Summary of Plot

"The Coral Island" is centered around three boys stranded on a South Pacific island.

Being the only survivors of a shipwreck, Ralph, Jack, and Peterkin find themselves alone on the coral reef of a large uninhabited island. The first half of the story follows the trio through their hardships involved in finding food, water, and shelter. They find it difficult to rely only on what they can provide for themselves.

In the second half of the book more conflict arises, and they face predators and conflict in control. They later discover native Polynesians which they have to make peace with, and British pirates which they have to protect themselves from.

The Coral Island

1858

Torwards the end of the novel they sail to the island of mango where missionaries are trying to convert the population to Christianity. After attempting to help some of the natives, including Tararo and Avatea, they sail home with the new knowledge they have gained from their journey.