📘 I Survived Hurricane Katrina, 2005: The Graphic Novel

Words by Lauren Tarshis Illustrations by Alvin Epps

Genre/Category: This fulfills the graphic novel requirement. 

Target Age Group: Ages 4-8

Format Read: Physical Copy

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🌀 Plot Summary (1–2 Sentences)

This graphic novel adaptation tells the story of Barry Tucker, a young boy living in New Orleans, as he navigates the fear and chaos of Hurricane Katrina. Faced with rising floodwaters, separation from his family, and terrifying obstacles, Barry must find the strength and courage to survive one of the most devastating natural disasters in U.S. history.

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✅ Why I Chose This Book

I chose this book because the I Survived... series is incredibly popular among the children at our library, especially those who enjoy fast-paced, historical fiction. I was also drawn to the topic of Hurricane Katrina because I’ve always been fascinated by hurricanes and wanted to learn more about this specific event through a child’s perspective.

🔍 Evaluation

1. Character 
Barry Tucker is one of the strongest and bravest characters I’ve read in a while, he gave me major Percy Jackson vibes! Although he’s only eleven, Barry shows incredible maturity, especially when he calmly comforts his younger sister in a terrifying situation. When he's swept away by floodwaters, scratched by debris, and forced to climb through a broken window, he never gives up. What really stood out was when he risked his own life to save Cruz, a dog owned by a former bully. That moment showed not just bravery, but compassion. As I read, I kept thinking of my little brother who’s around Barry’s age, and it really put into perspective how incredible Barry's strength was in the face of disaster.

2. Illustrations 

The illustrations added an intense layer of realism to the story. One image that stuck with me was the depiction of the floodwaters rising so high that only a tiny triangle of the attic window was visible. The details throughout the novel, from the water damage to the characters' facial expressions, helped bring the emotional weight of the story to life. I also think that graphic novels help transition young readers from picture books to chapter books.

3. Mood/Tone
With a title like I Survived, readers can expect suspense, and this book absolutely delivers. The pacing kept me hooked, I thought it would take me longer to finish, but I flew through it because each scene built more tension. For example, when Barry falls off the roof and gets swept away, I couldn’t stop reading until I found out what happened next. The tone balances fear, action, and hope in a way that’s gripping and age-appropriate. 

📚 Reference
Tarshis, L. (2022). I survived Hurricane Katrina, 2005: The graphic novel (A. Epps, Illus.). Graphix..