Hatchet by Gary Paulsen - Summary Notes

Chapter 1

• Setting: Brian Robeson, a 13-year-old boy, is flying in a small Cessna 406 bush plane over northern wilderness.
• Character: Brian is troubled and introspective, reflecting on his parents' divorce.
• Divorce Theme: The word "divorce" is significant, symbolizing a tearing apart of his family and life.
• Pilot: The only other passenger is the pilot, who is mostly silent.

Chapter 2

• Pilot's Heart Attack: The pilot suffers a heart attack mid-flight, leaving Brian to take control of the airplane.
• Brian's Panic: Brian's fear and confusion escalate as he realizes he must fly the plane alone.
• Communication: Brian attempts to use the radio to call for help but struggles with anxiety and lack of knowledge about flying.

Chapter 3

• Crash: With the engine failing, Brian must make an emergency landing in a lake.
• Survival Instincts: He survives the crash but is disoriented and overwhelmed by the wilderness.
• Decision Making: Brian realizes he must adapt and use his instincts to survive.

Chapter 4

• Setting and Survival: Brian wakes up on the shore of the lake, reflecting on his new reality and his family.
• Resilience: He begins to accept his situation and recognizes the importance of survival skills.

Chapter 5

• Thirst and Food: Brian's need for water is intense; he discovers the lake is his source.
• Finding Resources: He learns to gather food, focusing on berries, while understanding the necessity of water for survival.

Chapter 6

• Shelter and Safety: Brian constructs a shelter to protect himself from the elements and animals.
• Resourcefulness: He learns to use what is available to him in the wilderness.

Chapter 7

• Bear Encounter: Brian faces new challenges and threats from wildlife, particularly bears.
• Fear and Adaptation: He learns to navigate and respect the wildlife around him.

Chapter 8

• Fire: Brian learns the importance of fire for warmth, cooking, and protection.
• Survival Skills: He begins to master more skills necessary for survival in the wilderness.

Chapter 9

• Hunting and Learning: Brian practices hunting techniques, becoming more adept at using the bow and arrow.
• Pursuit of Food: He continues to seek out food sources, focusing on fish and birds.

Chapter 10

• Resilience and Growth: Brian reflects on his growth and evolution since the crash, physically and mentally.
• Independence: He becomes more self-reliant and capable.

Chapter 11

• Riches of the Wilderness: Brian discovers the survival pack in the plane, containing tools and supplies that empower him.
• Self-Discovery: The pack offers him a new level of confidence and ability to survive.

Chapter 12

• Fishing Success: Brian successfully catches fish and learns to cook them over a fire, improving his diet and morale.
• Skill Development: He becomes skilled in crafting tools and hunting methods.

Chapter 13

• Coping with Isolation: Brian faces the emotional challenges of isolation but learns to appreciate the beauty of his surroundings.
• Survival Mindset: He develops a strong survival mindset, focusing on the skills necessary for living in the wild.

Chapter 14

• Crisis: Brian faces extreme challenges, including a tornado that destroys his camp and forces him to rebuild.
• Resilience: He learns to adapt and overcome new hardships.

Chapter 15

• Resourcefulness: Brian demonstrates ingenuity in finding new ways to catch food, including birds and rabbits.
• Nature of Survival: He understands the importance of constant adaptation and learning from mistakes.

Chapter 16

• Discovery and Growth: Brian reflects on his transformation and newfound skills in hunting and foraging.
• Emotional Strength: He feels a strong connection to nature and his own resilience.

Chapter 17

• Confronting Fears: Brian confronts his fears and past traumas, gaining strength from his experiences.
• Self-Reflection: He examines his journey and continues to grow emotionally.

Chapter 18

• New Challenges: Brian finds ways to make a raft to retrieve the survival pack from the plane.
• Determination: He approaches challenges with fresh determination and resourcefulness.

Chapter 19

• Final Triumph: Brian retrieves the survival pack and learns to make a fire, solidifying his survival skills.
• Hope and Future: He feels a renewed sense of hope and purpose as he continues to adapt and thrive in the wilderness.