Curious Features of Extraordinary Creatures: Nature's Cleanup Crew

Ages 2 And Up, Grades P to 17

Nature’ Clean-Up Crew, the second installment in the Curious Features of Extraordinary Creatures series, shines a spotlight on species within the five kingdoms that keep nature thriving and Earth’s ecosystems in balance.

Readers discover vital species and their habits, including large scavengers such as vultures, small detrivores including sea cucumbers and woodlice, and composters, who restore organic waste back to nutrients held in the earth. The book also answers questions like: What happens when large species die? How can humans be better composters? How do different species work in tandem to recycle waste?

Bite-sized text breaks down key information about each creature’s appearance, behavior and habitat, while colorful and dynamic illustrations bring the animal or plant to life in front of you. Plus, bold graphic-novel style panels tell the story of an essential aspect of each scavenger’s key process, such as the hermit crab recycling rubbish to wear as a protective suit of armor and the Tasmanian devil who will eat its body weight in one quick sitting! Feature spreads delve deeper into the scavenging world, showcasing how these animals keep our planet healthy.

About the Author

Fiona Fogg is an award-winning illustrator based in Norwich, England. She has previously worked with clients including the National Trust, Blenheim Palace, and Norfolk Museums Service. Fiona has illustrated several children’s books and has an MA in children’s book illustration from Cambridge School of Art, and was awarded second place in the 2020 Carmelite Prize in children’s book illustration.