It has taken FOREVER to finally get my hands on The Aquanaut written by Canadian cave diver and underwater photographer Jill Heinerth. Illustrated by Jamie Kim it is a beautiful story about imagination and dreams. Judging by how long it took for my hold to come up, The Aquanaut is a favourite here in Toronto.

The Aquanaut shows young readers how dreams and imagination can lead them in so many different directions. Sometimes the things we think we want to be when we grow up are just jumping off points to what we eventually end up doing. Jill Heinerth wanted to be an astronaut but that dream changed and evolved over time. She still explores new worlds and teaches about her discoveries but instead of way up in space she dives deep into the most unexplored places on Earth.

The illustrations by Jamie Kim are incredible! Each spread fills two pages with colour and interest, capturing readers immediately. Thanks to designer John Martz the illustrations flip flop between spreads showing Jill as a child, dreaming and wondering, to spreads of Jill as an adult exploring and discovering. Such a brilliant way to showcase the beautiful and simple text.

All of the important pieces of the picture book have come together to create a brilliant visual masterpiece that will inspire readers to dream big! To learn more about Jill and all of the amazing things she is doing you can find her on her website https://www.intotheplanet.com/