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Cover of Why hippos have no hair

Age rating and parents' guide:Why hippos have no hair

by Basilio Gimo, David Ker

Ages 5–9

Why hippos have no hair by Basilio Gimo, David Ker is best for children aged 5–9. It has moderate violence, a few mildly scary moments, no romance and no bad language.

When Hippo accidentally steps on Rabbit's foot while grazing by the river, she immediately apologizes. But Rabbit refuses to forgive her and convinces Fire to seek revenge. A traditional pourquoi tale explaining why hippos have no hair and why they stay close to the safety of water.

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Content ratings

How much of each a parent can expect, from none to strong.

Violence
Moderate
Scary moments
Mild
Romance
None
Bad language
None
Dhiraj Bodade

Content checked by Dhiraj Bodade, co-founder of Bookstaken, on 4 October 2026.

At a glance

  • ★Picture book

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Questions parents ask

Q: What age is Why hippos have no hair for?
Why hippos have no hair suits children aged 5–9. It is a picture book.
Q: Is Why hippos have no hair appropriate for a 5 year old?
Yes. Bookstaken rates it for ages 5–9. It has moderate violence, a few mildly scary moments, no romance and no bad language.
Q: What should my child read after Why hippos have no hair?
Try Les enfants de cire, Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel and Too Small Tola. They share the same kind of story and suit the same ages.
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