Don’t Eat the Cleaners!

Tiny Fish with a Big Job
by Susan Stockdale
Illustrated by Susan Stockdale
Even though they live underwater, ocean animals have to get clean, just like we do. But they get it done in a weird and wonderful way.
  • ISBN: 9781682637296
  • Publication date: 02/25/2025
  • Page Count: 32
  • Size: 11" x 9"
  • Age Range: 4-8
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  • ISBN: 9781682637296
  • Publication date: 02/25/2025
  • Page Count: 32
  • Size: 11" x 9"
  • Age Range: 4-8
  • Price:
  • Age Range: 4-8
  • Price:
  • Age Range: 4-8
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  • ISBN: 9781682637623
  • Publication date: 02/18/2025
  • Page Count: N/A
  • Age Range: 4-8
  • Price:
  • Age Range: 4-8
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Description

Even though they live underwater, ocean animals have to get clean, just like we do. But they get it done in a weird and wonderful way.

Just like you have to take a bath and brush your teeth, fish also have basic hygiene practices they have to follow every day. But their approach to cleanliness doesn’t just take place underwater—it involves a network of larger ocean animals washed by small fish and shrimp called cleaners at coral reef cleaning stations around the world.

Cleaners remove pesky parasites from their customers in return for a tasty meal, serving up to 2000 customers a day. Sea turtles, manta rays, and even sharks line up for a scrubbing in the busy stations, just like at a car wash. Some customers return 100 times daily. And they must remember the important rule if they want a washing by the cleaning crew: DON’T EAT THE CLEANERS!

Readers will delight in this colorful exploration of the remarkable teamwork among coral reef residents. Back matter features images of all 30 animals and a fun matching game: can you find the animals in the book?

In her latest nonfiction work, award-winning author-illustrator Susan Stockdale once again proves her talent in creating engaging and entertaining nature books for young readers.

Author/Illustrator

Susan Stockdale

Author and Illustrator

Susan Stockdale, a former textile designer for the apparel industry is the author-illustrator of critically acclaimed picture books that celebrate nature. Her books have won a variety of awards, including the ALSC Notable Children’s Book, NCTE Notable Children’s Books in the Language Arts, NSTA Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K–12, and the Bank Street College of Education Best Children’s Books of the Year. Susan lives in Maryland with her husband, and is a popular speaker at schools and conferences.

Reviews

“A striking demonstration of cooperation in the natural world.” – Kirkus Reviews

“[A] lively book. Children . . . can gather plenty of detail for reports and enjoyment from Stockdale’s cheery explainer.” – Booklist

More Details

BISAC 1: JNF051150 Juvenile Nonfiction – Science & Nature – Zoology
BISAC 2: JNF003150 Juvenile Nonfiction – Animals – Marine Life
BISAC 3: JNF051100 Juvenile Nonfiction – Science & Nature – Environmental Science & Ecosystems

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