Natsuki Kamata of SKE48 to Release Her First Children's Book 'I Asked an Aquarium Expert: 37 Discoveries That Will Make You Want to Go' on June 26!

**Kumon Publishing Co., Ltd. (President and Representative Director: Yoshinori Izumida) will publish a children's book titled 'I Asked an Aquarium Expert: 37 Discoveries That Will Make You Want to Go' on June 26, 2026. Co-authored by Natsuki Kamata, a 6th generation member of SKE48 who is active in various fields, and Minoru Shimomura, who has been involved in aquarium management for many years, the book compiles discoveries that will make you love aquariums even more.**

### I Asked an Aquarium Expert: 37 Discoveries That Will Make You Want to Go

Aquariums are located in various places, not limited to areas near oceans or rivers, and can be enjoyed regardless of the season or weather. As facilities where a diverse range of living creatures can be observed up close, they are highly popular not only among children but across a wide range of generations.

The authors of this book are Natsuki Kamata, an aquarium enthusiast and member of SKE48, an idol group based in Nagoya, and Minoru Shimomura, an aquarium expert who has been involved in the launch and operation of facilities such as Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan and Sumida Aquarium, and previously served as the director of Kyoto Aquarium.

Kamata, who frequently visits aquariums alongside her idol activities, directly interviewed the aquarium expert to find out how they take care of the creatures and what kind of ingenuity goes into the exhibits.

Compiling discoveries that will make you love aquariums even more, this book has become an enjoyable read for everyone regardless of age, despite being a children's book. It is a book that will make you think, 'I want to go to an aquarium next time' as you read through it.

### Publication Comments Arrive from the Two Authors!

[Minoru Shimomura]
I have talked a lot about the experiences and knowledge I've gained while being involved with aquariums. I believe that everyone who reads this book will definitely want to visit an aquarium.

[Natsuki Kamata]
In my 14th year as an idol, I am publishing a book related to aquariums! Blessed with a family who loves reading, I grew up with books since I was little.

I feel very happy and fortunate as a book lover to have been given the opportunity to write a book as a member of SKE48 this time! Touring an aquarium while receiving explanations from Mr. Shimomura, an aquarium expert, was more fun than ever before. When you learn about one thing, you encounter many more questions and want to know more. An aquarium is a place packed with such charm.

I have summarized the excitement I felt through my interviews at the aquarium in my own words. I hope this becomes a book that sparks excitement for people of all generations! Please enjoy it along with the cute illustrations and newly taken photos.

### Author Profiles

Minoru Shimomura
Born in Osaka Prefecture in 1965. Graduated from the Faculty of Agriculture, Kindai University. Was involved in the launch of Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan and subsequently worked there for over 30 years, primarily focusing on animal care. Later, he was involved in the launch of Kyoto Aquarium and Sumida Aquarium. After serving as the director of Kyoto Aquarium, he became the Director of Animal Husbandry and Exhibits at Shikoku Aquarium from 2020. Since April 2024, he has been the Director of the Japan Monkey Centre. Author of 'The World Seen Only by Aquarium Keepers: Every Day is Filled with Discovery and Emotion' (Natsumesha, 2024).

Natsuki Kamata
Born on August 29, 1996. From Aichi Prefecture.
Joined the group as a 6th generation member of SKE48 in November 2012.
Achieved her first selection in SKE48's 22nd single 'Muishiki no Iro' released in January 2018.
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