Hatchet

Hatchet (Paulsen, Gary; 1988; Puffin Books; 195 p.; ISBN 9780140327243)

This is a classic tale of survival as protagonist Brian has to endure the aftermath of a plane crash that leaves him stranded in the middle of nowhere.  The hatchet helps Brian to forge an existence, and it is symbolic of the fracturing of his family following his parents’ divorce.  This book is the first of five in Brian’s Saga.