Skip to main content
The AR Booklist
I Survived the Shark Attacks of 1916: A Graphic Novel (I Survived Graphic Novel #2) book cover

I Survived the Shark Attacks of 1916: A Graphic Novel (I Survived Graphic Novel #2)

by Lauren Tarshis

Scholastic Inc. 2020

Easy read — content targets 4th–8th grade

Reading level 3.1 (3rd grade) but themes aimed at ages 9–14

3rd grade English Juvenile Fiction
162
Pages
1
AR Points
50m
Read time
AR Quiz Available

Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.

Learn more about Accelerated Reading →

Genre

Historical Fiction

Themes

  • friendship
  • courage
  • survival
  • facing fears
  • community
  • resilience
  • responsibility

About this book

This gripping graphic novel retells the real-life 1916 New Jersey shark attacks through the eyes of Chet, a boy enjoying summer days with new friends. As alarming headlines spread, rumors and fear ripple through the town—and Chet must decide how to respond when danger feels close to home. Fast-paced panels, accessible text, and historical back matter make this a great pick for developing readers and history fans alike. Kids love the suspense, true-event connection, and bold artwork that bring the survival story to life.

Setting: coastal New Jersey (Jersey Shore and Matawan Creek), summer 1916

Frequently Asked Questions

Is I Survived the Shark Attacks of 1916: A Graphic Novel (I Survived Graphic Novel #2) right for my child?

It depends — here's what to consider for I Survived the Shark Attacks of 1916: A Graphic Novel (I Survived Graphic Novel #2). The reading level is AR 3.1, which is typical for 3rd grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 9–14 (4th–8th grade). Themes include friendship, courage, survival.

How long does it take to read I Survived the Shark Attacks of 1916: A Graphic Novel (I Survived Graphic Novel #2)?

At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, I Survived the Shark Attacks of 1916: A Graphic Novel (I Survived Graphic Novel #2) takes around 50m to finish. The book has 6,800 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.

Does I Survived the Shark Attacks of 1916: A Graphic Novel (I Survived Graphic Novel #2) have an AR quiz?

Yes — I Survived the Shark Attacks of 1916: A Graphic Novel (I Survived Graphic Novel #2) has an AR quiz available, worth 1 point. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.

What grade level is I Survived the Shark Attacks of 1916: A Graphic Novel (I Survived Graphic Novel #2)?

I Survived the Shark Attacks of 1916: A Graphic Novel (I Survived Graphic Novel #2) has an AR reading level of 3.1, which places it at a 3rd grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.