Island of the Blue Dolphins - by Scott O'Dell (Hardcover)

About the Book

"A haunting and unusual story based on the fact that in the early 1800s an Indian girl spent 18 years alone on a rocky island far off the coast of California. . . . A quiet acceptance of fate characterizes her ordeal".--School Library Journal, starred review. William Allen White Award; ALA Notable Children's Book; Newbery Medal.

Book Synopsis

Scott O'Dell's Newbery Medal-winning classic is a gripping tale of survival, strength, and courage. Based on the true story of a Nicoleño Indian girl living alone on an island off the coast of California, Island of the Blue Dolphins has captivated readers for generations.

On San Nicolas Island, dolphins flash in the surrounding blue waters, sea otter play in the vast kelp beds, and sea elephants loll on the stony beaches. Here, in the early 1800s, a girl named Karana spent eighteen years alone.

Karana had to contend with the ferocious pack of wild dogs that killed her younger brother, constantly guard against Aleutian sea otter hunters, and maintain a precarious food supply. Her courage, self-reliance, and grit has inspired millions of readers in this breathtaking adventure.

As Smithsonian magazine put it: "For kids all over the country, reading the book in language arts classes, Karana is a powerful symbol of their growing independence. Through her, they can imagine themselves making their way in the world alone--and thriving."

Review Quotes

"Years of research must have gone into this book to turn historical fact into so moving and lasting an experience." -- The Horn Book

"A haunting and unusual story based on the fact that in the early 1800s an Indian girl spent eighteen years alone on a rocky island far off the coast of California. A quiet acceptance of fate characterizes her ordeal." -- School Library Journal (starred review)

"Island of the Blue Dolphins is a unique story about a young Nicoleno girl named Karana who learned how to survive on an island by herself. This book continues to be a source of empowerment and adventure to any reader who decides to follow Karana's story." -- The Guardian