Hatchet
by Gary Paulsen
Simon and Schuster 1987
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- survival
- self-reliance
- resilience
- man vs. nature
- courage
- problem-solving
- coming of age
- isolation
About this book
When a small plane crashes in the Canadian wilderness, thirteen-year-old Brian Robeson finds himself alone with only a hatchet and his wits. Struggling with thoughts of his parents’ divorce, he must learn to find food, make shelter, and stay safe in the wild. The story blends edge-of-your-seat survival with thoughtful moments of self-discovery. It’s a favorite for middle graders who love outdoor adventure, real-world problem-solving, and fast-paced suspense.
Setting: remote Canadian wilderness, contemporary era
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hatchet right for my child?
Yes — Hatchet is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.7, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 9–14 (4th–8th grade). Themes include survival, self-reliance, resilience.
How long does it take to read Hatchet?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Hatchet takes around 4.5h to finish. The book has 44,806 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Hatchet have an AR quiz?
Yes — Hatchet has an AR quiz available, worth 7 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is Hatchet?
Hatchet has an AR reading level of 5.7, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.