Product Description
Dive in to this whimsically adventurous graphic novel from Caldecott Medalist Dan Santat!
Ever since her father was lost at sea, Sophia has been moping around Aqualand, the marine theme park her dad and uncle created. But Sophia's world is turned upside down when an "aquanaut" breaks into the park's research lab.
To her amazement, Sophia discovers that the aquanaut is not what it seems -- inside lives a band of four goofy sea creatures! And when they all realize that Aqualand has evolved into something much darker than Sophia's dad had envisioned, Sophia is determined to help the aquanaut crew free the park's captive marine life before it's too late.
From School Library Journal
Gr 3–7—A tragic accident at sea claims the research vessel Miette and the life of its captain, renowned marine biologist Michel Revoy. Five years later, Michel's brother, Paul—also a marine biologist—is attempting to keep their research alive while raising Michel's daughter, Sophia, when Paul and Sophia make a shocking discovery: four of the sea creatures from the Miette have resurfaced! Disguising themselves as a human in Michel's old diving suit, the creatures search for safety at the Revoy-founded Aqualand marine reserve. Marigold and tangerine-orange coloring contrasts with shades of teal to help set the story's mood, which rotates between the light, comedic high jinks of extremely intelligent sea creatures and somber moments of loss, empathy, and understanding. Santat expertly uses numerous two-page spreads to provide a sense of scale, both to the various creatures and humans as well as to the world they are trying to navigate. In a story that requires some suspension of disbelief, it's the sea creatures who provide the most depth in their characterization as they overcome fear for their own safety to support those around them, leaving the humans to follow their lead toward a more just world. Multiple time jumps keep the story moving forward after big reveals, and back matter includes a creator's note and character sketches. VERDICT An endearing tale of love, loss, and the value of family—biological and found—this is recommended for readers who want gentle inspiration to do what is right, even if it involves compromise or sacrifice.—Alea Perez
Review
★ "Kinetic panel artwork impresses throughout, with smart pacing that swings between hilarity and suspense." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review
"The art in this graphic tale is something special... Santat's vividly expressive visuals are, even more than usual, riveting." -- Kirkus Reviews
"An endearing tale of love, loss, and the value of family -- biological and found." -- School Library Journal
"Poignant and often funny, The Aquanaut is Santat's triumphant return to the graphic novel genre." -- NPR
"A spirited and thrilling story." -- Shelf Awareness
"A humorous and heartwarming tale." -- BookPage
Praise for Sidekicks:
"Hilarious and heartfelt... a charming and well-told tale about friendship." -- Kazu Kibuishi, creator of Amulet
"The lovable menagerie of crime-fighting pets offers lots of laughs and a boisterous and exuberant storyline; Santat's illustrations are clear, engaging, and neatly stacked into easy-to-read panels." -- Kirkus Reviews
"Lively, insightful, and just plain fun, this convergence of capes and creatures will find a wide audience in animal lovers and superhero fans alike." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
About the Author
Dan Santat wrote and illustrated the graphic novel Sidekicks, and has also illustrated many acclaimed picture books, including The Guild of Geniuses and The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend, which won the Caldecott Medal. He lives in Alhambra, California, with his family. Visit his website at dantat.com.
