Elmer and the Hippos

By David McKee

The elephants are not happy - the hippos have come to share the river because theirs has dried up. When they complain to Elmer that the river is over-crowded, everyone's favourite patchwork elephant sets off to see if he can find a solution . . .

• Language: English
• Publisher: Andersen Digital
• Release date: Jul 10, 2012
• ISBN: 9781849399500

David McKee

David McKee was the creator of several famous characters including King Rollo, Mr. Benn, and Elmer the Patchwork Elephant. His books are published in numerous languages throughout the world. In 2020 David won the BookTrust’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

Reviews for Elmer and the Hippos

[mendie7cargill · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Summary: In this book the elephants were upset because Elmer the elephant said that he and the other elephants would share the river with the hippos. Elmer found that some rocks were blocking the water in the hippo’s river. He convinces the other elephants to help the hippos move the rocks. In the end the elephants and hippos become friends. Personal Reaction: I like this book. I like this book because it teaches friendship as well as leadership. Elmer was kind and helpful and he led by example. Extension: I would use this book in a lesson about friendship and kindness. And then have the students talk about their own experiences with helping people.

[ashleyreece · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Summary:In this book the elephants were upset because Elmer said the hippos could share their river. Elmer found that some rocks were blocking the water in the hippo’s river. He convinces the elephants to help the hippos move the rocks. In the end the elephants and hippos become friends. Personal Reaction: I like this book. I think it tells a lot about friendship hand helping one another. I think this teaches a lesson in being selfless. Elmer was kind and helpful and he led by example. Extension 1: I would use this book in a lesson about friendship and kindness.Extension 2: I would use this book in a lesson on fantasy.

[ambourg7 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This is story that teaches to help others regardless of differences. The illustrations are absolutely colorful and vibrant. This is an easy read for sypung children to understand.

[kidlit9 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

When the hippos river dries up and the elephants get annoyed, Elmer gets everyone to help solve the problem.