Georgie

Beside a country brook, Georgie spends much of his day in an easy chair, with books, tools and playthings close at hand. His long illness limits his movement, but his friend Jonas helps him find pleasure in making wooden windmills, boxes and wagons. Other boys begin buying his work, and Georgie offers his earnings to his father. Their exchange gives this children's story a concrete way to explore affection, useful work and the care friends can give one another.

Jacob Abbott also follows Rollo and his cousin James as they prepare to spend money on toys. During a carriage ride, Rollo's mother explains the difference between an object that briefly catches the eye and one that supports repeated play. Simple conversations and familiar household objects carry the lessons. Readers interested in older children's fiction will find a close view of everyday country life and an unusually practical discussion of choosing, making and sharing playthings.