The Aquanaut: A Graphic Novel

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of death and animal cruelty and death.

“It’s our life’s work! Take it, or this is all for nothing!”

The novel opens with a dramatic scene in which a death occurs, and Santat offers several clues that foreshadow future key objects, symbols, and events. Paul and Michel have worked tirelessly on their giant squid project, and Michel’s last wish (so Paul believes) is for him to continue it. Paul doesn’t see the wine bottle message until years later and devotes many years of his life to a failing project.

“We did what we thought was right.”

Paul’s crew members were sullen and distraught as the three of them sat together on the boat, lamenting Michel’s death. The crew pulled Paul out of the boat as it was sinking, believing that Paul had no chance of saving his brother. The result of this is that Paul has spent years feeling guilty and obligated to pursue Michel’s last project.

“Don’t forget about the science fair on Friday. Mrs. Wexler says you’ll have to totally ace the fair to pass the class.”

In this phone call from a friend, Santat initially characterizes Sophia’s character as someone who is easily distracted and not doing well in school. It initially shows that Sophia may have other things preoccupying her mind and energy, like grieving her father’s death and attempting to navigate the world without much adult support. Sophia’s desperation to “ace the fair” and “pass the class” leads her to take drastic measures and bring