Hatchet

Paulsen, Gary. Hatchet. New York: Bradbury Press, 1987.

Plot: On the way to visit his father in the oil wells of Canada, Brian finds himself in the worst-case scenario. The pilot suffers a heart attack and dies. Brian manages to land the plane, but finds himself lost and alone in the Canadian wilderness. His only tools are his tattered, wet clothes and his small hatchet, bought by his mother. He survives by learning to hunt, fish, make shelter, and create fire with his meager provisions. Yet, even with his survival at risk, he cannot forget the Secret. The Secret caused him to visit his father. The Secret caused his parents to divorce and separate with a national border between them. Yet, the Secret cannot stop him from surviving.

Reading Level: 6-8 grade

Genre: Adventure, Survival

Similar Titles: Julie of the Wolves, Brian’s Return, Sign of the Beaver

Personal Thoughts: The book won a Newbery Honor Award. However, I did not care for it. While this novel covered physiological issues, such as secrets, parental relationships, and coming of age, much of the emotion seems tacked on, almost like the "drama" in a reality-television series. The fact that a boy finds himself in a struggle for survival makes enough conflict for a novel by itself. The family issues fail to add depth or genuine sympathy for the protagonist. Additionally, Brian seems artificially mature and aloof, particularly in comparison to CC from Chinese Cinderella and the Secret Dragon Society, Sam from My Side of the Mountain,  or Karana from Island of the Blue Dolphins. Unlike the other heroes, never really appears to be a child. Rather, he is an “adult in a kid’s body.” The other protagonists' changes were more gradual and believable. Even so, the novel does present the challenges of survival as challenges. Nothing comes automatically or easily, so that aspect of the story is realistic. Apparently, two sequels came as a result of Hatchet’s success. The novel also provided the basis for Cry in the Wild, a movie made in 1990.