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I Survived the California Wildfires, 2018 (I Survived Graphic Novel #13)

I Survived the California Wildfires, 2018 (I Survived Graphic Novel #13)

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I Survived the California Wildfires, 2018 Graphic Novel

Author(s)

Lauren Tarshis

Co-Authors / Illustrators

Publisher

Graphix

Genre(s)

Age Range

Release Date

February 03, 2026

ISBN

978-1546137719

Buy This Book

A vividly rendered graphic novel adaptation of Lauren Tarshis's bestselling I Survived the California Wildfires, 2018, with text adapted by Georgia Ball and art by Cassie Anderson.

All across California, deadly wildfires rage . . .

Still reeling from the life-changing challenges that propelled him and his mother across the country, Josh finds solace in the California wilderness and in the newfound friendship with his cousin Holly.

But on a trip into the nearby forest, Josh and Holly suddenly find themselves in the middle of a frighteningly powerful firestorm, one which threatens to burn down everything in its path. Josh needs to confront the family issues burning him up inside, but first he'll have to survive the flames roaring all around him.

Lauren Tarshis’s New York Times bestselling I SURVIVED series blazes to life in this graphic novel edition. Perfect for readers who prefer the graphic novel format, or for existing fans of the I Survived chapter book series, these graphic novels combine historical facts with high-action storytelling that's sure to keep readers turning the pages. Includes a nonfiction section at the back with facts and photos about the real-life event.

Editor review

1 review

Exciting but Not for Every Reader

February 22, 2026 (Updated: June 08, 2026)

Overall rating

4.0

Plot

4.0

Characters

4.0

Writing Style

3.0

Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)

5.0

I Survived the California Wildfires, 2018 is an exciting graphic novel that does a great job of bringing a real-life disaster to life for a younger audience.

The illustrations are bold and action-packed, which really helps to capture the intensity and urgency of a wildfire. It’s clear a lot of care went into showing both the danger of the fire and the bravery of the characters facing it.

That said, my son didn’t connect with it as much as I hoped. He’s just not a huge fan of graphic novels, so the format didn’t pull him in the way a traditional book might. I can see how the fast-paced art style and visual storytelling might be perfect for other readers, especially kids who enjoy graphic novels or are already fans of the I Survived series.

Josh and his cousin, Holly, have to navigate both the immediate danger of the wildfire and the emotional challenges of being in such a stressful situation. The combination of historical context and personal courage makes the story feel realistic and relatable, even in graphic novel form, making for a gripping story!

Overall, it’s a strong entry in the I Survived series.
It’s well-done and educational, with high-quality illustrations and a thrilling story, but the graphic novel format may not be for every child. Still, if your reader enjoys visual storytelling or fast-paced survival stories, this one is worth a look.