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From Horn Book

May 1, 2017
University of South Carolina English professor Schwebel here valuably provides the 1961 Newbery winner with a wealth of context. Her book contains the complete text of O'Dell's classic novel, richly annotated, along with a lengthy introduction that explores the author's career, the genesis of Island of the Blue Dolphins and its basis in California history, the novel's publishing history and adoption by schools, and its shifting critical fortunes. Appended material includes two chapters excised from the manuscript in editing, an essay by an archaeologist about San Nicolas Island and the Lone Woman who inspired the novel, and another placing the story in the context of American Indian history. roger sutton

(Copyright 2017 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)

From AudioFile Magazine

Narrator Tantoo Cardinal more than succeeds in delivering a lovely listening experience. Her accent and pronunciation are first rate. The music adds to the story with an ethnic sound. When the Russians invaded the island, many islanders were killed or fled. Some, like the young girl, Karana, were accidentally left behind. Karana's survival in remote isolation is moving and unforgettable. Both the text and Cardinal's style make the listener feel he's part of Karana's isolation and maturation. S.G.B. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine