The Story of the Rock

"The Story of the Rock" by R. M. Ballantyne is a late 19th-century historical novel about the building of the Eddystone lighthouse and one family's connection to this ambitious project. The story follows John Potter, a stone cutter who becomes a lighthouse keeper, and his lively son, Tommy, as they face numerous challenges and setbacks while trying to build a structure that can withstand the power of the sea. The book begins by introducing the family and their involvement in the early attempts to construct the lighthouse, including John's difficult relationship with his wife, Mrs. Potter, and Tommy's youthful curiosity. Through their experiences, including capturing by a French Warship, the novel explores themes of determination, engineering ingenuity, and the constant battle against the forces of nature, all set against a backdrop of daring adventures and historical events.