39 pages • 1 hour read
Woodsong
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Book Brief
144
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Alaskan Wilderness • 1980s
1990
Middle grade
10-14 years
1030L
Super Short Summary
Published in 1991, the adventure biography Woodsong recounts novelist Gary Paulsen’s experiences as a dogsled driver, including his participation in the Iditarod race across Alaska. He describes the hard-won lessons he learns, the strange and wondrous things he witnesses, and the love and admiration he feels for the dogs he trains with. Certain episodes in the story contain extreme violence involving wild animals.
Adventurous
Inspirational
Contemplative
Challenging
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
4,652 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Reviews of Gary Paulsen's Woodsong highlight its engaging storytelling and vivid portrayal of sled dog racing. Readers appreciate Paulsen's firsthand insights and descriptive narrative. However, some find the pacing inconsistent and a few anecdotal sections less compelling. Overall, it's praised for its authenticity and adventure, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.
Who Should Read Woodsong?
Readers who relish survival stories, deep connections with nature, and character-driven narratives will enjoy Woodsong by Gary Paulsen. Fans of Hatchet and Brian's Winter will appreciate its vivid storytelling and introspective journey through the Alaskan wilderness, making it ideal for middle-grade to young adult audiences seeking adventure and self-discovery.
4,652 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
144
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Alaskan Wilderness • 1980s
1990
Middle grade
10-14 years
1030L
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