92 pages • 3 hours read
Island of the Blue Dolphins
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Book Brief
192
Novel • Fiction
San Nicolas Island • 19th Century
1960
Middle grade
10-14 years
1000L
Super Short Summary
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
Reviews & Readership
349,922 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
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.
Who Should Read Island of the Blue Dolphins?
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.
349,922 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
192
Novel • Fiction
San Nicolas Island • 19th Century
1960
Middle grade
10-14 years
1000L
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