Themes: Determination in Survival

One of the primary themes of Gary Paulsen’s Hatchet is survival. Brian Robeson must survive in the Canadian wilderness with only the clothing on his back and his hatchet. He has to learn to do everything from scratch, including making a fire, finding food, defending himself, and building a shelter. There is no one to help him, so Brian must rely on reason and creativity to accomplish what he needs to do.

Somehow, against all odds, Brian does...

Themes: Personal Growth

To survive, Brian must grow: he must learn to think in new ways and to see the world differently. At first, this growth involves a great deal of pain. Brian cries himself dry more than once as his circumstances threaten to overwhelm him. Yet he remembers an English teacher’s advice to “stay positive and stay on top of things” and to “get motivated,” and this gives Brian what he needs to continue his journey.

When the rescue plane misses...

Themes: The Realities of Nature

Brian has had little experience with the natural world when he is suddenly thrust into the middle of it. He has learned some things in science classes, on television, and in books, and he uses that knowledge to help him start a fire and catch a fish. But the realities of nature are much harsher than Brian ever expected.

Brian quickly learns that one of those harsh realities is the struggle for food. If he is to survive, he must eat, and he must...

Themes: Goodness out of Tragedy

Brian ending up alone in the wilderness after surviving a plane crash is a situation that could quickly end in tragedy. He could die with no food or shelter or help. But he does not: instead, he learns how to survive. He grows strong and resourceful and determined.

Goodness thus comes out of tragedy. Brian changes and becomes more determined and perceptive because of what he experiences. As difficult as his situation is, Brian’s determination to...