Gone to the Woods

Have you ever felt like you didn't belong? Discover how a young boy, abandoned by his family, found his own path to survival and self-reliance in the wild. This is the true story of how Gary Paulsen became the man who would write Hatchet. You'll learn the raw lessons of the woods that shaped him. From escaping abusive parents to learning to hunt, fish, and read by the light of a fire, this journey reveals how hardship can forge incredible strength, creativity, and a deep connection to the natural world.

A master storyteller and three-time Newbery Honor recipient, Gary Paulsen is celebrated as one of the most important writers of young adult literature. His profound connection to nature was forged during a difficult childhood, where he often escaped to the woods for solace and survival. These formative experiences provided the raw, authentic material for his many beloved books, including this deeply personal look into his own life, Gone to the Woods, which reveals the origins of his resilience and enduring spirit.