The Aquanaut is a true story of an adventurous, young girl who uses her imagination to dream of her future as an aquanaut. Everything she wants to do but is told, “when you are older,” she instead recreates in her mind. The story takes readers on a journey with vibrant illustrations by Jaime Kim, to show her ambitions, followed with some wordless illustrations to show how she now fulfils those dreams as a real aquanaut.

The words and illustrations are creatively chosen to show the connection between her thoughts as a young girl and how they play out in her current career. This story can be used to prompt children to share their dreams and aspirations and to imagine the impact they can make in the world. It also allows them to explore their purpose in the world and further help identify personal character traits and a sense of self. Themes like having a growth mindset can help instill the drive to achieve dreams that students have.

When looking at curriculum connections, this book will fit nicely into the 2022 Ontario Science Curriculum, especially earth sciences and life systems (Life below the land). Students can explore plants and animals living underwater, current problems with their habitats and how we can help support healthy ecosystems. It ties in nicely to the new curriculum when looking at contributions and connections with science and real-world occupations as well. At the end of the book, an Author’s Note section is included with real-life pictures of the author, Jill Heinerth, exploring underwater life as an aquanaut.

Overall, The Aquanaut is a nice story suitable for the Primary and Junior grades as it promotes valuable discussions and provocations for study. Written by the Aquanaut herself, Jill Heinerth, it is a story sure to inspire many children.

Manprit Rai is a member of the Peel Elementary Teacher Local.