O'Dell, Scott. 1960. Island of the Blue Dolphins. Ill. by Ted Lewin. New York, NY: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN: 0-395-53680-4.
Karana is a character crafted from the history books - she was created based on the true, but sketchy, story of The Lost Woman of San Nicolas, who lived alone on a small island off the Pacific Coast during the mid-1800's (information included in the author's note). Drawing from very few recorded details, O'Dell has imagined a compelling story that colors in the life and struggles of young Karana as she adapts to a new life without family or companions. With quiet confidence she prepares for each day and each season with hope that the great ship and her people will return for her. Through time she builds herself a new home, defeats the pack of wild dogs that killed her brother, and finds profound friendship in the bevy of animals that inhabit the island. Told in first person, this poignant narration is free of self-pity or dramatics. Karana simply and cleanly takes care of the business of surviving. The strong element of triumph over trial will earn devoted readers for many years to come.
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