Did you know that in 1800s England, children as young as nine were sent to prison colonies? Most never saw their parents again. In our story, two young brothers are unfairly accused and shipped to the bottom of the world. Experience their challenges and adventures in this middle-grade book that makes you grateful for modern times!

The year is 1836 in dirty, crowded London. Thomas and his little brother Jem are unfairly accused of petty theft. They’re banished from England to a boy’s prison in Australia! But first, they must survive a harsh journey by ship across the ocean to a remote island where conditions are even worse. When Jem becomes ill and is threatened by bullies, Thomas must protect his little brother. Against all odds, he must find a way home. But the prison is surrounded by an ocean teeming with sharks, and the bushland is crawling with strange animals and bandits. How will they ever escape?

Based on true facts about the 1800’s Point Puer boy’s prison in Tasmania.

This is the 12th children’s book in the I Escaped Series about brave girls and boys who face real-world challenges and find ways to escape disaster. Sure to appeal to fans of Escape from Alcatraz by Eric Mark Braun, New York Times Bestseller Lauren Tarshis’s I Survived Series, The Sun Does Shine by Anthony Ray Hinton, and Where Is Alcatraz (Where Is Series).

The short chapters make for easy wins, and Thomas’s gripping situation keeps even reluctant readers turning pages just to find out what will happen next.

Great for kids’ book clubs and classrooms–a study guide is available at https: //scottpetersbooks.com/worksheets

Packed with a special section on facts about Tasmania’s Point Puer boy’s prison that’s sure to satisfy curious minds.

Each chapter contains at least one black and white illustration to help readers visualize.

The included map lets readers plot the journey.

Flesch Reading Ease: 85.6 Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level 3.2

An essential, relevant read about bravery, kindness, and courage.

Collect the whole I Escaped Series.

a must for every reading list

Can the brothers survive disaster? Read it and find out!