In Hatchet by Gary Paulsen, thirteen-year-old Brian Robeson must survive in the Canadian wilderness after a plane crash leaves him stranded. Facing challenges such as finding food and building shelter, Brian uses a hatchet his mother gave him to endure his ordeal and gain newfound self-reliance and adaptability. The story is a gripping tale of resilience and personal growth. The book includes themes of divorce and infidelity.

Gary Paulsen's Hatchet is highly acclaimed for its gripping narrative and well-crafted portrayal of survival, engaging young readers with vivid descriptions and an immersive storyline. Critics praise the protagonist's development and realistic challenges. Some note repetitive elements and occasional pacing issues, but overall, it's lauded as a compelling read for adolescents.

A reader who would enjoy Hatchet by Gary Paulsen is typically a young adult or middle-grade reader interested in survival adventures, resilience, and personal growth. Fans of books like My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George or Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell will find this novel compelling and inspiring.

Adventurous / Challenging / Inspirational / Contemplative / Hopeful

- Hatchet was inspired by Gary Paulsen's own experiences and love for the wilderness, reflecting his time spent living in a remote cabin in Minnesota.
- The book has earned numerous awards, including a Newbery Honor in 1988, recognizing its contribution to children's literature.
- Gary Paulsen wrote Hatchet over the course of just a few months, driven by his passion for storytelling and adventure fiction.

**Brian Robeson**  
Brian is a 13-year-old boy dealing with his parents' recent divorce and the secret of his mother’s affair. He is left to survive alone in the wilderness after the plane crashes.

**Brian’s Mother**  
Brian’s mother, a constant presence in his thoughts, is involved in an affair that affects their relationship. She gives Brian a hatchet, which becomes essential for his survival.

**Brian’s Father**  
Brian's father appears in his dreams and offers guidance. Brian admires his father and keeps the secret of his mother’s affair from him.

**The Pilot**  
The pilot initially flies Brian but dies suddenly. Before his death, he encourages Brian to try flying the plane, imparting wisdom that aids in Brian's survival.

Gary Paulsen

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Hatchet Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-3

Hatchet Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-6

Hatchet Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 7-9

Hatchet Chapters 7-9 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 10-12

Hatchet Chapters 10-12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-15

Hatchet Chapters 13-15 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 16-Epilogue

Hatchet Chapter 16-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Hatchet Character Analysis

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Themes

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Hatchet Important Quotes

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Hatchet

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