A flat iron for a farthing, or, Some passages in the life of an only son

Reach for this book when your child is standing on the threshold of independence and needs to see how quiet integrity translates into a meaningful life. It is an ideal choice for a child who feels like an outsider or is struggling to find their footing in new social circles at school. This Victorian classic follows Regie, an only child, from his sheltered home life through the trials of boarding school and eventually into adulthood. It is a slow, thoughtful exploration of how childhood choices, even small ones like buying a flat iron for a farthing, ripple out to define our adult character. While the setting is historical, the emotional core focuses on empathy, the value of honesty, and the beauty of finding a chosen family. It offers a calming, moral anchor for middle-grade readers navigating the pressures of modern social expectations.