Date of Birth: May 17, 1939
Zodiac Sign: Taurus
Date of Death: October 13, 2021
Biography
Gary Paulsen was an American writer best known for his young adult literature, particularly the coming-of-age wilderness survival novel “Hatchet.” Born on May 17, 1939, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Paulsen had a tumultuous and adventurous life that greatly influenced his writing. He grew up with alcoholic parents and often found solace in reading and the outdoors. His experiences in the wilderness and various odd jobs, including as a truck driver, sailor, and ranch hand, provided rich material for his books. Paulsen ran away from home at the age of 14 and traveled with a carnival, marking the beginning of his lifelong love for adventure. He joined the Army in 1959 and served as an engineer. After his service, he worked on a missile installation in California before deciding to focus on writing. Paulsen’s career took off in the 1960s when he started writing for various magazines. His breakthrough came with “Hatchet” in 1987, which has since become a staple in school curricula across the United States. Throughout his career, Paulsen wrote more than 200 books and numerous short stories, articles, and plays. His works often explore themes of survival, nature, and self-discovery, drawing from his own life experiences. He received numerous awards, including the Newbery Honor and the Margaret A. Edwards Award for his significant contribution to young adult literature. Paulsen passed away on October 13, 2021, leaving behind a legacy of inspiring stories that continue to captivate readers of all ages.
5 Interesting Facts about Gary Paulsen
1. Gary Paulsen ran away from home at age 14 and joined a carnival.
2. He completed the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race twice.
3. Paulsen wrote more than 200 books throughout his career.
4. His novel “Hatchet” has sold over 2.5 million copies worldwide.
5. He served in the Army as an engineer before becoming a full-time writer.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Gary Paulsen
1. “I owe everything I am and everything I will ever be to books.”
2. “Reading didn’t come to me until I was about 12. It changed my life.”
3. “The woods were my Ritalin. Nature calmed me, focused me, and yet excited my senses.”
4. “One of the joys of writing is that you can make anything happen.”
5. “I write to discover what I think.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Gary Paulsen’s highest net worth achieved was estimated to be around $3 million.
Children
Gary Paulsen had three children: Lance, Lynn, and James Paulsen.
Relevant Links
1. [Wikipedia – Gary Paulsen](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gary_Paulsen
2. [Gary Paulsen’s Official Website](http://www.garypaulsen.com/
3. [Biography on Scholastic](https://www.scholastic.com/teachers/authors/gary-paulsen/
4. [Interview with Gary Paulsen](https://www.readingrockets.org/books/interviews/paulsen
5. [New York Times Obituary](https://www.nytimes.com/2021/10/14/books/gary-paulsen-dead.html