Island of the Blue Dolphins is a fictional novel based on the true story of the Lone Woman of San Nicolas. Karana is stuck on an island, forced to survive harsh weather, wild dogs, and enduring solitude, wondering if she’ll ever be rescued and returned to her family. These storyboarding activities will help students understand important details and concepts.
Russian Aleuts come to Karana's island to hunt for otter pelts. The two peoples come to an agreement that allows the Aleuts to hunt for pelts, keeps the tribe safe, and compensates the people of Ghalas-at.
CLIMAX
Soon, the Aleuts go back on the established deal. A bloody battle ensues between the Aleuts and the native islanders.
FALLING ACTION
The villagers leave the island, but Ramo gets left behind. Karana leaps out of the boat and swims to shore so her little brother would not be alone. The two siblings must work together to survive on their own.
RESOLUTION
Wild dogs attack and kill Ramo. In her grief, Karana burns down her village because she can't stand to be there by herself any more. She vows to kill the wild dogs, but decides not to kill the pack leader and tames him. She names him Rontu, or Fox Eyes.
The Aleuts return to her island and Karana retreats to a cave. She makes friends with Tutok, an Aleut girl. Karana yearns for human company, even if not of her tribe. One day Tutok does not come at their normal time and Karana watches the Aleut ship sail away.
Karana is rescued from her island and from her solitude. She has been alone on the island for several years. She discovers that the rest of her village did not survive the journey on the ocean.