Island of the Blue Dolphins Study Questions & Topics for Discussion

Island of the Blue Dolphins Topics for Discussion

Discuss how Scott O'Dell's story parallels the true story of the Lone Woman of San Nicolas Island.

Discuss how Rontu took the place of Karana's brother Ramo.

Discuss the wide array of emotions Karana must have been going through at different points in the story and how those feelings relate to the other characters.

Discuss the weather patterns and natural elements of the island and how closely they relate to the actual life on San Nicolas Island.

If you were stuck alone on an island for many years, with nothing besides nature, could you survive? Explain the different ways Karana displays her great survival skills.

Why is Karana's insistence on getting revenge on the dogs eliminated when she has the opportunity to kill Rontu?

Why is Karana afraid of the ghosts and memories of her ancestors? How much do her beliefs change once there is no one there to lead...
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