Gary Paulsen is a popular author of kids books such as the Brian's Saga (Hatchet) and Newbery Honor books Dog Song and The Winter Room. Many of his books take place in the wilderness.
Where did Gary grow up?
Gary was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota on May 17, 1939. Gary had an interesting childhood running away from home to join the circus at the age of fourteen. Seriously! He then worked a number of jobs including construction worker, engineer, sailor, and truck driver.
How did Gary become an Author
Gary had always loved to read. It was his passion as a kid. One day he was doing his job as an engineer and he decided he wanted to write. He got a job as a proofreader and worked on his own writing every night. He finally ended up moving to a cabin where he finished his first novel.
Gary loves to write, he likes to encourage kids, and he enjoys the wilderness where he lives. All of these passions combine in Gary's books for kids.
Fun Facts about Gary Paulsen
Gary has ran the Alaskan dog race, the Iditarod, twice. He hopes to complete it again someday. Woodsong and Winterdance are books about the Iditarod.
He often writes for up to 20 hours in a day. I guess that's how he's written so many books.
Gary owns a large ranch in Alaska where he raises and trains sled dogs.
Gary has a list of top 10 survival tips. Number 1 is: Stop. Don't panic. Breathe deeply and make yourself think slowly.
Gary's wife Ruth is an artist who has illustrated many of his books.
List of Gary Paulsen books
On Gary's website he said if he had to recommend only a few of his books to read he would recommend Soldier's Heart, Harris and Me, Dogsong, and Nightjohn.
Gary has written over 200 books! We'll list some of his most recent and popular Kids Books here: The Tucket Adventures
