The Big Aquarium Adventure

Discover what helps Stephen stay calm—frogs or skates?

Come with Alex & Jordan as they explore and write about Stephen’s visit to The Big Aquarium, where he is challenged by a shocking request! “Would you like to touch a clearnose skate?” His anxiety rises and he wants to scream and run away.

Alex learns of Stephen’s dilemma while he interviews him, then asks Jordan to research what a skate is. Then, Alex and Jordan write a narrative nonfiction story which includes life cycles and skeleton illustrations, and of course what Stephen chose to do!

With the information presented in three genres, struggling readers are better able to comprehend Stephen’s story. Reading comprehension strategies appear before and after each chapter so new readers can practice alone or with an adult. The content is geared towards fifth graders, but is a Lexile level of 630L (third grade).

The reader is not told that Stephen has autism, but some may recognize his headphones, and that he is triggered by a social interaction. Even though this book was designed for neurodivergent readers, any child ready for early chapter books will love the sea animal facts and Stephen’s story.

Informational fiction that is real, relatable, and relevant!