Review by Leah Harrigan of “Olly the Oyster Cleans the Bay” by Elaine Ann Allen, Illustrated by Kelli Nash
Exploring the importance of oyster reef habitats, Olly the Oyster Cleans the Bay introduces readers to the transformative power of marine life helpers. In the book, author Elaine Ann Ellen blends educational concepts about natural water purification with a compelling story of one little oyster seeking to make a difference. Through the lovable Olly, readers are introduced to many ways marine animals help clean our precious waters.
Drifting the currents of Chesapeake Bay, Olly the oyster finds himself wanting to settle down to do something important. He meets a handful of characters including the blue crab, the sea cucumber, Mrs. Barnacle, and Mr. Sea Urchin who teach him how they use their pincers, fingers, and teeth to clean waste in the bay. Readers learn about methods the animals use to remove carrion (dead fish left behind by fisherman), detritus (tiny bits of plant and animal waste), and slippery green algae.
Throughout his interactions with these characters, the helpful Olly continues to state his biggest wish: I want to do something important! However, he never seems to share the same natural tools the others have for doing their job.
When Olly finds a community of oysters like himself, readers learn how he’s actually been cleaning the Chesapeake Bay all along. Olly discovers how valuable his sticky gills are when trapping debris in the cloudy water – not to mention how they bring yummy food for him and his friends. After searching for so long to feel important and then finding he has all along been helping to clean the bay, Olly finally learns he is more than capable of doing something important.
Olly the Oyster Cleans the Bay opens the opportunity for discussions on topics like the diversity of natural cleaning agents and the impact of seeking to help. Educators and caregivers will especially appreciate the book’s ability to spark conversations with children about natural water purification and the importance of caring for marine life. And once again, there is opportunity here to let nature be our teacher for living our own, better life.