Amazon.com Review
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
From School Library Journal
Kindergarten-Grade 3--Lily Hippo just can't seem to do anything quietly. She is noisy when she reads and watches television, and she gets her friends in trouble at school when she laughs out loud at a note they pass. This boisterous youngster seems destined to be misunderstood until the flamboyant new drama teacher arrives. Miss Loopiola is a hippo who encourages Lily and channels her talents for the school play. The vibrant illustrations depict the action and accentuate Lily's exuberant personality. All of the animal characters are drawn with lots of expression and the palette is bold. Printed in a large font, the text is clearly visible and easy to follow. Children who also feel that their special character traits are more trouble than they are worth will enjoy Lily's story and find comfort in realizing that there is a place for their unique gifts.
--Linda M. Kenton, San Rafael Public Library, CA Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
