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I Survived The Shark Attacks Of 1916

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2010

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Book Brief

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Lauren Tarshis

I Survived The Shark Attacks Of 1916

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2010
Book Details
Pages

112

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New Jersey • 1910s

Publication Year

2010

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

610L

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Super Short Summary

I Survived the Shark Attacks of 1916 by Lauren Tarshis follows 10-year-old Chet Roscow living with his uncle in New Jersey during a summer plagued by shark attacks. Despite initial disbelief and a failed prank on his friends, Chet ultimately encounters a shark in Matawan Creek, undergoes a terrifying attack, and heroically warns the town, learning the value of friendship and community. The book includes themes of animal attacks and injury.

Suspenseful

Adventurous

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.4

16,035 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

I Survived The Shark Attacks Of 1916 by Lauren Tarshis is well-received for its thrilling and fast-paced narrative, engaging young readers with historical fiction. Positively noted for its educational value and action-filled plot, the book’s main criticism centers on its predictability and simplified language. Overall, it's praised as an accessible and exciting read for children.

Who should read this

Who Should Read I Survived The Shark Attacks Of 1916?

Readers who enjoy historical adventure novels with intense survival themes, particularly fans of Gary Paulsen's Hatchet, would find I Survived The Shark Attacks Of 1916 by Lauren Tarshis compelling. Ideal for middle-grade readers, it mixes real-life events with gripping fictionalized narratives.

4.4

16,035 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Chet Roscow

The protagonist who navigates the challenges of moving frequently due to his father's business ventures. His journey includes forming friendships and confronting fears, especially involving sharks.

Chet's uncle and caregiver in Elm Hills, providing stability and guidance. He runs the local diner and is a beloved figure in the community.

An elderly former whaling captain with firsthand knowledge of sharks. Initially not taken seriously by the townsfolk, he plays a crucial role in the story's climax.

The story's catalyst and antagonist, creating an atmosphere of tension and fear from the start. Its appearances drive key narrative events.

Book Details
Pages

112

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New Jersey • 1910s

Publication Year

2010

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

610L

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