Intro
Create a thrilling survival story with our expert guide. Discover the 7 essential steps to craft a captivating I Survived book template, perfect for writing engaging narratives. Learn how to weave suspense, drama, and historical fiction elements into a gripping tale that will leave readers on the edge of their seats.
Lauren Tarshis's I Survived series has captured the hearts of many young readers with its gripping and informative storytelling. The series' unique blend of historical fiction and survival stories has made it a staple in many classrooms and homes. If you're an educator, writer, or simply a fan of the series, you might be interested in creating your own I Survived book template. Here's a 7-step guide to help you get started:
Understanding the I Survived Series
Before creating your own template, it's essential to understand the key elements that make the I Survived series so engaging. The series typically features:
- A relatable protagonist who faces a historical disaster or challenging event
- A mix of fiction and non-fiction elements, with a focus on historical accuracy
- Fast-paced, suspenseful storytelling
- Illustrations and graphics that enhance the narrative
- A focus on survival and resilience
Key Themes and Elements
Some common themes and elements in the I Survived series include:
- Historical events, such as natural disasters, wars, or pandemics
- Personal struggles and relationships
- Emotional journeys and character growth
- Historical figures and events woven into the narrative
- A focus on STEM concepts, such as science, technology, engineering, and math
Step 1: Choose a Historical Event
Select a historical event or disaster that sparks your interest and will engage your readers. Some ideas might include:
- A natural disaster, such as the San Francisco earthquake or Hurricane Katrina
- A major historical event, such as the American Revolution or the sinking of the Titanic
- A pandemic or outbreak, such as the Spanish flu or the COVID-19 pandemic
Step 2: Develop Your Protagonist
Create a relatable and engaging protagonist who will drive the story forward. Consider the following:
- Age and background: What is your protagonist's age, family, and social status?
- Personality: What are their strengths, weaknesses, and motivations?
- Goals: What does your protagonist want to achieve, and how do they plan to do it?
Character Development
Some key characteristics of I Survived protagonists include:
- Relatability: Readers should be able to identify with the protagonist's struggles and emotions.
- Resourcefulness: Protagonists often rely on their wits and resourcefulness to survive.
- Emotional depth: Protagonists experience a range of emotions, from fear to resilience.
Step 3: Research and Outline
Conduct thorough research on your chosen historical event and create an outline for your story. Consider the following:
- Historical accuracy: Ensure that your story is grounded in factual events and details.
- Plot structure: Create a clear narrative arc, including rising action, climax, and resolution.
- Character development: How will your protagonist grow and change throughout the story?
Step 4: Write Your Story
Using your research and outline, start writing your story. Remember to:
- Use descriptive language and sensory details to bring the story to life.
- Balance action, dialogue, and narrative to create a engaging pace.
- Show, don't tell: Allow readers to infer character traits and emotions through action and dialogue.
Writing Tips
Some writing tips for creating an I Survived-style story include:
- Use short chapters and cliffhangers to build suspense.
- Incorporate historical figures and events to add depth and accuracy.
- Use illustrations and graphics to enhance the narrative and break up text.
Step 5: Edit and Revise
Once you've completed your first draft, revise and edit your work. Consider the following:
- Clarity: Ensure that your writing is clear and concise.
- Pacing: Check that your story has a good balance of action, dialogue, and narrative.
- Character consistency: Ensure that your protagonist's actions and emotions are consistent throughout the story.
Step 6: Illustrate and Design
Add illustrations and graphics to enhance your story and make it more engaging. Consider the following:
- Style: Choose an illustration style that fits your story and tone.
- Content: Ensure that your illustrations are accurate and add to the narrative.
- Placement: Use illustrations to break up text and create a visually appealing layout.
Design Tips
Some design tips for creating an I Survived-style book include:
- Use a clear and easy-to-read font.
- Choose a color scheme that fits your story and tone.
- Use white space effectively to create a visually appealing layout.
Step 7: Share and Publish
Once you've completed your book, share it with others and consider publishing options. You can:
- Share your book with students, colleagues, or online communities.
- Self-publish your book through online platforms or local publishers.
- Submit your book to publishers or literary agents for consideration.
We hope this 7-step guide has helped you create your own I Survived book template. Remember to have fun and be creative throughout the process!
Gallery of I Survived Book Template
I Survived Book Template Gallery
Share your thoughts on creating an I Survived book template in the comments below! What historical events or themes would you like to explore in your own story?