A Scrub in the Tub

by Jan Thomas

A smelly Pig does not want to take a scrub in the tub…until his friends help him see the perks of getting clean in this hilarious and relatable bathtime picture book.

Rabbit and Weasel know their pal Pig needs a scrub in the tub. There’s just one Pig does not like baths! He tries every alternative, from a single splash to a mud bath, but alas, the stink persists. With some help from his friends, can Pig open his mind to a bit of bath time fun?

Genres: Picture Books, Humor, Animals, Childrens, Storytime, Juvenile

40 pages, Hardcover

Published June 3, 2025

Reviews

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

First sentence: Pee-ew! SOMEONE needs a scrub in the tub!
Absolutely!
WHO needs a scrub in the tub?
YOU, Pig! YOU need a scrub in the tub!
Absolutely!
ME? I don't think I need a scrub in the tub!

Premise/plot: PIG does not want a scrub in the tub. His friends disagree. If Pig wants to hang around with them, a scrub in the tub is not optional. Will Pig take a bath? Will he enjoy his bath?

My thoughts: It has been a while since I've read Jan Thomas' humorous picture books. These are the same beloved characters from earlier picture books. She is great at writing silly, humorous picture books and early readers for young readers. Her books often have again-again appeal. Definitely recommended for fans of Jan Thomas. And if this is your first Jan Thomas picture book, be sure to check out her earlier picture books!

[Melanie Hetrick · Rating 2 out of 5]

Rabbit and Weasel won't stand near Pig until he takes a scrub in the tub.

This story feels way to judgy. I can see children thinking it hilarious to walk up to unhoused people and saying "you need a scrub in the tub". If you are desperate for a story about someone who does not like to bathe, sure, you could check this one out. Or you could try Willem's The Pigeon Needs a Bath.

[Sarah Alamer · Rating 4 out of 5]

We're so proud of you for reading this fun book! You learned something really important - sometimes things we think we won't like (like Pig and his bath!) can actually be super fun when we try them. Just like Pig discovered bubbles and warm water feel good, you might find new foods, games, or activities you'll love if you give them a chance. Keep being brave and trying new things, sweetie!

[Terresa Wellborn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Looks like Jan Thomas is up to her silly antics again, this time with one very dirty pig and some friends who just want him to Have a Bath! Great book to teach the important of regular(!) bathtime to littles.

Themes: pigs/animals, bath time, humor
Ages: toddler-1st grade
Pub year: 2025

[Y.Poston]

fun encouragement to hop on in the bath

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Found in L4L Volume 164.

[Aolund · Rating 4 out of 5]

A satisfying and silly bath time picture book in Jan Thomas' characteristic style.

Themes: Bathtime, Smelly
Age range: toddler-kindergarten

[Lillian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun book - usual Jan Thomas silliness

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Perfect pre bath time book!

[Jessica Meetze · Rating 5 out of 5]

My kids and I thought it was very funny! I love the illustrations!

[Ann · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute for a bath storytime.

[Michele Knott · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jan Thomas is always perfect to introduce young readers who love humor in their stories!

[Steph]

Turn/Level: B/2

[Dana Gunderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Jan Thomas... Need I say more?

[Anthony · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rabbit and Weasel try to convince Pig that he needs a scrub in the tub, but Pig doesn't think he needs a scrub in the tub. What will it take to make Pig scrub in the tub?

[Caroline · Rating 3 out of 5]

A great read aloud - would work well for bath time. But I don’t think this is quite as charming as other Jan Thomas books

[Kirsten Murphy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just love Jan Thomas’ books with the humor and fun in the words and the illustrations and this book didn’t disappoint!

Connections:
* hygiene
* baths
* pigs
* rhyme

[Claudia · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one wasn't as funny to me as some other Jan Thas books, but little kids will still enjoy it.

[Angie Quantrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun bathtime scrub!

[Miss Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

A cute preschool and up book about an animal needing a bath and refusing to take one