Scott O'Dell's Island of the Blue Dolphins receives widespread acclaim for its powerful, poignant storytelling and its strong, resilient protagonist. Critics praise the novel's vivid descriptive language and compelling depiction of solitude and survival. However, some point out a slow narrative pace and limited character depth as minor drawbacks. Overall, it's cherished for its emotional depth and engaging plot.

Readers who enjoy survival stories, historical fiction, and coming-of-age tales would appreciate Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell. Fans of Hatchet by Gary Paulsen or My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George will find similar themes of resilience and self-reliance.

Originally published in 1960, Scott O’Dell’s Island of the Blue Dolphins is a middle grade historical fiction/adventure novel. Twelve-year-old Karana is left alone on her island when her tribe leaves and must learn to survive while facing wild dogs, natural challenges, and years of isolation, ultimately finding companionship in animals and awaiting rescue. The book contains several deaths and descriptions of dead and injured animals.

Melancholic / Adventurous / Contemplative / Inspirational

- Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell won the Newbery Medal in 1961, a prestigious award given annually to the author of the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children.
- The novel is based on the true story of Juana Maria, a Nicoleño Native American left alone on San Nicolas Island off the California coast for 18 years during the 19th century.
- Scott O'Dell was inspired to write Island of the Blue Dolphins after reading about the archaeological findings on San Nicolas Island and hearing the real survival tale of the "Lone Woman of San Nicolas Island."

**Karana**  
The protagonist and narrator who embodies traits such as courage and resourcefulness, guiding the reader through her survival journey on the Island of the Blue Dolphins. Her actions and interactions with the natural world and other characters drive the story forward.

**Chief Chowig**  
The cautious and wise leader of the village of Ghalas-at and Karana’s father, whose decisions impact his people’s fate and Karana’s future. His role and beliefs influence Karana’s struggle with tradition and her path to self-determination.

**Ramo**  
Karana’s adventurous and excitable younger brother who ignites a series of crucial events on the island due to his spirited actions. His presence greatly affects Karana’s decisions and character development throughout the story.

**Rontu**  
A formerly wild and distrustful dog who becomes Karana’s loyal companion, playing an essential role in her survival and transformation. His journey from adversary to friend mirrors significant themes in the narrative.

**Tutok**  
An Aleut girl whose brief but impactful friendship with Karana fosters a sense of joy and trust in the protagonist. Her presence in the story challenges Karana’s preconceived notions and rekindles her desire for human connection.

Scott O'Dell

Middle grade

Novel

Island of the Blue Dolphins

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Teaching Guide

Before You Read

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Overview

O’Dell’s middle grade classic explores survival, nature, and friendship. Read an expert-written summary and analysis of Island of the Blue Dolphins.

Island of the Blue Dolphins Summary and Study Guide

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Island of the Blue Dolphins Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-7

Island of the Blue Dolphins Chapters 1-7 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 8-14

Island of the Blue Dolphins Chapters 8-14 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 15-20

Island of the Blue Dolphins Chapters 15-20 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 21-29

Island of the Blue Dolphins Chapters 21-29 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Island of the Blue Dolphins Character Analysis

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Themes

Island of the Blue Dolphins Themes

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Island of the Blue Dolphins Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

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Island of the Blue Dolphins Teaching Unit

Introduction

Island of the Blue Dolphins Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

Reading Context

Island of the Blue Dolphins Reading Context

During Reading

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Island of the Blue Dolphins Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Answer Key

Island of the Blue Dolphins Reading Questions Answer Key

After Reading

Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Island of the Blue Dolphins Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Activities

Island of the Blue Dolphins Activities

Essay Questions

Island of the Blue Dolphins Essay Questions

Exam Questions

Island of the Blue Dolphins Cumulative Exam Questions

Exam Answer Key

Island of the Blue Dolphins Exam Answer Key

Island of the Blue Dolphins

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