Reviews for Will Hobbs' Jason's Gold reveal a generally positive response. Readers praise its adventurous plot, strong historical detail, and engaging protagonist. However, some critique arises regarding predictable story elements and a slow start. Overall, fans recommend it for young adults interested in historical adventures, despite a few pacing issues.

Readers with a thirst for adventure and historical fiction, particularly those between ages 10-14, will be captivated by Will Hobbs' Jason's Gold. Fans of Gary Paulsen's Hatchet and Jack London's The Call of the Wild will find a similar spirit of survival, exploration, and youthful determination in this thrilling Klondike Gold Rush tale.

Jason's Gold by Will Hobbs follows 15-year-old Jason Hawthorn as he travels to the Klondike goldfields in 1897, seeking wealth and adventure. Jason faces numerous challenges, including treacherous terrain, unreliable companions, and personal hardships, all while meeting various allies and foes. Ultimately, Jason discovers that human connections and personal growth are more valuable than riches. This novel includes depictions of death by suicide, animal abuse and death, murder, and offensive language about mental health and Indigenous people.

Adventurous / Inspirational / Exciting / Mysterious / Challenging

- In Jason's Gold, Will Hobbs uses real historical events like the Klondike Gold Rush of 1897-1899 as a backdrop to create an authentic adventure experience for readers.
- The novel's protagonist, Jason Hawthorn, is loosely inspired by the thousands of young men who were drawn by the allure of gold and took on the journey to Canada's Yukon Territory.
- Will Hobbs conducted extensive research, including visiting key locations in Alaska and the Yukon, to vividly capture the challenging terrain and experiences of the gold rush in his writing.

**Jason Hawthorn**  
Jason is a 15-year-old protagonist who embarks on a journey to the Klondike during the gold rush, displaying resourcefulness and ambition, shaped by his challenging past and desire for independence.

**Frank “Kid” Barker**  
Kid Barker, perceived by Jason to be around 17, is a con artist working under "Captain" William Randolph Smith, and his unethical actions serve as a stark contrast to Jason's moral values.

**Jack London**  
Jack is a red-headed, friendly young man who meets Jason in Juneau and embodies an adventurous spirit, providing Jason with companionship and supplies during their journey.

**Jamie Dunavant**  
Jamie, at 14, is a confident and spirited Canadian girl who helps Jason after an illness and later performs poetry in Dawson, embodying the determination and strength of female explorers during the gold rush.

**Charlie Maguire**  
Charlie is a young boy who must quickly mature due to the harsh northern conditions, showing resilience and humor as he supports Jason through their challenging winter.

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Part 1: “Klondike or Bust”

Part 1, Chapters 1-7

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Part 1, Chapters 8-13

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Part 2: “Down the Yukon”

Part 2, Chapters 14-18

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Part 2, Chapters 19-23

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Part 3: “The Golden City”

Part 3 Jason's Gold Part 3 Summary & Analysis

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