Hatchet Chapter 1 Quiz

Describe the setting at the beginning of the story.

How old is Brian Robeson?

Why is Brian unable to carry on a conversation with the pilot?

With what single word did his thinking always begin?

What was 'The Secret'?

Why is the pilot rubbing his shoulder?

What has Brian's father designed or invented?

Where is his father presently working?

What would have happened if Brian had gone through regular airport security in today's world?

Explain how chapter one ends.

How did Brian initially react to the situation?

What motivated Brian to finally attempt to fly the plane?

Explain how Brian called for help and describe what happened.

What would eventually happen to the plane?

Why did Brian think that the best place to set down the plane was the edge of the lake?

Describe what happened immediately after the plane's engine coughed and died.

Setting and Characters

The story begins on a Cessna 406 aircraft, en route to the Hampton.
Brian Robeson, a 13-year-old boy, is the main character grappling with personal issues.

Brian's Personal Struggles

Brian's thoughts are dominated by feelings of divorce, triggering a recurring inner conflict.
"The Secret," which pertains to the reasons behind his parents' divorce, weighs heavily on his mind.

Pilot's Situation

The pilot struggles with communication due to the loud engine noise.
He is revealed to be suffering a heart attack, adding urgency to Brian's predicament.

Brian's Father's Background

Brian's father has engineered a revolutionary self-cleaning and self-sharpening oil drill.
He is currently working on oil drilling projects in Canada.

Consequences of the Crash

If Brian had gone through modern airport security, the presence of a hatchet would have barred him from the flight.
Chapter one concludes dramatically with the pilot's heart attack, leaving Brian in a life-threatening situation.

Brian’s Reaction and Actions

Initially, Brian is paralyzed by fear and stands motionless in response to the crisis.
The urgent need to save himself spurs Brian into action as the plane loses altitude and faces imminent crash.

Emergency Communication

Brian attempts to call for help using the radio, but the connection fails abruptly.

Outcome of the Flight

The plane is destined to run out of fuel and crash, creating a critical situation for Brian.
He determines that landing at the edge of a lake is the safest option, as it offers a flat surface, unlike the dense trees which could be fatal.

Immediate Aftermath

Following the critical moment when the plane's engine fails, Brian experiences a severe emotional reaction and vomits, highlighting his fear and stress.

Test your knowledge on the first chapter of 'Hatchet' by Gary Paulsen. This quiz covers the setting, main character Brian's personal struggles, and significant plot points such as the pilot's situation and the eventual crash. Dive deeper into the themes and events that shape Brian's journey.