Readers of "Hatchet," "The River", and "Brian's Winter" know Brian Robeson survived alone in the wilderness by finding solutions to extraordinary challenges. But now that's he's back in civilization, he can't find a way to make sense of high school life. He feels disconnected, more isolated in civilization than he did alone in the north woods. How can Brian discover his true path in life, and where he belongs? The answer is to return.

Paulsen skillfully explores the meaning of belonging and purpose, and reminds us of a crucial rule of the wilderness: expect the unexpected.