Books to Read If You Love the I Survived Series

This historical fiction series follows girls facing disasters, wars, or deadly epidemics, such as the attack on Pearl Harbor, the Great Molasses Flood, and the Civil War. Each book weaves historical facts into a gripping, high-stakes story and shows how each brave girl uses their unique skills to overcome their situation and fight for survival. My daughter and I have read three of these books, and our favorite so far is the newest book: Cora and the Terrible Twister. Ages 8+

While on a trip to Indonesia, teenagers Jake and Tay, along with their dive instructor, become trapped on a rocky outcrop during a fierce storm. They’re terrified of the Komodo dragon lurking nearby, and need to figure out how to survive the night. This 18th I Escaped book stands out for its unique premise—few children’s fiction books feature Komodo dragons! My 12-year-old loved how facts about these reptiles were woven into an exciting, suspenseful narrative. With its action-packed plot, short chapters, and plenty of illustrations, this book is an excellent choice for reluctant readers. Ages 8+

Six kids, each with a troubled past, are sent on a “character-building” sailing trip. The program is supposed to teach them discipline and responsibility, but when a violent storm strikes and destroys their boat, the kids become stranded on a desert island. Written by award-winning author Gordon Korman, Shipwreck is fast-paced, with a gripping plotline and interesting characters. This first book ends in a total cliffhanger, so you might want to have the next two on hand for your reader! Ages 9+

Ranger the Golden Retriever is a lovable search-and-rescue dog who’s eager to help but struggles to stay focused during training—especially when squirrels are around! One day, Ranger is digging through the garden when he finds a buried first aid kit. This magical kit transports him to different historical periods, where he must help children in need before returning home. My son loved this series! We bought each book individually, depending on his interests, but the complete collection would make a perfect gift for any reader who loves animals and adventure. Ages 7+

This graphic novel details how the first American pilots in WWI actually fought for France as volunteers in the Lafayette Escadrille, a squadron named for the Marquis de Lafayette. It details how the volunteers joined the French army, how they learned to fly, and how many sacrificed their lives for America. Each Hazardous Tales book focuses on a different historical event or figure, using humor and comic-style storytelling to make learning history engaging and exciting for young readers. Ages 9+

In this historical fiction novel, 17-year-old Leo joins the Lusitania’s crew as a deckhand during World War I, convinced that the passenger ship’s speed will outrun German submarines. As the journey progresses, the passengers (who were warned repeatedly not to board the ship) become increasingly anxious about the potential danger. This is a gripping story of the events leading to the attack and sinking of the Lusitania. I was struck by how well the author incorporated historical detail into a fast-paced narrative. Highly recommended for older middle grade readers. Ages 10+

One year after her mother’s tragic death, Nora and her father head to Arizona on a climbing trip, hoping that this activity they did as a family would help bring them some peace. But when a sudden flash flood tears them apart, Nora is stranded deep in a canyon. As she battles the elements and her own internal demons, Nora must reach deep down inside her to find the courage to survive. Although the publisher recommends this book for ages 8-12, it tackles heavy themes like grief, losing a parent, and the aftermath of gun violence. Because of that, I’d suggest it for older middle school readers. However, readers will cheer for Nora as she finds hope, healing, and a way forward. Ages 10+

Seventh grader Hannah lives on a small island near Seattle, where she’s used to uneventful days and the safety of her community. When her mom asks her to babysit her neighbor’s two young children, Hannah expects an easy night—until a powerful earthquake strikes. With the island cut off from the mainland and the house badly damaged, Hannah and her neighbors are completely alone. As Hannah faces one challenge after another, she transforms from an uncertain girl into a determined and resilient young woman. We loved this inspiring story and appreciated how it naturally educates readers on preparing for natural disasters. Ages 9+

Sisters Abby, Emma, and Ollie used to be close, but their relationship has deteriorated into constant conflict. To salvage their relationship, their parents send the sisters to Camp Unplugged, a wilderness camp in the Idaho mountains. While on a disciplinary hike, the girls decide to ditch their counselor and head back alone—then find themselves very lost. The story shifts between past and present, giving readers insight into each sister’s perspective and the events that led to their broken relationship. Of all the books on the list, this one does the best job of portraying realistic sibling dynamics in intense survival situations. Highly recommend! Ages 9+

When we meet 12-year-old Jo, she’s on a 100-mile hike along Lake Superior with her mother—a trip originally planned with her father before their painful and unexpected divorce. As Jo and her mom struggle through the wilderness, she realizes the journey is about more than just proving to their father that they can survive on their own—it’s about resilience, growth, and finding inner strength. This inspiring adventure is perfect for all middle-grade readers, especially those experiencing family changes or self-doubt. Ages 9+

When former friends Henry, Frances, and Lukas discover a mysterious radio buried in Henry’s backyard, a radio that magically connects them with kids from 1944. As the kids interact across time,  they accidentally alter the past, eventually leading to a present-day America ruled by Nazis. This fast paced novel blends history, sci-fi, and dystopia with friendship dynamics, humor, and suspense to create a winning combination for middle grade readers. My 7th grader just finished this book and has already recommended it to several friends. A gripping story that examines how small choices can shape history.

In The Blizzard Challenge, Olly would rather be home playing video games than attending adventure camp. He doesn’t care at all about learning survival skills, but when he finds a mysterious compass, he’s transported to a high mountain range. There, he meets survival expert Bear Grylls, and suddenly, he’s challenged to survive in sub-zero temperatures! In this chapter book series, each child passes the compass along to another camper, who must face new challenges with Bear’s guidance. A fun, engaging series for young readers that teaches survival skills without feeling overwhelming or didactic. Ages 8+