Island of the Blue Dolphins

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.”

• Based on a True Story: Experience the unforgettable tale of the Lone Woman of San Nicolas, an indigenous girl who lived alone on a remote island for eighteen years in the 1800s.
• A Powerful Coming of Age Story: Forced to survive against all odds, Karana must learn to make her own weapons—breaking her tribe’s laws—and discover an inner strength she never knew she possessed.
• Unforgettable Animal Friendships: After her brother is killed by wild dogs, Karana faces her enemies alone, eventually taming their fierce leader, Rontu, and forging an unlikely bond.
• Historical Fiction for Young Readers: Set on a remote California island in the early 1800s, this novel brings a unique piece of American history to life for middle grade readers.