Summary

Chapter 1

Aleut hunters come to the island of the blue dolphins to harvest otter pelts. Karana sees their ship from a distance, but she continues to gather roots. Her six-year-old brother Ramo sees the ship and runs to the shore. When the ship arrives, Karana’s people hide in the bushes. Some come out to greet Captain Orlov when he is rowed ashore by the Aleuts. He says that he comes in peace, and he wants to bargain for the right to hunt otter. Karana’s father, Chief Chowig, says that they can hunt if they split the proceeds. Captain Orlov agrees, and the hunters set up camp.

Chapter 2

Captain Orlov’s men move their things ashore. Karana says that the island is two miles long, with springs and abundant natural resources. Karana says that her father warns his people against...