50 pages • 1 hour read
Jason's Gold
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Book Brief
240
Novel • Fiction
Klondike, Alaska • 1890s
1999
YA
10-14 years
860L
Super Short Summary
Jason's Gold by Will Hobbs follows 15-year-old Jason Hawthorn as he travels to the Klondike goldfields in 1897, seeking wealth and adventure. Jason faces numerous challenges, including treacherous terrain, unreliable companions, and personal hardships, all while meeting various allies and foes. Ultimately, Jason discovers that human connections and personal growth are more valuable than riches. This novel includes depictions of death by suicide, animal abuse and death, murder, and offensive language about mental health and Indigenous people.
Adventurous
Inspirational
Exciting
Mysterious
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Reviews for Will Hobbs' Jason's Gold reveal a generally positive response. Readers praise its adventurous plot, strong historical detail, and engaging protagonist. However, some critique arises regarding predictable story elements and a slow start. Overall, fans recommend it for young adults interested in historical adventures, despite a few pacing issues.
Who Should Read Jason's Gold?
Readers with a thirst for adventure and historical fiction, particularly those between ages 10-14, will be captivated by Will Hobbs' Jason's Gold. Fans of Gary Paulsen's Hatchet and Jack London's The Call of the Wild will find a similar spirit of survival, exploration, and youthful determination in this thrilling Klondike Gold Rush tale.
Frank “Kid” Barker
Frank “Kid” Barker
Kid Barker, perceived by Jason to be around 17, is a con artist working under "Captain" William Randolph Smith, and his unethical actions serve as a stark contrast to Jason's moral values.
Jack London
Jack London
Jack is a red-headed, friendly young man who meets Jason in Juneau and embodies an adventurous spirit, providing Jason with companionship and supplies during their journey.
Jamie Dunavant
Jamie Dunavant
Jamie, at 14, is a confident and spirited Canadian girl who helps Jason after an illness and later performs poetry in Dawson, embodying the determination and strength of female explorers during the gold rush.
Charlie Maguire
Charlie Maguire
Charlie is a young boy who must quickly mature due to the harsh northern conditions, showing resilience and humor as he supports Jason through their challenging winter.
240
Novel • Fiction
Klondike, Alaska • 1890s
1999
YA
10-14 years
860L
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