7,111 words (30–40 minutes)
Genre(s): Literary Fiction, Survival Fiction / Naturalism
First Published: The Century Magazine, August 1908

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A man ventures alone into the heart of the Yukon during an unimaginably cold winter day, ignoring warnings and dismissing the harsh realities of nature. Accompanied only by his dog, he is confident in his own abilities—until the frozen wilderness begins to assert its indifference. To Build a Fire is a masterclass in naturalistic storytelling, exploring hubris, instinct, and the unforgiving power of the natural world. Jack London’s stark and haunting narrative lingers long after the last ember fades.