Imani's Undersea Adventure

Imani's Undersea Adventure

Discover an ocean of Black History with Imani! Imani doesn't like sharks. They have big mouths, filled with big teeth, perfect for eating small children like her. But when Grandpapa takes Imani to the aquarium, she learns about marine biologists and scuba divers - clever people who study and swim with sharks! As Imani discovers the treasures of the deep, she realizes that the ocean is not always a scary place. And it turns out the seabed holds other secrets too... This fun educational read is filled with pioneering African Americans who are sure to inspire the next generation of marine biologists from all over the world. Imani's story allows parents and caregivers to have important conversations with young readers about difficult aspects of history in a child-friendly, age-appropriate context. Imani's Undersea Adventure by T.M. Jackson is one of the best children's books I have read. Here's the story of a little girl and her grandfather visiting an aquarium containing sharks. As they visit, her grandfather provides her with wonderful facts about the sharks in the tanks. Equally as important, he educates her with an engaging part of history about African Americans and their roles in marine science. The first great aspect of this story is the way in which the author has given us these two generations of young and old. Little Imani is filled with the kinds of questions natural to a child and that only someone with her grandfather's knowledge and experience could answer in such detail. The book is packed with important history and facts that educate not only children but adults who don't know the things contained within it. Author T.M. Jackson concludes the book with links to excellent sources designed to introduce black children to aquatics and marine sciences. In all, the story provides history and insight, and inspiration all by way of helping a little girl to know she is more than she'd previously imagined. Kathy Golden for Readers' Favorite Imani's Undersea Adventure, written by T. M. Jackson and illustrated by Darwin Marfil, is a children's picture book that revolves around the titular character, a young girl named Imani, and a day she spends with her Grandpapa. Imani looks through the glass into a massive shark reef aquarium and immediately expresses emotions of fear and discomfort. Grandpapa explains to her that sharks aren't nearly as scary as they look or as they are frequently made out to be... Grandpapa describes in detail the work marine biologists do and the inextricable link between black history and the ocean...Imani comes to understand the strides black Americans have made and returns to the tank inspired by those who paved the way before her and her own future...one that no longer includes a fear of sharks. Imani's Undersea Adventure is an outstanding piece of children's literature with a message that is clear, leaving no room for the ambiguity that often clouds a lesson written with a softer touch. And I am so grateful for it. T. M. Jackson writes with intent and authority, conveying truth through a grandfather who wants to be certain his granddaughter knows the journey her family and black Americans are fighting to rise up from. Imani has more than her Grandpapa did but it still isn't all she deserves. There needs to be more than just three framed photos of black women who have pioneered STEM through their work as marine biologists and Imani has the potential to make that happen. Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite Imani's Undersea Adventure is a fantastic children's book...What T. M. Jackson does so well is incorporate facts about black history seamlessly into the story. As a former children's librarian, this is exactly the type of book that I would purchase for my library. The story is engaging and positive and presents information that most young children don't get exposed to in a very accessible way. Imani's Undersea Adventure is an uplifting story that will encourage all kids, especially young black girls, to pursue their dreams. I highly recommend Imani's Undersea Adventure for all public and school libraries! Kristine Zimmerman for Readers' Favorite A government analyst and a Navy veteran who takes pride in her experience. With over 20 years as an Executive Administrator, Ms. Jackson has expertise in forging constructive corporate communications to help infuse diversity of viewpoints, increase feelings of individual and organizational value, and enhance transparency in decision-making.Originally from Southern California, her naval career allowed her to travel and reside globally. As a Sailor she developed leadership skills, embraced diversity, and excelled at team building upholding the Navy core values of "Honor, Courage, and Commitment. "Apart from her career, she is an advocate of empowering others. As a life coach she enjoys helping others determine, strategize and map their life goals. Her motto is "Knowledge is useless if not practiced and sha