Hurty Feelings

A funny and warmhearted picture book about a hippo with thin skin — literally and figuratively — that uses slapstick humor to make emotional sensitivity feel relatable rather than shameful. Kirkus and Booklist both praised it, and teachers have made it a classroom staple for a reason: it handles a tricky subject without being preachy. The resolution is a bit tidy and the structure formulaic, but for ages four to eight this is a genuinely enjoyable read-aloud with real emotional payoff.