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  • Published: 14 October 2026
  • ISBN: 9781623546380
  • Imprint: Charlesbridge Children
  • Format: Hardback
  • Pages: 40
  • RRP: $39.99

Can Mud Be THAT?!



Squishy, sticky, and surprisingly helpful—discover how mud transforms animals’ lives in this messy, fun, and fact-filled adventure kids will love to dive into!

A vibrant, playful nonfiction picture book for ages 4 to 7 that blends sensory fun with fascinating animal science and encourages hands-on exploration.

Mud isn’t just sticky and messy—it’s magic for animals! It’s a tasty milkshake for swallowtail butterflies, sticky glue for beavers, a cooling pool for hippos, and even sunscreen for rhinos. Meet eleven amazing animals who use mud in surprising ways, brought to life with vibrant art and fun mud splatters on every page.

In the back matter, readers discover how humans have used mud too—and the best part? Playing with it! Plus, fun mud-tastic facts and creative ideas invite readers to dig in, build, bake, and make their own muddy masterpieces.

  • Published: 14 October 2026
  • ISBN: 9781623546380
  • Imprint: Charlesbridge Children
  • Format: Hardback
  • Pages: 40
  • RRP: $39.99

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Praise for Can Mud Be THAT?!

Praise for Thirsty, Thirsty Elephants

  • “A fresh, winning blend of natural science, simple storyline, tenderness, and perseverance.”—Kirkus Reviews, starred review
Praise for The Great Shark Rescue: Saving the Whale Sharks
  • “Well organized, clearly written, and excitingly illustrated, this highly enlightening work is an excellent addition for any nature collection as well as for the study of the environment and endangered species.”—School Library Journal, starred review
Praise for Finding Home
  • NSTA/CBC Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K-12
  • JLG Premiere Selection

Praise for A Mother's Journey
  • NSTA/CBC Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K-12, 
  • Boston Globe-Horn Book Award Honor Book