I Survived the Joplin Tornado, 2011

On school visits, Tarshis is often asked which of the books in the series is her favorite, but she does not have a favorite. Each story “has a deep meaning” to her (90). What makes this one unique, however, is that “people from Joplin” suggested she write it (90). The stories about their experiences that they shared with her inspired her characters and plot. Tarshis notes that Joplin is a city that feels “like a small town” (91). The warmth and friendliness of the people showed her “why so many people who are born here never leave” (91).

The Joplin tornado “was the deadliest to hit America in fifty years” (91). Nearly a mile wide, it swept away entire neighborhoods, killed 158 people, and wounded more than 1,100 more. Visiting the city four years later, Tarshis struggled to believe that a third of the city had been destroyed. She also notes another question she is often asked: Why does she write about such depressing and scary events? She reveals that the series is not about the disasters but about people and their ability “to recover after experiencing something difficult or painful” (93). For Tarshis, the story of Joplin that she is honored to share is the strength of their community bonds and their resilience.