Books like Hatchet

Escape into 18th century England with "The Unexpected Life of Oliver Cromwell Pitts." Follow Oliver on his perilous journey to find his missing father and troubled sister, surviving through encounters with cruel orphan masters, corrupt magistrates, conniving thieves, and treacherous adventures. Avi weaves a vivid historical setting with a cast of colorful characters in this high adventure tale that will keep you turning the pages. A Kirkus Reviews Best Book of 2017.

Venture into the wild with Sam Gribley as he leaves his city life behind and sets up home in the Catskill Mountains. With a falcon and a weasel for company and only his wits to survive, Sam learns to live off the land in this spellbinding, funny, and touching account. Along the way, he battles blizzards, hunters, loneliness, and fear, all while discovering his desire for freedom, independence, and adventure. Jean Craighead George's My Side of the Mountain is a Newbery Honor Book that has inspired generations of young readers to explore the great outdoors.

Survival in the Alaskan wilderness becomes a true test of friendship for two young boys after their sailboat sinks. Without food, supplies, or immediate hope of rescue, they must scavenge and forage to stay alive. They also struggle to overcome their differences and animosity towards each other - an improbable bond may be their only ticket to survival. An award-winning author presents a modern-day adventure classic that fans of The Call of the Wild, Hatchet, and The Cay will love.

Discover a Newbery Medal classic about courage and overcoming fear. In this tale, a Polynesian boy named Mafatu fears the sea after it took his mother. Though he comes from a culture that values bravery, Mafatu is labeled a coward until he sets out to face his fear alone. Stranded on a desert island, he taps into his strength and resourcefulness, growing in courage with each obstacle he overcomes. This legendary story has been passed down for generations, and is sure to inspire readers today.

An Alaskan dogsled racer gets lost in the wilderness with her dogs and encounters a mysterious boy. With her survival and the dogs' in jeopardy, it's up to her to lead them through tricky obstacles. Written by a real-life musher, this thrilling adventure puts readers in the driver's seat alongside Victoria and her dogs.

"Fort" is a thrilling summer adventure that explores the themes of friendship, revenge, and standing up for yourself. When two older boys mess with their beloved fort and another kid who's unable to defend himself, Wyatt and Augie launch Operation Doom. This novel features two hilarious and relatable young heroes who learn unexpected lessons along the way.

A powerful novel addressing the Syrian refugee crisis and themes of integration, terrorism, and Islamophobia. Follow fourteen-year-old Ahmed, a Syrian refugee struggling to survive in a city that wants nothing to do with him. When he meets Max, a young American boy, their unlikely friendship defies the odds and teaches them both the importance of bravery and hope. Award-winning author Katherine Marsh delivers a heartwarming story of everyday heroes that will leave readers inspired.

A boy befriends a polar bear being transported from Norway to London in this "breathtaking adventure." Tasked with caring for the bear on the ship, the boy must keep her safe from dangers, including pirates. Based on a true story, this timeless tale explores the themes of freedom, captivity, and the bond between a boy and his unlikely friend.

Follow the adventures of high-spirited Jane, who joins Mr. Mercer's expedition to bring Civil War widows and orphans out west to Washington Territory. Jane is determined to make a new life for herself and her baby brother, but Seattle isn't the haven she thought it would be. Experience the trials and triumphs of life in a rough-and-tumble frontier town with Jane as she uses her broad mind, sturdy constitution, sense of humor, and stubbornness to overcome whatever comes her way.