Gary Paulsen

Gary Paulsen was an American writer of young adult books. He was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1939. He is best known for the survival novel Hatchet. His books are inspired by his own outdoor adventures and love of nature.

Early Life

Paulsen had a difficult childhood and moved around a lot. He found comfort in the library, where a librarian gave him his first library card. He worked many different jobs, including as a truck driver, sailor, and trapper. These experiences inspired his adventure stories.

Writing Career

Hatchet, published in 1987, tells the story of a boy who must survive alone in the wilderness. It won a Newbery Honor and became one of the most popular books for young readers. Paulsen wrote over 200 books during his career. He also ran the Iditarod, the famous dog sled race in Alaska, twice.

Fun Facts

• Gary Paulsen ran the Iditarod dog sled race in Alaska twice.
• He wrote over 200 books during his career.
• Many of the survival skills in Hatchet come from his own experiences in the wilderness.

Did You Know?

Gary Paulsen once said that a librarian saved his life. She gave him a library card when he was a lonely teenager, and reading gave him hope and a way to escape his troubles.