Make sure you've read the book before attempting to answer the questions. Print a copy of this assignment when you are finished.
Here's an excerpt to help with your review of the story.
Island of the Blue Dolphins
O'Dell, Scott
Newbery Award Winner
Readability: 7
Setting: San Nicholas Island
Main Character: Karana, an Indian girl
I called to my little brother, Ramo. he wind covered my voice. There was no answer. I was afraid.
"Where is my brother?" I cried. The ship was sailing, and there he was running along
the cliff holding the spear over his head. The ship began to move faster. I screamed.
"We cannot wait for Ramo, " the chief said. "If we do, the ship will crash on the rocks. "
This story takes place on the island of San Nicholas off the California coast. According to
the history of the early 1800's, a young Indian girl grew up alone on this tiny island.
When her people found themselves in danger from their enemies, they abandoned their homes.
The girl jumps from the ship to return to the island to stay with her brother who is accidentally left ashore.
She has many adventures as she must find food and shelter, face the sea otter hunters,
and other dangerous situations.
Questions:
1. What is the main idea of the story?
2. What caused the people to leave their island homes?
3. What happened to Ramo on the island?
4. Why had none of Karana's people returned for her?
5. Decide what special traits Karana developed and how they were accomplished.
