The first time I read the Island of the Blue Dolphins I was in high school and it somehow ended up in my personal collection. I recall liking it but thinking it was rather dull. This second time around however I was blown away by O'Dell's writing. The magic he makes weaving together such an intrinsic look into the past and with the feelings of young woman is inspiring. The incredible determination to stay sane by yourself is something I can only wonder about.