Overview
Hatchet is an award-winning children’s novel written by Gary Paulson that’s been on student reading lists for years. It centers around a young boy, Brian Robeson, who survives a plane crash and ends up alone in the woods of Canada. He only has a hatchet and his survival instincts to keep himself alive. While this book has been enjoyed by tons of young readers, we gathered all the details you need to know to make sure it’s a fit for your child.
Harmful Content ❗️
Parents should know that this book was written for a younger audience. However, the themes of survival and coming close to death may be distressing for some readers. While scenes of Brian fighting for his life and enduring hardship are distressing, they’re never discussed in excessive or gory detail.
Language
There is no adult language or profanities.
Sex
There is no sexual content in this book. There is a minor subplot in which Brian hints at his mother’s “secret,” which is that she is having an affair.
Violence
Brian faces many moments of desperation and near-death, including attacks from wild animals and starvation. Again, these scenes are not described graphically, but are written in a way that the audience feels his struggle.
Positive Value 💫
Hatchet explores themes of perseverance through both internal and external struggles. While Brian conquers many obstacles in the wilderness, he also battles with his own mind, which proves to be as much of a feat as anything else he faces. The audience first meets Brian as a scared, uncertain boy, and follows him as he grows into a mature, self-sufficient young man.
So, should I let my kid read it?
We’d say this book is appropriate for kids around 11 and up. As long as you’re aware of some of the more intense parts and feel confident that your child can handle them, this book will be a great read for them.
