53 pages • 1 hour read
Lifeboat 12
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Book Brief
336
Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction
Atlantic Ocean • 1940s
2018
Middle grade
10-14 years
610L
Super Short Summary
Lifeboat 12 by Susan Hood is a middle-grade historical-fiction novel in verse set during World War II. It chronicles the true story of 13-year-old Ken Sparks, a survivor from the SS City of Benares, which was evacuating children from England to Canada. When the ship is attacked by German torpedoes, Ken and other passengers must escape in lifeboats and struggle for survival at sea while awaiting rescue. Topics of war and death are central to the narrative.
Suspenseful
Challenging
Inspirational
Emotional
Adventurous
Reviews & Readership
5,451 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Lifeboat 12 by Susan Hood is praised for its engaging verse format, historical accuracy, and powerful storytelling, making the WWII survival story highly accessible to young readers. Critics appreciate the well-researched background and emotional depth. However, some mention that the format may not appeal to all readers. Overall, it is a compelling and educational read.
Who Should Read Lifeboat 12?
For fans of The War That Saved My Life and Lilac Girls, Lifeboat 12 by Susan Hood will captivate readers aged 10-14 who are drawn to poignant WWII stories, survival tales, and historical adventures. Its narrative in verse makes it a compelling, quick read for young history enthusiasts seeking emotional and inspiring stories.
5,451 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
336
Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction
Atlantic Ocean • 1940s
2018
Middle grade
10-14 years
610L
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.