The Islander (Rylant novel)

The Islander is a children's novel written by Cynthia Rylant, published in 1998. The story centers on Walter, a young boy living a solitary life on a small island. Walter is the lighthouse keeper and, aside from infrequent visits from supply ships, lives completely alone. The novel explores themes of loneliness, connection, and the power of imagination. Walter's isolation is gradually disrupted by the arrival of a wooden dog, which washes ashore and becomes his companion. The dog, which Walter names "Lamp," helps him to confront his solitude and open himself up to the possibility of friendship and a wider world. The Islander is known for its simple prose, evocative descriptions of island life, and exploration of profound emotional themes suitable for young readers. Rylant uses the island setting as a metaphor for Walter's internal world, reflecting his initial isolation and subsequent growth.