I Survived the California Wildfires, 2018: The Graphic Novel

I Survived Graphix #13

by Cassie Anderson (Illustrator), Lauren Tarshis

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.

Genres: Graphic Novels, Childrens, Historical Fiction, Middle Grade, Historical, Comics

160 pages, Paperback

Published February 3, 2026

Reviews

[Serenity · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I knew we had so many fires around the world in the last few years but, wow, unbelieveable how many. So many acres in California alone were burned because of wildfires. It used to be that firefighters would try to put out all the fires, but they came to realize that fires are good for forests. It gets rid of unhealthy trees and brush and makes way for new healthy growth to improve the areas. A lot of the time humans are to blame for the fires, but nature has started them too. Just so fascinating.

[Allison · Rating 4 out of 5]

I haven't read an I Survived book before (the graphic novels or the chapter books) so I thought with a new one coming out, it might be a good time to try them out! I definitely enjoyed this. It was very fast-paced and the artwork was great, with bright, vivid colors that will keep kids interested.

[Shelina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Josh and Holly are pretty tough kids. Showing positivity despite the tragedies that befell their dads, on top of getting caught in a wildfire? Tough indeed.

[Mauricio · Rating 5 out of 5]

it was my favorite i survived graphic novel

[Kathyj · Rating 4 out of 5]

read for a class visit :-)! i love the i survived series and its so cool to see the stories come to life in graphic novel format

[Everly Guest · Rating 4 out of 5]

These drawings are elaborate and I loved how heartfelt Lauren Tarshis is, and though she’s not afraid to have some really tough and hard conversations

[Trisha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Always a good read!

[Logan Hatchfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book it is a very good book!