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Kids Reading Across Rhode Island

About the Book

The Aquanaut

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.

 

About the Author

Dan Santat

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 dansantat.tumblr.com.

Resources

Public libraries are invited to participate in the May 13 Kids Reading Across RI kickoff event at the State House. This will be the first year that we have had an in-person event since 2019! The event is scheduled for 2pm-4pm and set-up begins at 1pm. It's a great opportunity to promote your library and summer reading program to families from all over the state. In the past libraries have had tables with activities related to the summer reading theme or the KRARI book. Your activity may be a simple hand’s on activity such as a coloring page or craft. Libraries may also use this as an opportunity to show off any new items they’d like to promote (circulating kits, STEM tools, etc.).  The event typically draws up to 300 people. Interested libraries can contact Danielle Margarida.

About the event:

Join us for our first in-person event since 2019 and meet award-winning author Dan Santat. Each family will receive a free copy of The Aquanaut that they can have signed by the author. Enjoy hands-on activities with RI public libraries and organizations.

Saturday, May 13, 2023
Doors open 2:00 - 4:00 PM
RI State House
Free parking in the State of RI lots

Participating libraries and organizations:

Making the Most of Your Book Discussion

  • Read Aloud
  • Lunch Bunch
  • Classroom Read
  • Book Club in a Bag
  • Repeating Discussion Group
  • Thematic Activities
  • Intergenerational Opportunities
  • Engage with the Author
  • Incentives

 

Sets of the 2023 KRARI selection The Aquanaut are available to schools and public libraries planning to lead a KRARI book discussion this spring and summer. Requests must be made using the appropriate form by March 31, 2023. Book sets will be delivered mid-April - May. For requests after the March 31 deadline contact Kate Lentz at kate@ribook.org. Requests made after the March 31 deadline will be fulfilled based on current availability of books.

Dan Santat Gets "The Call"