Plot Summary

The Island

Gary Paulsen

The Island

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1988

Book Brief

Gary Paulsen

The Island

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1988
Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Wisconsin • 1980s

Publication Year

1988

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-16 years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

In The Island, an adolescent named Wil navigates self-discovery and growth after moving to rural Wisconsin. He finds solace and inspiration on a secluded island where he connects deeply with nature, explores personal identity, and confronts life's complexities through drawing and observation, fostering a journey of introspection and maturation.

Adventurous

Contemplative

Serene

Emotional

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

3.8

2,164 ratings

63%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

The Island by Gary Paulsen captivates with its vivid depiction of nature and a young boy's introspective journey. Readers praise its lyrical prose and emotional depth, ideal for young adult audiences. Critiques mention a slow-paced narrative that might not appeal to those seeking action. Overall, it's a thoughtful exploration of self-discovery.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Island?

A reader who enjoys The Island by Gary Paulsen is likely a young adult interested in adventure and self-discovery. Fans of introspective books like Hatchet by Paulsen or My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George would appreciate its themes of solitude, nature, and personal growth.

3.8

2,164 ratings

63%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Wisconsin • 1980s

Publication Year

1988

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-16 years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!