What Parents Should Know
Lyrical writing and an unusual and compelling survival story based on fact overcome the slow pacing and create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Common Sense Media Review
Based on a true story, this novel shows how one smart, innovative girl uses her knowledge of the world around her to ensure her own survival. Trapped alone on her island, she draws on everything her tribe has taught her about finding food and shelter. Through many challenges, Karana remains intent not only on survival, but also on making a happy life for herself, showing incredible strength of purpose. Much like Gary Paulsen's Hatchet, this book is a realistic portrayal of the drastic changes which may occur in someone leading a solitary existence.

Karana finds strengths she never knew she had, which young readers find appealing. "If I had to live by myself, I think I could figure out how to tame the animals too. I think I would learn all kinds of new things," says twelve-year-old Chris. The book is full of vivid natural description, from the general geography of the island, to the specific details of how Karana obtains and prepares food for herself and her animal companions.

Though the book is about a girl who is stranded alone for eighteen years, it is not a lonely story. Kids will keep reading to find out not only how Karana keeps herself alive, but the many ways she has fun on her island, as well as the many non-human friends she finds. When her rescue finally comes, she leaves the island a different person than the girl who was stranded there so long ago. The joy of the book comes from watching this change take place.

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