Don’t Eat the Cleaners!: Tiny Fish with a Big Job

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.

Susan Stockdale began her art career as a textile designer for the apparel industry, providing her an opportunity to express her love of pattern and color. Today, pattern and color remain central to her work as the author and 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.