Books like Hatchet: Great survival stories for young readers

Hatchet, written by Gary Paulsen, is a beloved classic that has captured the imagination of young readers for decades. The story is about Brian Robeson, then 13 years old, surviving alone in the wilderness after a plane crash. The book's engaging blend of survival, adventure, and personal growth makes it a favorite among young readers. If you're a Hatchet fan and are looking for books like Hatchet , this WiPDF article has compiled some fascinating books with unforgettable adventures. 

1. The Unexpected Life of Oliver Cromwell Pitts 

by Avi 

Fans of Hatchet will find The Unexpected Life of Oliver Cromwell Pitts to be a captivating adventure full of peril and survival. The story is set in England in 1724 and follows young Oliver Cromwell Pitts, who wakes up one morning to find his house flooded, his father missing, and himself without money or food. Desperate and alone, Oliver makes the dangerous decision to steal money from a shipwreck—a crime punishable by death. As he flees his seaside town and heads to London in search of his father, Oliver faces treacherous encounters with criminals, corrupt officials, and the unforgiving environment of 18th-century England. Like Hatchet, this book centers around a young boy’s struggle to survive against impossible odds, making it a top recommendation for readers searching for books like Hatchet. 

2. Call It Courage 

by Armstrong Sperry 

For readers who enjoyed Brian’s journey in Hatchet, Call It Courage is an excellent follow-up. This classic survival story tells the tale of Maftu, a young Polynesian boy who is haunted by his fear of the sea. Despite being the son of a revered chief, Maftu has been mocked and ridiculed for years due to his fear, which stems from a childhood tragedy. Determined to prove his bravery, Maftu sets off alone in a canoe, along with his dog and a pet albatross, to confront the sea that terrifies him. What follows is a harrowing adventure as Maftu battles storms, survives on a deserted island, and confronts his deepest fears. Like Brian in Hatchet, Maftu’s journey is not just one of physical survival but of personal growth and courage, making it a compelling pick for those seeking books like Hatchet. 

3. The Skeleton Tree 

by Iain Lawrence 

The Skeleton Tree is a modern survival story that shares many similarities with Hatchet. In this novel, two boys, Chris and Frank, are the sole survivors of a boating accident off the Alaskan coast. With no food, no equipment, and a vast wilderness around them, they must rely on their wits and each other to survive. However, their relationship is fraught with tension—Frank, the older of the two, has a strong dislike for Chris. Despite their differences, the boys must learn to cooperate if they are to withstand the harsh Alaskan winter and the many dangers it holds. Like Hatchet, The Skeleton Tree is a gripping story of survival, where the natural world is both a beautiful and deadly force. Fans of books like Hatchet will appreciate the high stakes, emotional depth, and breathtaking setting of this novel. 

4. The Cay 

by Theodore Taylor 

If you're searching for books like Hatchet with a unique twist, The Cay by Theodore Taylor is a must-read. Set during World War II, the story follows Phillip Enright, an 11-year-old boy who is shipwrecked after his vessel is torpedoed by German submarines. Phillip, now blind from an injury sustained during the attack, finds himself stranded on a deserted island with Timothy, an elderly black man, and a cat. Phillip, who was raised with racial prejudice, initially struggles to trust Timothy, but over time, the two form a deep bond as they work together to survive. The Cay is not only a gripping survival story but also a tale of friendship, trust, and overcoming prejudice. Its themes of cooperation and personal growth resonate strongly with those found in Hatchet, making it a perfect addition to any list of books like Hatchet. 

5. Ice Dogs 

by Terry Lynn Johnson 

For readers drawn to stories set in extreme environments, Ice Dogs is an excellent pick. Terry Lynn Johnson, an experienced musher, brings authenticity to this gripping tale of survival in the Alaskan wilderness. The story centers on 14-year-old Victoria Secord, a dog-sled racer who has been struggling with the loss of her father. One day, while out with her sled dogs, Victoria stumbles upon an injured city boy and helps him. However, a blizzard strikes and the two become lost in the wilderness. Victoria must use everything her father taught her about survival to protect herself and the boy. As with Hatchet, the survival skills and emotional depth of the protagonist make Ice Dogs a thrilling and touching story. It’s a great recommendation for those who love books like Hatchet that combine action with heartfelt character development. 

6. My Side of the Mountain 

by Jean Craighead George 

A classic in its own right, My Side of the Mountain is often compared to Hatchet for its similar themes of self-reliance and wilderness survival. The story follows Sam Gribley, a 14-year-old boy who decides to leave his crowded city life behind and live alone in the Catskill Mountains. Armed with survival knowledge from books he read at the public library, Sam is determined to thrive in the wilderness, even though his father believes he will return home soon. Like Brian in Hatchet, Sam learns to live off the land, finding food, shelter, and companionship in nature. My Side of the Mountain is an inspiring and beautifully written story that showcases the power of independence, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking for books like Hatchet. 

Conclusion 

If you are captivated by the thrilling adventure and survival themes in Hatchet, these six books like Hatchet will provide more exciting and unforgettable journeys. Each story centers on young characters facing overwhelming challenges in the wild, where they must rely on their wits, courage, and inner strength. Whether it’s braving the elements or forging new friendships, these books like Hatchet offer compelling narratives that will leave you hooked from start to finish. Visit WiPDF to explore these titles and download your next adventure today.