Sure is. 'The River' is a work of fiction by Gary Paulsen that takes readers on a fictional adventure. It might draw inspiration from real-life situations but is crafted as a made-up narrative.
I'm not sure. It depends on the specific details and background of the story. Maybe some parts are based on real events, while others could be fictional.
Well, it's kind of ambiguous. Some claim it's real, while others think it's just made up. It depends on who you ask and what information you consider reliable.
It depends on the specific fanfiction. It could be Ash, who might be Gary's friend and try to avenge his death. Or it could be Gary's Pokemon partners, like his Eevee or Blastoise, which would be affected by his death.