The novel Winterdance , written by Gary Paulsen, is an autobiographical story of author’s own experience both training for and running the Iditarod dog sled race in Alaska. The harsh, vicious conditions of Iditarod effects Paulsen both mentally and physically. Paulsen describes the important setting of the Iditarod race to help the readers understand his personality.
The physical environment of the race setting helped me understand Paulsen is a determined man because of his love towards his dogs. The author illustrates his frightening moment of Happy canyon during the race. Since Paulsen wasn’t told anything specific information about Happy canyon, he was very unprepared for the vertical drop down the cliff. This dangerous terrain challenges Paulsen physically but he undergoes risks and manages to successfully pass the Happy canyon. After he experiences this brutal ride in sudden, he begins to consider about the race in more depth. In page 179, “ But I had other thoughts - mostly of apprehension. While very little had been said about Happy canyon - which had nearly finished me.” This quote is showing his personal feelings after his first major physical challenge but until this point, he still enjoys the Iditarod and is very determined for it. Also we learn how Paulsen is a risk taking, active person who risks his own life by using his body as a ‘living sled drag’. Another physical challenge that showed his determination and change was in the burn. By going through many…show more content… He was very determined in harsh, risky Iditarod and I believe that his determination reflects his love, connection with his dogs. Even he couldn’t continue his journey with his dogs due to health issue, he have gained a big, important thoughts through his
