how they can endure.
The Verdict
Memorable, heartfelt, and compelling author Milt Lowe’s “The Hippo Who Hated to Fight” is a must-read children’s book. The engaging and thoughtful themes will allow the dynamic characters and story to elevate and bring parents and children alike together perfectly
What an emotional and heartwarming read! The warmth of the illustrations and the rich dynamics between Kuno and the elephant, especially its leader, will stay with both parents and their children as the story progresses. The balance the author found between the heartening story and the attention to detail the author pays to the animal facts about elephants and hippos and the lives they lead was incredible to see come to life on the page.
The heart of this story was in the themes the author brought to life, from the value of friendship and the true meaning of a family to the question of identity and the battle to be your most true and authentic self. Kuno's struggle and the family he finds for himself will resonate with so many young people who are looking for a sense of self and with parents who want to show their children the power of self-acceptance and friendship and how they can endure.
The Verdict
Memorable, heartfelt, and compelling author Milt Lowe’s “The Hippo Who Hated to Fight” is a must-read children’s book. The engaging and thoughtful themes will allow the dynamic characters and story to elevate and bring parents and children alike together perfectly
December 23, 2025
The Hippo Who Hated To Fight is a gentle, heartfelt picture book that delivers an important message about kindness, self-acceptance, and finding where you truly belong.
Kuno is an immediately sympathetic character a hippo who simply doesn’t fit the expectations placed on him. His refusal to fight, and the teasing he endures because of it, mirrors emotions many young readers recognize: feeling different, misunderstood, or left out. The story treats those feelings with empathy rather than simplification.
What works especially well is how the narrative blends emotional growth with engaging, age-appropriate nonfiction elements. Fun facts about hippos and elephants are woven naturally into Kuno’s journey, adding educational value without disrupting the story’s flow. The illustrations reinforce both the humor and the heart, making the emotional beats easy for children to follow.
Ultimately, this is a reassuring read-aloud that encourages children to value kindness over conformity and reminds them that it’s okay to be different you just have to find your herd. Well suited for families, classrooms, and library collections.
Kuno is an immediately sympathetic character a hippo who simply doesn’t fit the expectations placed on him. His refusal to fight, and the teasing he endures because of it, mirrors emotions many young readers recognize: feeling different, misunderstood, or left out. The story treats those feelings with empathy rather than simplification.
What works especially well is how the narrative blends emotional growth with engaging, age-appropriate nonfiction elements. Fun facts about hippos and elephants are woven naturally into Kuno’s journey, adding educational value without disrupting the story’s flow. The illustrations reinforce both the humor and the heart, making the emotional beats easy for children to follow.
Ultimately, this is a reassuring read-aloud that encourages children to value kindness over conformity and reminds them that it’s okay to be different you just have to find your herd. Well suited for families, classrooms, and library collections.
July 26, 2024
I loved the illustrations as they were adorable and went wonderfully with the story. The itself was full of lessons: recognizing likes and dislikes, recognizing friendships, and recognizing and knowing that others outside of immediate family can care about you. Lastly, there were many fun animal facts for the children and adults alike to enjoy.
July 31, 2024
Thank you so much to Deborah Schmidt for the ebook to read and review.
Kuno feels left out, he doesn’t like biting and fighting like his brothers. So he wanders off to find where he can belong and meets an elephant herd leader Zema who teaches him so much and the two become best friends.
A very sweet story of not fitting in where you believe you should, finding your truest self and forming an unlike friendship. Kuno a young hippo was really sad and lonely, not feeling happiness or love in any way and then as he found Zema an elephant she taught him all about kindness, about love, about community.
I thought their friendship p, it was really sweet, the two found they had a few things in common, and Kuno loved learning more from her. It had really big illustrations on each page and you could see all the details of the animals. It was a very sweet story of unexpected family and friendship.
Kuno feels left out, he doesn’t like biting and fighting like his brothers. So he wanders off to find where he can belong and meets an elephant herd leader Zema who teaches him so much and the two become best friends.
A very sweet story of not fitting in where you believe you should, finding your truest self and forming an unlike friendship. Kuno a young hippo was really sad and lonely, not feeling happiness or love in any way and then as he found Zema an elephant she taught him all about kindness, about love, about community.
I thought their friendship p, it was really sweet, the two found they had a few things in common, and Kuno loved learning more from her. It had really big illustrations on each page and you could see all the details of the animals. It was a very sweet story of unexpected family and friendship.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews