Description:
Energetic Aussie author Sofie Laguna tells the story of an equally energetic (and very loud) young hippo in her second picture book--the first to be released in the U.S. and Canada. Little Lily Hippo just can't keep quiet, no matter how hard she tries: "'Lily Hippo, keep it down please--I can't hear myself think!' said Dad.... 'Lily Hippo, you make more noise than a herd of wild elephants!' said Lily's big brother." Even when she's trying to do something quiet, like reading a funny book, Lily can't help but crack up, rousting the whole family with her loud laughter. But when a new teacher comes to Lily's school--Miss Loopiola, a big, boisterous drama teacher, draped in sparkly jewelry and a bright red poncho--Lily learns that her loudness might have a purpose. When Lily politely tries to dance a "fast-stomping dance" very quietly, Miss Loopiola encourages her to "try stomping just a little louder this time, please!" With her volume unleashed in an appropriate place (on stage) Lily finally gets to shine. Illustrator Kerry Argent deserves equal praise here, adding many comedic asides and highlighting Laguna's playful characterizations of the all-animal cast. Any kid who's ever had trouble keeping quiet (that is, every kid ever) will love Too Loud Lily, a fun to read (and fun-to-read-along-to) story. (Ages 4 to 8) --Paul Hughes
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