Hatchet Chapter One Questions

Questions and Answers

How old is Brian Robeson?

13 years old

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

The roar of the engine is too loud and the pilot has on a headset

With what single word did his thinking always begin?

divorce

What was 'The Secret'?

'The Secret' was something he knew about his mother that caused his parents' divorce. Signup and view all the answers

Why is the pilot rubbing his shoulder?

The pilot was rubbing his shoulder because it was hurting and he was having a heart attack. Signup and view all the answers

What has Brian's father designed or invented?

Brian's father had designed a new oil drilling bit that was self-cleaning and self-sharpening. Signup and view all the answers

Where is his father presently working?

His father was working in the oil fields of Canada. Signup and view all the answers

What does Brian's mother give him on their trip to take him to the plane?

His mother gives him a hatchet. Signup and view all the answers

What crisis does Brian face at the very end of the chapter?

At the end of chapter 1 the pilot has had a heart attack and is probably dead. Signup and view all the answers

Give an example of personification at the beginning of chapter 1.

...the plane clawed for altitude... Signup and view all the answers

Give an example of foreshadowing from page 5.

The pilot rubbed his left shoulder and said, 'Aches and pains---must be getting old.' Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Brian Robeson

Brian Robeson is 13 years old, navigating life changes as he grapples with his parents' divorce.

Communication Challenges

Brian struggles to converse with the pilot due to the loud roar of the airplane engine and the pilot's headset.

Impact of Divorce

The trigger for Brian's troubled thoughts is the word "divorce," central to his emotional landscape.

"The Secret"

"The Secret" refers to a private matter about Brian's mother that he believes is responsible for his parents' breakup.

Pilot's Health Crisis

The pilot experiences pain in his shoulder, indicating he is likely suffering a heart attack, a pivotal moment in the story.

Father's Achievement

Brian's father is credited with inventing a self-cleaning and self-sharpening oil drilling bit, showcasing his innovative work in the oil industry.

Father's Work Location

His father is currently employed in the Canadian oil fields, which symbolizes the physical and emotional distance in the family.

Gift from Mother

Before Brian departs, his mother gives him a hatchet, an important tool that will play a critical role in his survival.

Chapter Climax

The chapter concludes with a crisis as the pilot's potential death leaves Brian alone and in immediate danger.

Literary Devices

Personification is evident when describing the plane: it is likened to an entity that "clawed for altitude."

Foreshadowing Elements

Early hints of trouble are present when the pilot comments on his shoulder pain, hinting at impending chaos.

Description

Test your knowledge on Chapter One of 'Hatchet' by Gary Paulsen. This quiz focuses on key details about Brian Robeson and his experiences, including his age and thoughts. Perfect for revising the chapter and understanding the main themes.