How does O’Dell’s use of first-person narration shape the reader’s understanding of Karana? How does telling Island of the Blue Dolphins from Karana’s perspective affect other characters’ development and build suspense?

Karana sees both Rontu and Tutok as enemies when they enter the novel, but they later become beloved friends. How do Rontu and Tutok each gain Karana’s trust, and how do they develop the novel’s theme of Building Trust and Friendship?

Although Karana spends much of the novel alone, several supporting characters make significant contributions to her story. Select two supporting characters and compare and contrast their personalities and character arcs. How do the two characters either advance the plot, develop a theme, or contribute to Karana’s character development?