Scott O'Dell
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Trade & Referemce Publis
Copyright: 1960
Pages: 192
Reading level: 8-12
Genre: Historical Fiction
Summary:
Wonapalei (or Karana, her secret name) is marooned for 18 years on the island. Aleuts have convinced her people to trade with them, but leave without paying. The Chief leaves the island for help and sends a boat back for his people to go to the main land. Karana's little brother is not on the boat when it leaves and she swims back so he won't be alone. Ramo, Karana's brother, is killed by the wild dogs that took over the village. Karana must now do the tasks that she wasn't previously allowed to do because she is a woman. She makes a spear, builds a canoe, and vows to avenge her brother's death. She injures the leader of the pack and has a change of heart, she tames the wolf and names him Rontu for Fox Eyes. Karana makes a life for herself, makes a home and stocks a cave full of provisions. One summer the Aleuts return and Karana takes refuge in her cave. She meets a girl named Tutok who takes care of the Aleuts domestic duties. They exchange presents and become friends. She meets sailors and they take her to the mission in Santa Barbara.
Recommendations and Conflicts:
I would recommend this book to a sixth grader who loves to read. There is a lot of death and abandonment in this book.
Reaction:
I enjoyed reading about Karana and her struggle. I felt sorry for her when she realized that she was the last of her people and that no one else spoke her language.
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