Paulsen, Gary. Brian's Winter. Laurel Leaf (1998 Reprint). ISBN-10: 0440227194

Plot Summary

Brian Robeson, the main character in Hatchet, is rescued at the end of the nearly two-month life-altering experience in the wilderness wherein the pilot of the plane he is on suffers a heart attack. In Brian’s Winter, the story continues as if Brian had never been rescued. He is forced to brave the winter elements and struggle once again to survive. Although he seemingly does a good job with this, like in Hatchet, he eventually learns that he has to create tools, shelter, and clothing that will help him adapt to his environment in a new way – a Canadian winter!

Critical Evaluation

Many of my students actually enjoy this book most of all the books in the Brian Saga. Students love the idea of Brian having to brave his way through the tumultuous winter season, and the students consider this to be the biggest challenge of all! The idea of an alternative ending to a previously written story is absolute genious!

Reader's Annotation

Brian’s Winter is a brilliant “what if” sequel to Hatchet. Paulsen takes an alternative perspective and changes the ending! Will Brian Robeson make it through the winter season? Or, will the elements prevail?

About the Author

Gary Paulsen has written well over 200 books, articles, and plays during his lifetime. As a child, Paulsen grew up with alcoholic parents, few friends, and a less than perfect educational experience. He finally, discovered the joy of reading when he was 14 years old. Attempting to escape the Minnesota cold, he walked into the local library, and the librarian asked him if he wanted a library card. This very moment changed his life forever. His life experiences as a military officer, a trapper, an editor, a ranch hand, and Iditarod racer resonate throughout his writing. Over the years, his works have earned many awards, including the Newbery Honor Award for Hatchet, Dogsong, and Winter Room.

Genre

Realistic Fiction: Action & Adventure

Curriculum Ties

Language Arts, Science, Social Studies

Booktalking Ideas

Have you read Hatchet? If so, then you know that Brian Robeson, the thirteen-year-old boy in the story, is finally rescued after being stranded in the Canadian wilderness for almost two months. But, what if he had never been rescued? Could Brian continue to survive in the wild?

Brian’s Winter is a continuation of Brian Robeson’s struggle to survive. Now, he must learn to live in temperatures below zero! Travel with Brian as he fights to stay warm during a harsh winter. Watch as Brian learns from his mistakes and wrestles with what he must do for food. By page 22, you’ll definitely be hooked!

Reading Level/Interest Age

Young Adult & Children, grades 4-6

Reason for Book Selection

I am a huge fan of Paulsen. I think he is truly a gifted writer, and the themes within his many stories are realistic and appealing to children and young adults of all ages.