Island of the Blue Dolphins

Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell Illustrated by Ted Lewin published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt; February 8, 2010; 177 pages; Age range 8-12 years.

Summary: Left alone on a beautiful but isolated island off the coast of California, a young Indian girl spends 18 years, not only merely surviving through her enormous courage and self-reliance, but also finding a measure of happiness in her solitary life.

Recently while looking through the stacks at the local library I found this title and remembered how much I enjoyed reading it as a child.  I just had to check it out to re-read and to share with my children. 

The book is based on a true story of an Indian girl of the Ghalas-at community on the island, San Nicolas, off the coast of California. Like Scott Odell I knew of Karana, the "Lost Woman of San Nicolas", who lived alone there from 1835 to 1853. During the evacuation of Ghalas-at, the 12-year-old-girl jumped ship to stay with her young brother, who had been left on the island.

Island of the Blue Dolphins is an unusual and compelling survival story, simply told and given immediacy by the first person voice.  It is a story of courage and endurance and is remarkable in sustaining pace and suspense, but it is far more than a Robinson Crusoe Adventure.  Karana is also a channel for the author's anger at greedy hunters who exterminate wildlife, and the book was the first of many, that express O'dell's concern for fair treatment of, and respect for, all people. Karana is angry and fearful at first, filled with bitterness. Adjusting to her isolation, learning to care for the wild creatures who are her only companions, the vengeful child becomes serene, compassionate, and forgiving adult.  She has learned the healing power of love.

In 1961, Island of the Blue Dolphins won the John Newbery Medal, an award conferred each year on the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children.  The book was later made into a successful motion picture starring Celia Kaye and directed by James B. Clark.

I give this book ★★★★☆