We have several Sandra Boynton books. Our collection began about 4 years ago when I was expecting our first child. The first Boynton book we got was "But Not the Hippopotamus." We were drawn to Boynton's books for several reasons.

First, when we were browsing for books, we were caught by the illustrations. I remember being in the bookstore and finding her books and yelling (well, very excitedly calling) my husband over to see her books. "Look at these pictures!" I exclaimed. Of course, he never meets my level of excitement, but did agree that the illustrations were definitely appealing.

Then we moved on to reading some of her books. We laughed so hard at the "Hippopotamus book" as it is now known in our house that we bought it. This book is a short book about a poor hippopotamus who is present when the other animals are socializing nearby, but is never invited or involved in anything that goes on. Until... the end when all of the animals decide to go for a jog and YES! they invite the Hippopotamus. She's so shocked she has to think about whether to go or not? Does she go? Well, you read the book and see. I promise you won't be disappointed.

The next thing we love about Boynton's books is that all of her books we own are "board books." These are the books that are made from thicker, cardboard-like pages. Toddler proof, so to speak. (Does that exist?) They have survived the last 3 1/2 years of one child and the last 1 1/2 years of another. With plenty of life left to spare. We could have 2 or 3 more children and when all of our Dr. Seuss books are long and buried, we'll still have our Sandra Boynton books.

I would encourage Boynton's books for anyone with children birth to age 10. Shoot! My husband and I love her books! Go ahead, buy em' for Uncle Al.



Recommended: Yes