38 pages • 1 hour read
Gary PaulsenBrian's Return
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1999A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In Brian's Return by Gary Paulsen, sixteen-year-old Brian Robeson struggles to adjust to life back in civilization after surviving alone in the Canadian wilderness. Unable to relate to his high school peers, Brian's survival instincts resurface after a violent encounter. With guidance from psychologist Caleb Lancaster, Brian decides to return to the wilderness. Facing new challenges and rediscovering his connection to nature, Brian ultimately chooses to continue his journey deeper into the wild to fully embrace his desire to understand and live in harmony with the forest. The book contains scenes involving bullying and physical violence.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Brian's Return by Gary Paulsen is generally praised for its vivid descriptions of nature and the introspective journey of its protagonist, Brian. Reviewers appreciate Paulsen's ability to captivate young readers with survival themes and a strong, relatable character. However, some critique the pacing as slow and feel that familiarity with previous books is necessary for full enjoyment.
Who Should Read Brian's Return?
Fans of wilderness survival and coming-of-age stories, particularly those who enjoyed Gary Paulsen's Hatchet series, will find Brian's Return captivating. This narrative appeals to readers who love adventure, self-discovery, and nature, much like in My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George.
RecommendedReading Age
10-14yearsLexile Level
1030LBook Details
Realistic Fiction
Coming of Age / Bildungsroman
Action / Adventure
Science / Nature
Natural World: Environment
Natural World: Animals
Emotions/Behavior: Determination / Perseverance