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Description
In 2011, while visiting his father's hometown in Japan shortly after his death, eleven-year-old Ben finds himself and his family being swept away by a terrible tsunami that leaves him stranded and alone in a strange country, far from home. Book #8
Quick Summary
Imagine being eleven, still grieving the loss of your dad, and then suddenly caught in a massive tsunami while visiting Japan that's the heart-pounding premise of Lauren Tarshis's latest "I Survived" entry. Ben's journey blends personal loss with raw survival action, and the short, punchy chapters make it impossible to put down even for kids who think they're not into historical fiction. It's a great pick for reluctant readers who want something quick and exciting, but it also gives series fans a richer look at Japanese culture and the real-world impact of the 2011 disaster. Parents will appreciate that the story is emotionally resonant without being overly graphic, and the focus on Ben's courage and resourcefulness offers plenty of teachable moments about resilience. If you've enjoyed other titles in the "I Survived" series, this one will feel familiar, yet the added layer of grief and cultural context makes it feel a bit more layered than most.