Characters
Who is the protagonist of the story?
Karana.
What is the name of Karana’s island?
Island of the Blue Dolphins
Why do the Aleuts come to the island?
To hunt otters.
What does the word gnawed mean?
To chew on something persistently.
What do the dolphins symbolize so far?
They symbolize hope and guidance.
What is the name of Karana’s younger brother?
Ramo
What is the main food source Karana gathers after being left behind
Shellfish and roots.
Why does Karana jump off the ship leaving the island?
To stay with her brother, Ramo.
What does kelp refer to in the story?
A type of seaweed found near the island.
What is the main reason the Aleuts and the villagers fight?
The Aleuts do not pay the villagers the agreed amount for hunting otters.
Who leads the Aleuts to the island?
Captain Orlov.
What does Karana use to scare away the wild dogs
Fire
What does the tribe decide to do after the battle with the Aleuts?
Leave the island on a large ship.
What is a parley?
A discussion or meeting, especially one between enemies.
What does Karana vow after Ramo’s death?
She vows to kill the wild dogs.
What happens to Chief Chowig during the battle with the Aleuts?
He is killed
What resource does Karana use to repair her canoe while trying to leave the island?
Fibers from her skirt
What happens to Ramo after the ship leaves?
He is killed by the wild dogs.
What does befall mean in the context of the story?
To happen to someone, often something bad.
What is the meaning of Karana’s secret name?
It is Won-a-pa-lei, meaning "The Girl with the Long Black Hair."
Who becomes the new chief after Chief Chowig’s death?
Kimki
How does Karana protect herself while sleeping?
She builds a fence made of whale ribs.
What decision does Karana make about weapons even though it is forbidden for women?
She decides to make weapons to protect herself.
What does fleet mean when referring to the Aleuts' ships?
A group of ships.
What have we learned about Karana's character so
She is strong willed, smart, clear headed and creative