How Many Books Are in the I Survived Series: A Journey Through Historical Disasters and Fictional Resilience

How Many Books Are in the I Survived Series: A Journey Through Historical Disasters and Fictional Resilience

The I Survived series, written by Lauren Tarshis, has captivated young readers with its thrilling narratives of children facing some of history’s most harrowing events. But how many books are in the I Survived series? As of October 2023, there are 23 books in the main series, each focusing on a different historical disaster or event. From the sinking of the Titanic to the attacks of September 11, the series combines factual history with fictional storytelling to create an engaging and educational experience for readers. However, the number of books is not just a statistic—it’s a gateway to exploring how these stories resonate with readers and why they continue to be so popular.


The Appeal of the I Survived Series

The I Survived series stands out for its unique blend of history and fiction. Each book places a young protagonist in the middle of a real-life catastrophe, allowing readers to experience the event through their eyes. This approach not only makes history accessible but also helps children develop empathy and resilience. For instance, in I Survived the Sinking of the Titanic, 1912, readers follow 10-year-old George as he navigates the chaos of the ship’s final hours. The story is filled with tension and emotion, but it also provides historical context, such as the class divisions on the ship and the engineering flaws that led to its demise.

The series also excels at balancing education with entertainment. While the books are packed with historical facts, they never feel like textbooks. Instead, they read like fast-paced adventures, complete with cliffhangers and dramatic twists. This makes them particularly appealing to reluctant readers who might otherwise shy away from historical fiction.


The Evolution of the Series

Since the first book was published in 2010, the I Survived series has grown significantly. The initial books focused on well-known disasters, such as the Titanic and the attacks on Pearl Harbor. However, as the series expanded, Tarshis began to explore lesser-known events, such as the Great Molasses Flood of 1919 (I Survived the Great Molasses Flood, 1919) and the Children’s Blizzard of 1888 (I Survived the Children’s Blizzard, 1888). This shift not only broadens the scope of the series but also introduces readers to events they might not encounter in traditional history lessons.

In addition to the main series, Tarshis has also released graphic novel adaptations of some of the books. These adaptations bring the stories to life in a new way, combining vivid illustrations with the gripping narratives. For example, I Survived the Shark Attacks of 1916: The Graphic Novel retains the tension of the original story while adding a visual dimension that appeals to younger readers.


Themes of Resilience and Hope

One of the most compelling aspects of the I Survived series is its focus on resilience. Each protagonist faces unimaginable challenges, but they find the strength to persevere. This theme is particularly relevant for young readers, who may be dealing with their own struggles. By showing characters who overcome adversity, the series sends a powerful message: no matter how difficult the situation, there is always hope.

For example, in I Survived the Attacks of September 11, 2001, 11-year-old Lucas struggles with fear and uncertainty after witnessing the collapse of the Twin Towers. However, with the help of his family and community, he begins to rebuild his life. This story not only honors the victims of 9/11 but also highlights the importance of resilience and solidarity in the face of tragedy.


The Educational Value of the Series

Beyond their entertainment value, the I Survived books are a valuable educational resource. Each book includes a section at the end that provides additional historical context, such as timelines, photographs, and author’s notes. These sections help readers understand the real-life events behind the stories and encourage them to explore history further.

Teachers and parents have praised the series for its ability to spark curiosity and discussion. For instance, after reading I Survived the Battle of Gettysburg, 1863, students might be inspired to learn more about the Civil War or visit a historical site. Similarly, I Survived the Eruption of Mount St. Helens, 1980 could lead to discussions about natural disasters and environmental science.


The Future of the Series

With 23 books and counting, the I Survived series shows no signs of slowing down. Tarshis has hinted at future installments that could explore events such as the COVID-19 pandemic or the sinking of the Lusitania. These new additions will likely continue to balance historical accuracy with compelling storytelling, ensuring that the series remains a favorite among young readers.

Moreover, the success of the graphic novel adaptations suggests that the series could expand into other formats, such as animated series or interactive e-books. These innovations would not only attract new readers but also provide fresh ways to engage with the stories.


  1. What age group is the I Survived series intended for?
    The series is primarily aimed at readers aged 7–12, but its engaging storytelling and historical depth make it enjoyable for older readers as well.

  2. Are the I Survived books based on real events?
    Yes, each book is based on a real historical event, though the protagonists and their personal stories are fictional.

  3. What is the most popular book in the series?
    I Survived the Sinking of the Titanic, 1912 is often cited as the most popular, likely due to the enduring fascination with the Titanic disaster.

  4. Are there any plans for a movie adaptation of the series?
    As of now, there are no official plans for a movie adaptation, but the series’ popularity makes it a strong candidate for future film or television projects.

  5. How does Lauren Tarshis research the events for her books?
    Tarshis conducts extensive research, including reading historical accounts, visiting museums, and consulting with experts, to ensure the accuracy of her stories.