Here we have White Dolphin by Gill Lewis themes.
Theme 1: Overfishing and Environmental Conservation
Overfishing is a central theme in White Dolphin by Gill Lewis. The novel is set in a fishing community in Cornwall that is gradually suffering due to reckless fishing practices and marine habitat destruction. Through characters like Dougie Evans, the writer highlights how large trawlers exploit the sea for profit without considering long-term consequences. Kara’s mother, Kay Wood, a marine biologist, strongly opposed such cruelty and campaigned against illegal dredging. As a result, Kara develops a deep emotional bond with the sea and its creatures. Eventually, Kara and Felix play a crucial role in raising awareness, collecting signatures, and protecting marine life, showing that determined individuals can bring positive change.
Theme 2: Disability and Inner Strength
Here we have White Dolphin by Gill Lewis themes.
Disability is another powerful theme in White Dolphin. Kara and her father are dyslexic, while Felix suffers from cerebral palsy, which limits his physical mobility. However, the novel presents disability not as a weakness, but as a source of resilience and strength. Despite their challenges, both Kara and Felix show remarkable courage and determination. They save a dolphin calf, stand up against injustice, and ultimately rescue Jake and Ethan during the storm. Their actions challenge society’s stereotypes and prove that physical or learning disabilities do not define one’s abilities or worth.
Theme 3: Resource Depletion and Human Greed
Resource depletion runs parallel to the theme of overfishing in the novel. Powerful trawler owners exploit marine resources excessively, leading to a rapid decline in sea life. Consequently, the balance of the marine food chain is threatened. Gill Lewis highlights how greed blinds people to environmental damage and future consequences. While a few courageous individuals raise their voices, many remain silent out of fear or financial dependence. Through this theme, the author warns that unchecked exploitation of natural resources leads to irreversible loss.
Theme 4: Courage and Standing Up for What Is Right
Courage is a defining theme in White Dolphin. Kara repeatedly shows bravery by standing up to bullies, challenging powerful adults, and risking her life to save both dolphins and humans. Similarly, Felix overcomes fear and physical limitations to help others. Their courage inspires change in people like Dougie Evans, whose hardened heart eventually softens. The novel suggests that moral courage—doing what is right despite fear—is more powerful than physical strength.
Theme 5: Hope, Healing, and Emotional Resilience
Hope is a sustaining force throughout the novel. Kara’s belief in the white dolphin symbolises her hope that her mother is still alive. Even after learning the truth about her mother’s death, Kara does not collapse emotionally. Instead, she learns to heal and move forward. Likewise, the reunion of the dolphin calf with its mother reinforces the idea that loss can be followed by renewal. Gill Lewis conveys that hope gives individuals the strength to endure pain and rebuild their lives.
Hope you found White Dolphin by Gill Lewis themes useful.