Island of the Blue Dolphins cover
CE Pick ✦ Best Seller Award Winner

Island of the Blue Dolphins

Featured Reading List Award Winners Canonical Reading Best Sellers Books Turned Into Movies/Series Popular Reading
Recommended for Target Admissions Pathways by:

Overview & Summary

Based on the true story of a Native American woman left alone on a California island for eighteen years, this novel follows young Karana, who is stranded after her people evacuate and her brother is killed, and must learn entirely on her own to hunt, build shelter, and survive in complete isolation. Scott O'Dell's Newbery Medal-winning novel is a quietly powerful story of self-reliance and solitude.

Available Formats

  • 📖Hardcover
  • 📱Kindle
  • 📖Paperback

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Who This Book Is For

Designed for High school students (Grades 9–12) preparing for curricula at schools like The Carey School. It fits right into English Literature studies.

Grade LevelUpper (9-12)
Lexile ComplexityHigh School & Up (1100L+)

Why CE Recommends This Book

A foundational Classic text. Reading canonical literature builds deep comprehension, exposes students to mature writing styles, and prepares them to write thoughtful essays and participate in classroom discussions.

Academic & Admissions Takeaways
Grade & Readiness: Aligned for Upper (9-12).
Lexile Complexity: Targeted for High School & Up (1100L+).
Subject Alignment: Enhances historical understanding and essay writing in English Literature.
Reading Goal: Lexile growth, classroom discussion readiness & essay depth.