The I Survived books are a popular book series for children and young readers. These books are written by Lauren Tarshis, a well-known author who likes to teach history in a fun and exciting way. Each book tells a dramatic story about a real historical disaster. The story is told through the eyes of a young character who lived through that event. These books help kids learn about history while also feeling the courage and strength of the characters.
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What Are the I Survived Books?
The I Survived series is a group of historical fiction books. That means the events are real—like the sinking of the Titanic—but the characters are fictional. Each book tells one fast-moving story of danger, challenge, and survival.
The stories are not boring like many history books. They are exciting and easy to read. Kids can feel like they are right there with the characters in the middle of a storm, battle, or disaster.
Who Wrote the I Survived Series?
The author is Lauren Tarshis. She is an American writer and editor. She works with Scholastic, a big company that publishes books for schools and children. Tarshis writes using careful research so that each story feels close to what could have happened in real life.
Lauren Tarshis chose disasters that kids can understand. Then she creates a young main character who feels scared, brave, confused, and hopeful—through the whole event.
What Happens in These Books?
Every I Survived book is about one major disaster. The stories are short—usually around 100 pages—but they are packed with action. In each book:
- A child faces a big disaster.
- They have to act fast and stay strong.
- The book shows real fear, real danger, and real courage.
- At the end, the reader learns about the strength of people and history.
The disasters are real historical events like the sinking of the Titanic or Hurricane Katrina. But the character’s names and personal stories are made up to help readers feel connected.
Some Popular Book Titles
There are many I Survived books (more than 25 so far). Below are some you might know:
- I Survived the Sinking of the Titanic, 1912
- I Survived the Shark Attacks of 1916
- I Survived Hurricane Katrina, 2005
- I Survived the Bombing of Pearl Harbor, 1941
- I Survived the San Francisco Earthquake, 1906
- I Survived the Attacks of September 11, 2001
These books cover disasters from long ago and more recent events.
Who Should Read the I Survived Books?
The I Survived series is best for kids age 7 and up. This is because the books show scary moments and big events—but not in a way that is too hard for children to understand.
The stories are fast and easy to read, so kids who struggle with reading still find them exciting. Many teachers and librarians use these books to help young readers enjoy reading more.