Over nearly two decades, Karana builds a home of whale bones, hunts for food, and develops a deep respect for the island's wildlife, eventually vowing to only hunt when absolutely necessary for survival.
The narrative is inspired by the true story of Juana Maria (the "Lone Woman of San Nicolas Island"), who lived alone on a Channel Island from 1835 to 1853. Island of the Blue Dolphins(1964)
Karana initially seeks revenge against the wild dogs, but after wounding the pack leader, she takes pity on him and nurses him back to health. She names him Rontu, and he becomes her loyal companion. Over nearly two decades, Karana builds a home
Russian fur traders and Aleut hunters arrive to hunt sea otters but refuse to pay as agreed. A violent battle breaks out, and Karana's father, the chief, is killed along with many others. She names him Rontu, and he becomes her loyal companion
Missionaries arrive to evacuate the remaining tribe members to the mainland. As the ship departs, Karana realizes her younger brother, Ramo, has been left behind. She jumps overboard and swims back to the island to stay with him.