The initial installment of the I Survived series, a collection of historical fiction books for middle-grade readers, is titled I Survived the Sinking of the Titanic, 1912. This book centers on George Calder, a young boy who finds himself aboard the ill-fated ocean liner during its voyage. The narrative follows his experiences and struggle for survival as the ship sinks. It served as the introduction to a series exploring various historical disasters through the eyes of child protagonists.
The significance of this inaugural book lies in its establishment of the series’ formula: blending historical events with accessible, character-driven storytelling. This approach benefits young readers by providing an engaging entry point to learn about significant moments in history, fostering empathy and understanding. Its historical context is crucial, as it recreates a pivotal event through a relatable perspective.