Our community is so lucky to be in such close proximity to one of the world’s greatest zoos: Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium!
These picture books are all about going to the zoo and the furry (or rough) (or slimy) friends we meet there. What is your favorite animal to see at the zoo? Tell us in the comments below!
All titles mentioned below are available on our online catalog.
Dear Zoo by Rod Campbell
A child writes to the zoo for a pet. The zoo send a series of unsuitable pets, revealed behind flaps in the form of crates and packing cases. These animals are all sent back for different reasons, except the last one, which is perfect!
Good Night, Gorilla by Peggy Rathmann
It’s bedtime at the zoo, and all the animals are going to sleep. Or are they? Who’s that short, furry guy with the key in his hand and the mischievous grin?
Good night, Giraffe.
Good night, Hyena.
Sneak along behind the zookeeper’s back, and see who gets the last laugh in this riotous good-night romp.
My Heart is Like a Zoo by Michael Hall
This award-winning picture book is a must-have for every young reader, who will learn that a heart can be hopeful, silly, happy, rugged, snappy, or lonely. A heart holds every different feeling, and author-artist Michael Hall captures each one with his bold, graphic artwork.
Fiona the Hippo by Richard Cowdrey
Fiona, the famous hippo from the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens, was not expected to live. She was born prematurely, at only 29 pounds. But her inspiring story of spunk and determination captured hearts around the world. Fiona the Hippo tells the story of smart, sassy, and fearless Fiona. Readers will cheer on Fiona as she defeats the odds and becomes a happy, healthy hippopotamus.
Animal Strike at the Zoo. It’s True! by Karma Wilson
What’s a zookeeper to do when the lions and tigers and bears refuse to roar and prowl and growl? And when little Sue, who has been waiting all year for this trip to the zoo, enters the gate, will the animals decide to give their strike a break?
Never Play Music Right Next to the Zoo by John Lithgow
A concert gets out of hand when the animals at the neighboring zoo storm the stage and play the instruments themselves in this hilarious picture book based on one of John Lithgow’s best-loved tunes.
Bug Zoo by Andy Harkness
Ben loves bugs: armored, teeny, leggy, greenie, floaty, wingy, jumpy, springy bugs! After a trip to the city zoo, Ben collects all of the bugs he can find and sets up a bug zoo. He couldn’t be happier–but what about his bugs?
Agnes Robinson Waterloo Public Library 