The question "who is the author of i survived" appears frequently among readers researching the series. These books present historical disasters through a child survivor lens, and understanding the creator helps contextualize research notes and educational use.
Below is a structured overview of key facts about the series, followed by thematic sections and practical guidance for teachers, librarians, and young readers.
| Title | Author | Primary Setting | Target Age |
|---|---|---|---|
| I Survived the Shark Attacks of 1916 | Lauren Tarshis | New Jersey, 1916 | 8–12 |
| I Survived the Japanese Tsunami, 2011 | Otsuchi, Japan | ||
| I Survived Hurricane Katrina, 2005 | New Orleans, Louisiana | ||
| I Survived the Bombing of Pearl Harbor, 1941 | Oahu, Hawaii | ||
| I Survived the American Revolution, 1776 | New York City |
About Lauren Tarshis as Writer
Background and Career Path
Lauren Tarshis is the author of the core "I Survived" chapter books and serves as Senior Editor for Children’s Books at Scholastic. She previously worked as a teacher and educational publisher, which informs her approach to clear storytelling and age appropriate pacing.
Research and Fact Checking Process
Each title blends narrative fiction with documented events, and Tarshis collaborates with historians and archival material to maintain accuracy. The balance between dramatic scenes and factual detail is designed to support classroom discussion around primary sources.
Historical Settings and Real Events
Integrating History into Fiction
The series anchors each story to a specific disaster or conflict, using timelines, photographs, and period details. This structure supports social studies curricula while keeping emotional stakes centered on a young protagonist.
Geographic and Temporal Range
From colonial ports to modern coastlines, the books traverse multiple eras, helping readers connect personal survival stories to broader historical patterns. Maps, dates, and contextual notes appear in back matter.
Educational Use in Classrooms
Lesson Planning and Reading Levels
Teachers often use these titles for guided reading, literature circles, or history units, thanks to Lexile ranges and discussion questions provided by publishers. The first person perspective invites analysis of point of view and cause and effect.
Cross Curricular Connections
Units may link science topics like weather systems with social studies themes of community resilience, while extension projects can include timelines, primary source comparisons, and persuasive writing about disaster preparedness.
Reader Engagement and Series Structure
Narrative Style and Accessibility
Short chapters, cliffhangers, and accessible vocabulary support reluctant readers, while capable readers appreciate the deeper historical research. The recurring framing device of a young narrator answering emergency prompts adds consistent structure across titles.
Series Evolution and New Editions
As the series expands to include more events and updated back matter, readers benefit from revised maps, sidebars on technology, and notes on how communities rebuild. These revisions reflect feedback from educators and young readers.
Using I Survived Resources Effectively
- Identify the historical event and confirm dates, locations, and primary sources.
- Compare fictional scenes with nonfiction accounts to discuss accuracy and perspective.
- Use maps and timelines to track character decisions and real world impact.
- Leverage back matter materials for projects, including glossaries, photo sections, and expert notes.
- Coordinate with librarians to select appropriate editions and supplemental materials for curriculum goals.
FAQ
Reader questions
Who is the author of i survived books?
Lauren Tarshis is the primary author of the core "I Survived" chapter book series published by Scholastic.
Are there different authors for the graphic novels or companion books?
Graphic novel adaptations are illustrated by Scott Wegener, while other companion or spin off titles may involve co authors or Scholastic editors, but Lauren Tarshis writes the main narrative arcs.
Does Lauren Tarshis write other series besides i survived?
Yes, she also contributes to school magazines, creates classroom resources, and has worked on other nonfiction and fiction projects for young audiences through Scholastic.
How can I verify author information for classroom use?
Check the copyright page of each book, the Scholastic website author profile, or publisher media kits for official bios, interview transcripts, and reading level details.