The One Who Survived: Ada Blackjack Summary Class 7 English Oxford

Key Points of the Story

• Ada Blackjack joins an expedition to Wrangel Island led by Arctic explorer Vilhjalmur Stefansson.
• Ada faces challenges on the island, including hunting for food and enduring harsh conditions.
• Three members of the expedition set out for help but do not return, leaving Ada and Lorne behind.
• Ada perseveres, learns to hunt, survives alone, and is eventually rescued in August 1923.
• Ada's incredible story of survival and determination inspires many.

Detailed Summary

Vilhjalnmer Stefansson, an Arctic explorer, approached Ada with an offer. He wanted to colonize Wrangel Island, and he promised to provide medical treatment for Bennett and financial support for Ada. In return, Ada would join an expedition as a cook and seamstress, accompanying three American men: Lorne Knight, Hilton Galle, and Fred Maurer, and a Canadian, Allan Crawford.

The group set out for Wrangel Island in September 1921. Ada was determined to help her son and agreed to go on the journey. Despite concerns about her ability to endure the harsh Arctic conditions, she persevered.

Once they arrived on the island, they faced many challenges. They had to hunt for food and build shelter, including a snowhouse, to protect themselves from the cold. However, as time passed, their supplies began to run out, and winter was setting in. Lorne Knight fell ill, and it was clear that their situation was becoming dire.

In January 1923, Allan, Hilton, and Fred decided to cross the icy Chukchi Sea to seek help on the Siberian mainland, leaving Ada and Lorne behind. However, there was no news from them for months, and Lorne eventually passed away.

Ada was left alone, but she didn't give up. She taught herself how to hunt and survived by following a map left by Maurer. She even caught a fox to provide food for herself. She kept the fire going to stay warm and continued to hope for their return.

Finally, on August 23, 1923, after many months of isolation, Ada spotted a ship called the Donaldson. She informed them about the missing expedition members and was taken back to safety.

Upon her return, people were amazed at Ada's incredible story of survival. She explained that she had learned to fend for herself out of necessity and her love for her son, Bennett.

Ada's bravery and determination in the face of extreme adversity were truly inspiring. She was a symbol of hope and resilience, showing that even in the harshest conditions, one can survive with determination and resourcefulness.

Theme/ Message

Theme:

• The story highlights themes of survival, determination in tough times, and the power of hope and resilience.

Message:

• Even in the toughest situations, one can survive with determination and resourcefulness.
• Bravery and perseverance can lead to overcoming challenges.
• Love and family can be powerful motivators in times of hardship.

Difficult Words

1. Expedition: A journey or voyage, especially one with a specific purpose or mission.
2. Colonize: To establish a settlement or community in a new place.
3. Seamstress: A person who sews, especially one who is skilled in sewing clothes.
4. Harsh: Severe, difficult, or unforgiving.
5. Persevered: To continue with determination despite difficulties.
6. Dire: Extremely serious or urgent.
7. Isolation: Being alone or separated from others.
8. Resilience: The ability to withstand or recover from challenges and difficulties.
9. Adversity: Difficult or challenging circumstances.
10. Resourcefulness: The ability to find creative solutions and make the most of available resources.