This was my first read of Hatchet, and I can definitely see why it remains a classic. It is a short, action packed story with lots of literary merit, perfect for class readings. It is still surprisingly popular in my middle school library. I honestly wish we had more books like this being published today, brief, plot heavy, and allowing middle school aged students to independently confront the realities of life head on. I can see why it’s so compelling and cathartic at that age.