I had low expectations for this sequel to Hatchet. Hatchet was clearly meant to be a standalone book so I assumed, in an effort to turn the book into a sequel, the author would struggle with coming up with a plot that wasn't completely contrived. And...it is a little contrived. It starts with an unbelievable premise, the U.S. government seeking out a fifteen year old boy to teach survival skills.

A wacky premise can be forgiven when the plot is fun and adventurous, the message is clear, and the length is super short though. The audio book is only 2.5 hours and at 2x speed, it's basically like listening to the audio of a great episode of television. It's even shorter than Hatchet and the stakes are high. Similar to Hatchet, this felt like an allegory for life. While Hatchet focused a lot on thinking through problems, The River seemed to focus on the value of consistent work. If you work every day and try every day, luck will eventually find you. It also deals with the responsibility of caring for others. In a sense, Brian swaps roles with an adult and becomes a primary caregiver. Being a caregiver isn't fun, it can slow you down in the wild and in life, and it leads Brian to have some very dark thoughts that he must overcome.

Again, the message in this book is so good and wholesome for kids. And the adventure aspect of the story is entertaining for all ages. A highly recommend for all readers. ( )

An excellent sequel. The military wants his help to improve survival training. So Brian finds this outing easier until Derek Holtzer, a government psychologist is hurt and now Brian has to take care of another person. Quick listen ( )

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Not as good as Hatchet, but it's definitely Paulsen! ( )