Hush, hush! by Margaret Wild

Ill. by Bridget Strevens-Marzo. Board book. Little Hare, 2010. ISBN 9781921541926.
(Age 1+) Recommended. Baby Hippo couldn't sleep. His mother told him to 'hush, hush', but he decided to go for a walk. Wherever he went he heard mothers telling their babies to hush, hush. There were baby crocodiles, baby giraffes, baby leopards and baby monkeys all having trouble sleeping. Baby Hippo listened to all those 'Hush, hush' words and finally decided he was ready to go to sleep, but his mother was making a terrible 'Snort, snore! Snort, snore!' noise.
I really enjoyed this bedtime story. It is one that I will be keeping for my grandchildren and I am sure that they will have lots of fun with the repetition in the story.  They will also learn about different baby animals in the most delightful way. The humour is infectious and I particularly loved Mother Hippo snoring and snorting in her sleep, refusing to hush for her baby.
The illustrations are very engaging and toddlers will get a giggle out of the grin on the face of Baby Hippo and revel in his antics, especially when he stands on his head. The deep purples of the sky and beautiful greens and blues make for a memorable story.
This is a sturdy board book. It should hold up to much use, which I am sure it will get, as it is certain to be a favourite with young children.
Pat Pledger