Hatchet by Gary Paulsen

Paulsen, G. (2007). Hatchet. New York: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers. ISBN: 9781416936473

Plot Summary: Hatchet is about a 13-year-old boy named Brian Robeson whose parents just went through a divorce. On his flight to go visit his father in Canada, the pilot gives him a quick lesson on how to fly a plane. The pilot then unexpectedly suffers from a heart attack leaving Brian the responsibility to fly. He then crash lands into a lake in the Canadian wilderness left with nothing but the hatchet his mother gave to him before he left. After several months, Brian learns to survive in the forest using the little resources he has.

Critical Evaluation: The author does an amazing job at keeping readers interested. Both guys and girls will enjoy the adventures that Brian faces. He experiences several rebirths throughout the story. Readers will be amazed with the amount of strength Brian has and with the decisions he makes. He teaches himself how to fish, choose berries, build a fire, and more. The author does a fabulous job at showing the character’s perseverance and strength. I would definitely be interested in reading the sequels to the book.

Information about the Author: Gary Paulsen was born in 1939 and is a very popular author for young readers. He lives in Minnesota and has incredible amounts of life experiences that is reflected in his writing.

Annotation: After his plane crashes in the middle of the Canadian forest, Brian Robeson finds himself struggling to survive using his hatchet and the resources around him.

Genre: Travel and survival

Curriculum Ties: Canada

Booktalking Ideas: Librarian will read a first person narrative of Brian’s experience in the middle of the forest.

Reading Level/Interest Age: 9th-12th grade

Challenge Issues: none

Reason for Inclusion: Hatchet has been awarded the Newbery Honor Book, ALA Notable Children’s Book ALA Best of the Best for Young Adults, “Booklist” editors’ Choice, and ALA Quick Pick.