The Wretched Stone: Summary And Critical Analysis

Summary of The Wretched Stone -Van Allsburg Summary The Wretched Stone begins with a notice reading: "Excerpts from the log of the Rita Ann. Randall Ethan Hope, Captain." We read, then, the captain's record of an extraordinary journey. The captain writes about loading supplies onto the ship at the start of the voyage, and the fine crew that has been assembled by first mate Mr. Howard. He notes that many of the men are avid readers, musicians, and storytellers, and as the voyage is underway, they are able to entertain themselves wonderfully. The captain records the sighting of an uncharted island and decides to disembark with his crew to look for fruit and freshwater. Then he records their sojourn into the island's interior. He describes lush vegetation that bears no fruit, bitter water, and an overpowering sickly sweet smell. He also describes an object the crew found and brought aboard: a grey rock with one smooth and glowing surface. As the crew sets sail again, the c…