Recent Reads: The Hippo at the End of the Hall by Helen Cooper

Source: From Librarything Early reviewers program and Candlewick Press in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review.

The Hippo at the End of the Hall by Helen Cooper
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Publication Date:  October 8, 2019

 

Format: Paperback ARC
Rating:








Goodreads Synopsis: 

When Ben receives a mysterious invitation to an odd museum, he's swept into a peculiar world of forgotten secrets and wild magic in this illustrated novel. 

The invitation to the Gee Museum was delivered by bees. It wasn't addressed to anyone, but Ben knows that it was meant for him. Why else would the images on the postcard have stirred up memories of his father, who was lost at sea long ago? Ben makes his way to the old dilapidated building to find a host of curious talking animals awaiting his arrival. They are certain he is the only one who can save the museum. But Ben and the animals in the Gee collection will have to outwit a devious rival museum owner and a greedy land developer. With a bit of luck, some strange magic, and a little help from his mom, Ben might succeed in ensuring the future of the museum -- and finding the answers about his father that he's been searching for his whole life. Helen Cooper's first novel brims with mystery and hope, and her lovely illustrations bring the wonders of the Gee Museum to life.

Review: 
When a strange invitation to an old museum arrives for Ben, he is both interested and curious. Upon arrival he finds a mess old museum full of artifacts and taxidermy, but he also finds a plot unraveling. People in the town are looking to take over the land the museum is on and do away with all the interesting exhibits and Ben feels compelled to help the museum - it just feels right.

The Hippo at the End of the Hall is an adorable middle grade read about family and friendship, and also a little bit of magic. The story is full of surprising and tense moments and includes illustrations throughout. The overall story is whimsical and fun to read and I think that middle grade readers will enjoy the suspense and the magical elements. 

The main character, Ben, was brave albeit a bit stubborn but overall was a great character to follow along with to rescue the museum. The other characters were mostly animals that came back to life by magic to help save the museum, each with they own fun and quirky personality. It made for some laughs and I loved the images throughout the book to help really see the characters. 

Overall this suspenseful, adventure would be a great read for a family.