However, Morpurgo draws inspiration from his own experiences and the real world. He has spoken about how the story was influenced by:
* His childhood: He grew up in Devon, England, surrounded by the sea, which informs the book's setting and themes of survival.
* Real-life castaways: Morpurgo has researched stories of people stranded on islands, including the famous case of Alexander Selkirk, the inspiration for Daniel Defoe's "Robinson Crusoe."
* The power of nature: The novel emphasizes the beauty and danger of the natural world, reflecting Morpurgo's own deep respect for the environment.
While "Kensuke's Kingdom" is a work of fiction, it explores universal themes of human resilience, the importance of connection, and the transformative power of nature. These themes resonate with readers and make the story feel authentic and meaningful, even though it is not based on a specific true story.