Learn About The Program

Read the details of the programs offered for grades K-12 and youth groups, including Girl Scouts
Click Here

See the Testimonials

Read testimonials from people who have seen the program or watch video interviews with participants
Click Here

Sign Up for the Newsletter

Sign up for the newsletter (on real paper) that goes out every two months of the school year
Click Here

Brian Robeson

The Mundane World

Bryan Robeson is the hero of the book, Hatchet by Gary Paulsen. His mundane world is a town in New York where he lives with his mother. His parents have recently divorced and he begins the story on a flight to visit his father in northern Canada.

The Call To Adventure

During the flight to Canada, the pilot of Brian's small plane has a heart attack. Brian is forced to crash land the plane into a lake after it runs out of fuel. His adventure begins as he hauls himself out of the plane and reaches the edge of the lake.

Crossing The Threshold

Brian's threshold is crossed when he realizes that he may not be rescued for a long time. At this point he decides to take action to help himself. He remembers a teacher telling him to be positive and that his most valuable asset is himself. Brian finds a place to build a shelter and his journey begins.

The Path of Trials

Brian has many trials in his months in the wilderness, his primary trial being the search for food. There are a number of encounters to survive, including a porcupine, skunk, moose, bears, wolves, and a tornado. He manages to create a fire and copes with the solitude and occasional bouts of depression.

Master of Two Worlds

When Brian is rescued he has transformed. His physical appearance has changed radically and his perception of the world around him is affected by his journey. Brian comes back to his mundane world more appreciative of what he has and more observant of the world around him.

Submitted by: Shelby from Indian Woods Elementary