Summary
Highlights
Ralph, a fair-haired boy, explores the island after the plane crash. He meets Piggy, a stout boy with glasses, and they discuss their predicament, realizing there are no adults."He was clambering heavily among the creepers and broken trunks when a bird a vision of red and yellow flashed upwards..."
Piggy expresses concern, suggesting they might be stuck until they die, while Ralph is excited about the freedom from grown-ups. Ralph describes the beautiful island environment, marveling at the lagoon, beach, and coral reef.
Ralph discovers a conch shell in the lagoon, and Piggy recognizes its potential for calling others. Ralph uses the conch to produce a loud sound, attracting more boys from around the island.
Boys begin to gather, including younger children and a choir led by Jack Merridew. Jack and his choir, dressed in black cloaks, arrive in a disciplined, military fashion.
The boys decide they need a chief. Jack believes he should be chief due to his leadership of the choir, but Ralph is elected because he blew the conch. Ralph, as chief, appoints Jack to lead the hunters.
Ralph, Jack, and Simon embark on an expedition to confirm it's an island and explore. Piggy is excluded from the expedition, much to his dismay. They explore the terrain, observing the different rock formations and vegetation.
The boys reach the summit of the mountain, confirming they are on an island and observing the vast ocean and coral reef. They discover a 'candle bud' plant, and then encounter a piglet caught in vines.
Jack raises his knife to kill the piglet but hesitates, unable to strike the living creature. He makes excuses for his failure but vows that next time there will be no mercy.