Hatchet

Written by Gary Paulsen

Book #1 in the Brian's Saga series

A boy survives a plane crash and must endure the wilderness with only a hatchet.

5.0/7 Bookroo experts·3.8/5 Goodreads · 464,236 ratings

186 pages· 42,458 words· Est. 4 hour read· 1020L

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Bookroo's summary

Thirteen-year-old Brian faces the ultimate test of survival after a plane crash leaves him stranded in the Canadian wilderness. With only a hatchet and his wits, he must learn to fend for himself. As he battles nature's challenges, Brian discovers resilience and courage he never knew he had. Can he overcome the wild and his inner turmoil to find a way back to civilization? This gripping tale of endurance and self-discovery will keep you on the edge of your seat.

From the publisher

Headed for Canada to visit his father for the first time since his parents’ divorce, thirteen-year-old Brian is the sole survivor of a plane crash, with only the clothes he has on and a hatchet to help him live in the wilderness. A Newbery Honor Book. Reprint.

Awards

Newbery Honor (1988)

At a glance

Format
Pages: 186
Words: 42,458
Reading age: 11–15
Audience: Young Adult
Lexile: 1020L

Themes & topics

Books about coping with failure Books about rural living Books about survival stories Books about airplanes Books about nature

What readers & critics say

Reviews

5.0

out of 7

4.5

“I'll be honest: I don't camp, because not sleeping outside is one of my very favorite things about not being homeless. Still, it was really interesting for me to read this book, and it made an impression on me when I was young. Ideal for middle schoolers, it goes beyond just talking about survival skills and really touches on bigger issues of problem solving, perseverance in the face of failure, and emotional and physical resilience.”

Lauren Hancock

Trusted reviewer

The author