Animal Pals

In the animal world, it's rare for two mammal species to form a mutualistic relationship. It's especially rare for that to happen when neither species is a primate, but that's exactly what happens between warthogs and banded mongooses. Young readers will be thrilled to discover these contrasting creatures and the fascinating bond between them. Accessible text addresses important science concepts and lively images bring this relationship into full focus. Fun facts and a graphic organizer enhance the narrative.

A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush, or so the saying goes. But, what about a bird on your back that can help rid you of parasites and warn you of danger? That's what oxpeckers do for rhinos. At least, that's what was believed, until recent research suggested the relationship may be more complicated. This fascinating volume will captivate young readers as they discover the complex relationship between rhinos and oxpeckers. Age-appropriate text covers important science concepts while remaining entertaining. A graphic organizer and fast facts help cement newly learned information.

Ants and aphids are insects common around homes and gardens. Homeowners, gardeners, and picnickers often consider them pests, but these insects have fascinating secret lives. Many ant and aphid species form truly remarkable mutualistic relationships. This delightful volume will captivate young readers as they discover the surprising world of ants and aphids together. An entertaining and accessible narrative addresses important science concepts. Fun facts and a graphic organizer offer even more information in comprehensible ways for all levels of readers.

Everyone wants to have someone to count on when the going gets tough. Often it's family, but in the animal world, support sometimes comes from unlikely places. African elephants and olive baboons have formed a surprising mutualistic relationship that helps carry them through difficult times. Young readers will delight in what they learn about these two animals and the bond they share. Thrilling images, fun facts, and a graphic organizer support the accessible narrative. Important science concepts are shared through this fun reading experience.

We all get by with a little help from our friends. You might not think of sharks as having friends, but they do. And, those friends provide important help in keeping sharks clean and free of parasites. In return, sharks provide protection for their friends. This captivating volume will thrill young readers as they learn about the relationship between sharks and the various cleaner fish who help them. Vibrant, buoyant images, fun facts, and a graphic organizer enhance the narrative. This accessible text addresses important science concepts while keeping readers thoroughly entertained.

The movie Finding Nemo introduced the general-public to clown fish and their sea anemone homes, but there's so much more to learn about this relationship. For example, only 10 of the over 1,000 sea anemone species form mutualistic relationships with clown fish.