Lauren Tarshis' I Survived the American Revolution, 1776 captivates readers with its engaging narrative and historical accuracy. Young audiences find the protagonist relatable, enhancing the educational value of the Revolutionary War setting. Some critiques note a predictable plot and simplistic language but praise its accessibility for young readers. Overall, it's a commendable blend of history and adventure for middle graders.

Readers who enjoy adventure, historical fiction, and resilience tales, particularly those aged 8-12, will find I Survived the American Revolution, 1776 captivating. Similar to the Magic Tree House and Dear America series, it blends gripping storytelling with rich historical detail, perfect for young history enthusiasts or fans of survival narratives.

In Lauren Tarshis’s I Survived the American Revolution, 1776, young Nate navigates the turmoil of the American Revolutionary War, ultimately fighting in the Battle of Brooklyn. This historical novel explores themes of courage, sacrifice, and found family, also providing educational insights through illustrations of the era's uniforms, weapons, and geography. The book contains descriptions of enslavement, abuse, and wartime violence.

Adventurous / Suspenseful / Inspirational / Emotional

- The I Survived series by Lauren Tarshis includes both historical fiction and real-life disaster events, designed to engage young readers with thrilling and educational stories.
- Lauren Tarshis often incorporates extensive historical research into her books to accurately depict the events and experiences of the past.
- In I Survived the American Revolution, 1776, Lauren Tarshis paints a vivid picture of life during that tumultuous time, aiming to make the historical period accessible and relatable to children.

**Nate**  
An eleven-year-old boy who is the protagonist of the story, known for his loyalty to his loved ones and developing courage throughout the narrative as he navigates the challenges of the American Revolution.

**Paul**  
An eighteen-year-old with red hair and a gap-toothed grin, he starts as a prankster on Papa’s ship and later becomes a brave and protective soldier who is deeply loyal to Nate.

**Eliza**  
A kind and hardworking woman who is enslaved by Nate's uncle, Storch, she serves as a mother figure to Nate, offering him care and encouragement.

**Slash O’Shea**  
A legendary pirate hero in the stories passed down to Nate, known for his bravery and acts of robbing the rich to aid the needy, inspiring Nate during critical moments.

**Storch**  
Nate’s abusive uncle and a Loyalist supporter who runs a wealthy household in Connecticut, notoriously ill-mannered and cruel, particularly toward Nate, Eliza, and Theo.

**General George Washington**  
A historical leader depicted in the story through Nate's perspective, known for his elegant blue uniform and calm, powerful voice, leading the Continental Army with confidence.

Lauren Tarshis

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

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