Lauren Tarshis's 26th I Survived book transports readers deep into one of the most breathtaking - and dangerous - places on Earth: Botswana's Okavango Delta. This remote wilderness bursts with life, sheltering more lions, elephants, and dazzling (and deadly) creatures than almost anywhere else on the planet.

Eleven-year-old Dylan is still reeling from the injury that shattered his all-star Little League dreams back home in Boston. His film-maker older sister offers him the trip of a lifetime: to travel with her as she films a world-famous lion expert in the heart of southern Africa.

Dylan's days in the wilds of Botswana are filled with awe and wonder - elephants splashing in lagoons, leopards growling under star-lit skies, herds of zebras racing through golden grasslands, glittering snakes basking on tree branches - until disaster strikes.

A plane crash hurls Dylan into the unforgiving wilderness, where deadly creatures are on the prowl. Alone, injured, and terrified, Dylan must summon every ounce of strength and as he faces the deadliest predator of all: the African lion.

Published
September 15, 2026

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I Survived

The series

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In I Survived, history comes to life through the eyes of young protagonists who face some of the most unforgettable and terrifying events the world has ever seen. Each book in this gripping series takes readers on a journey through history, where disaster strikes, but survival is the ultimate triumph. From natural catastrophes like hurricanes and volcanic eruptions to the chaos of war and political unrest, the characters in this series are thrust into life-or-death situations that challenge everything they thought they knew about bravery, fear, and the human spirit.

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What makes I Survived stand out is its ability to blend historical events with relatable, heartfelt stories of survival. Every young hero in the series is thrown into a world of danger, yet each narrative is infused with hope and resilience. Whether it's a young girl surviving the attack on Pearl Harbor or a boy trying to escape the destruction of the Titanic, the characters' emotional journeys are as captivating as the historical events themselves. The authenticity and emotional depth of these stories give readers a unique perspective on some of the most significant moments in history.

The series not only educates but also empowers. By focusing on young survivors, it encourages readers to confront challenges in their own lives, showing them that, no matter how overwhelming a situation may seem, strength and courage can make all the difference. The historical accuracy paired with fast-paced, gripping storytelling creates an immersive reading experience that resonates long after the last page is turned.

Whether you're a young reader looking for adventure or an educator seeking a way to make history feel immediate and real, I Survived offers a collection of unforgettable stories that prove, no matter the odds, survival is always possible.

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