A Literature Kit. The classic, Island of the Blue Dolphins is based on the true story of a woman marooned on San Nicholas Island during the early 1800s. Karana, her family and her people are living on the island when the Aleuts (Russians) arrive to hunt the sea otters. The Aleuts kill the natives leaving Karana and her brother Ramo stranded on the island. Soon after wild dogs kill Ramo, and Karana is left to struggle on her own. For eighteen years she lives to survive the weather, the animals, the Aleuts and the loneliness. This story is about a strong and courageous woman who proved that with determination, nothing is insurmountable.