Picture an American storyteller who turned history’s most heart-pounding moments into gripping tales for kids—meet Lauren Tarshis! Born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, this bestselling author of the I Survived series has sold over 30 million copies, captivating young readers with stories of resilience and adventure. From shipwrecks to wildfires, Tarshis’s books make history leap off the page, while her work as an editor shapes young minds.
But Tarshis’s journey to literary stardom wasn’t straightforward. Overcoming early reading struggles, she transformed her challenges into a passion for storytelling that inspires kids worldwide. Let’s dive into the life, works, and impact of this remarkable author!
The Making of Lauren Tarshis
Born on November 23, 1963, in Albuquerque, Lauren Tarshis grew up in a family that valued education—her mother taught special education, and her father was a freelance writer. Raised in New York City, young Lauren faced reading difficulties that made school a challenge. It wasn’t until high school, when a teacher assigned A Tale of Two Cities, that she discovered the joy of reading by slowly savoring each paragraph. This breakthrough sparked a lifelong love of stories. After graduating from Barnard College, Tarshis wrote for the Columbia Daily Spectator, honing her craft. Her career took a pivotal turn when she became editor of Storyworks, a Scholastic magazine for kids, where she immersed herself in children’s literature to catch up on the classics she’d missed.
Lauren Tarshis’s Unforgettable Stories
Tarshis’s writing shines in her I Survived series, launched in 2010 with I Survived the Sinking of the Titanic, 1912. These fast-paced historical fiction novels, aimed at grades 3–5, plunge readers into disasters like the San Francisco Earthquake or the Black Death through the eyes of a young protagonist. With 23 books by 2023, the series is a global hit, translated into ten languages and illustrated by Scott Dawson. Tarshis’s meticulous research—she’s visited sites like Pompeii and Normandy—brings authenticity to every page, while her focus on resilience resonates with kids.
Beyond I Survived, Tarshis penned Emma-Jean Lazarus Fell Out of a Tree (2007), a Golden Kite honor book and Oprah’s Book Club pick. This charming novel follows a logical seventh-grader navigating friendships, earning praise for its anti-bullying themes. Its sequel, Emma-Jean Lazarus Fell in Love, continues the heartwarming saga. Tarshis also wrote three I Survived True Stories nonfiction books, like Five Epic Disasters, blending real-life accounts with her signature storytelling. Her graphic novel adaptations, such as I Survived the Shark Attacks of 1916, make history accessible to reluctant readers.
Her style is vivid yet approachable, weaving historical facts with emotional depth. Tarshis doesn’t shy away from tough topics—wars, genocides, or natural disasters—but frames them with hope, making her books both educational and inspiring.
Why Lauren Tarshis Matters
Lauren Tarshis has transformed how kids engage with history. Her I Survived series doesn’t just teach facts; it fosters empathy and courage, showing young readers they can overcome adversity. Schools use her books in anti-bullying programs and curricula, with over 30 million copies sold, proving her global reach. As Senior Vice President and Editor-in-Chief of Scholastic’s Classroom Magazine Division, Tarshis shapes educational content for millions, amplifying her impact. Her talks at schools and libraries, where she shares her reading struggles, inspire kids to persevere.
By blending heart, history, and hope, Tarshis has carved a unique niche in children’s literature. Her work encourages a love for reading and resilience, leaving a lasting legacy for young readers and educators alike.
About Lauren Tarshis
- Born: November 23, 1963, in Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Key Works: I Survived series, Emma-Jean Lazarus Fell Out of a Tree
- Awards: Golden Kite Honor, Oprah’s Book Club pick
- Fun Fact: She learned to read fluently in high school with A Tale of Two Cities!
Ready for a thrilling journey through history? Grab I Survived the Sinking of the Titanic, 1912 and dive into Lauren Tarshis’s gripping world of survival and hope!