This question is for anyone who has read Island of the Blue Doplphins by Scott O' Dell. I don't quite understand the ending, like what happens? They mention that the ship was sunk as it was going so does that mean that all of Karana's people died?

Also, any facts on Robinson Crusoe, or The Lost Woman of San Nicolas, would be appreciated; This book is based upon her life.
Thanks -MC

Site on the lone worman of San Nicholas.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juana_Maria

Be sure to read the last chapter summary. That is where the author usually explains why he has written this particular book. Also look at themes and motifs.
http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/dolphins/

Good site on Crusoe sources.

http://academic.brooklyn.cuny.edu/english/melani/novel_18c/defoe/sources.html

Thank you :)

You are welcome...by the way Blue Dolphin is a goooood book. <G>

In order to fully understand the ending of "Island of the Blue Dolphins" by Scott O'Dell, it is important to have read the book. However, based on your question, I can provide some information to help you understand it better.

In the ending of the book, Karana, the main character, is the only one left on the island. The ship that was supposed to come back and take her and her people away is indeed sunk. It is implied that most, if not all, of her people died in the incident, but the exact fate of her people is not explicitly stated.

To get a better understanding of the ending, I recommend re-reading the last few chapters of the book where the sinking of the ship is described. Pay attention to the details provided and the emotions expressed by Karana. This will help you piece together the implications of the event.

Now, moving on to Robinson Crusoe, written by Daniel Defoe, and "The Lost Woman of San Nicolas," the book based upon her life:

1. "Robinson Crusoe": This novel tells the story of a man named Robinson Crusoe who becomes stranded on a deserted island after a shipwreck. It is a fictional work that explores the themes of survival, self-reliance, and the effects of isolation. To gain a better understanding of the book, I recommend reading it in its entirety. You can find a copy in a library or purchase it online or at a bookstore.

2. "The Lost Woman of San Nicolas": This book is based on the true story of a woman named Juana Maria, also known as the Lone Woman of San Nicolas. She was a Native American woman who lived alone on San Nicolas Island, off the coast of California, for 18 years in the 19th century. The book, written by Scott O'Dell, fictionalizes her story and offers a speculative account of her life and survival on the island. To learn more about the Lost Woman of San Nicolas, I recommend reading O'Dell's book or conducting further research on her life and historical records.

Remember, reading the books themselves will provide you with a more comprehensive understanding of the stories and characters involved.