From the Zoo to the Page: How Sandra Boynton Was Inspired to Write ‘Hippos Go Berserk
“How a Chance Encounter with Hippos Led to a Bestselling Book”
Sandra Boynton’s “Hippos Go Berserk” has been a favorite of children and parents since its publication in 1977, but many readers may not know the story behind its creation.
According to Boynton, she was inspired to write the book after observing a group of hippos at the zoo one day in the early 1970s. She noticed that the hippos, typically solitary animals, were all gathering together and having a raucous party in the water. This inspired her to imagine what it would be like if hippos could throw a party and invite all their friends.
In a 2017 interview with Scholastic, Boynton explained that she wanted to create a book that would be “an amusing fantasy for kids, with a lot of funny things happening and a lot of whimsy.” She also noted that the book was originally intended for a slightly older audience, but was ultimately marketed towards young children.
Despite this change, “Hippos Go Berserk” has remained a beloved classic in children’s literature. With its silly rhymes, colorful illustrations, and infectious sense of fun, the book captures the joy and exuberance of a wild and wacky hippo party.
In the interview, Boynton talks about how she approaches writing for kids, saying that she tries to create a world that is “a little bit off-kilter, but not too much.” She also emphasizes the importance of humor and whimsy in her books, noting that “kids love absurdity and wordplay.”
Overall, it seems that Boynton’s inspiration for “Hippos Go Berserk” was a combination of her observations of real-life hippos and her own imagination and sense of humor.”
If you’re looking to add some silly, whimsical fun to your family’s bookshelf, “Hippos Go Berserk” is definitely worth a read. And if you want to experience even more of the joy and magic of children’s literature, be sure to check out our YouTube channel, “Tales with Mom.” We specialize in bringing beloved books to life through read-alouds, digital animation and creative storytelling, and we’d love for you to join us on our adventures through the wonderful world of children’s books.
