Brief Description: A Native American girl is left behind on her island after the rest of her people were forcibly relocated to mainland California. Based on the true story of The Lone Woman.
Geographical Setting: California, North America, San Nicolas Island, United States
Historical Era: 19th Century
Date Range: 1835-1853
Keywords: Aleuts, Channel Islands, Ghalas-at, Lone Woman of San Nicolas Island, Native American Nicoleno, Native Americans, orphan, otter hunting, Russians, Santa Barbara Mission, Tongva
Original Publication: 1960
Suitable for Grades: 4-8th
Target Audience: Middle Grade
Librarian's Review
Based on the true story of the “Lone Woman” of San Nicolas Island, Juana Maria, this work is a fictionalized version of what twelve-year-old Karana’s daily life must have entailed, after she was accidentally abandoned by her family of Nicoleno (Tongva) natives. Karana’s inspiring courage and resilience help her live for years on the isolated island until she is rescued.
This book is used in many classroom and home school settings. Some modern educators such as Debbie Reese advocate a more critical reading of this book. I think it is important for educator’s to be aware that decades-old depictions of many people can range from oversimplified to downright offensive. You can read Reese’s deep analysis here.
Many free educator resources are available for this novel: from publisher Scholastic, from the National Park Service, and from LitWit Workshops. More information about the Lone Woman can be found on this NPS Channel Islands website, including a 45-minute live video presentation for school children.
I read this book some time ago, before I fully developed my plans for this website. My short review and lack of key word detail in no way reflects my impression of this novel. I recommend this novel as an accessible and engrossing introduction to Native Americans in California and as a springboard for further learning.