Paulsen, G. (1987). Hatchet. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster.

Stephanie Gotay

 

Fiction-Young Adult (12-18 years old)

 

Family dynamics

 

Hatchet is the adventurous survival tale of 13 year-old Brian who is struggling with anger and hatred in the aftermath of his parents’ recent divorce. An unfortunate twist of fate lands Brian in the wilderness with limited resources. In his struggle to survive alone, he must consider unfamiliar options and potential outcomes in order to find workable solutions. Through many challenging events, Brian discovers his own courage, strength, and determination which were previously unknown to him. This book is recommended for readers age 10 and up who enjoy the thrill of action tales. Although the character’s struggle is based on both personal survival and a family fractured by divorce, the story offers a metaphor for a variety of adolescent life struggles which require decision making, change, and personal empowerment to overcome difficult situations. The character’s struggles parallel those of adolescents attempting to reunify with families following separation and for youth attempting to alter patterns of maladaptive behavior such as gang affiliation, drug use, and aggression.

 

The book is best used as homework which can be processed during therapy sessions. Some printings of this book include a helpful reader’s guide which identifies key points for discussion. The story offers a thought provoking catalyst to utilize with clients when developing survival kits to face their own personal challenges. It should be noted, the book contains two moral dilemmas which may be difficult for some clients; one involves decisions regarding the use of a gun, and the other pertains to adultery.