Most of the boys in the Catholic school called Milwaukee College are engrossed with baseball and keeping up with their studies. When twelve year old Claude Lightfoot is transferred into the school, he has a rocky time of it. While Claude excels in baseball and other playground activities, he also has a knack of annoying the other boys, particularly one who is a mean bully. And though Claude is mentally bright, his hyperactive classroom behavior is a trial to his teacher. The problem that must be solved is whether Claude can settle down to become a responsible young man capable of self control. Along the way he must cope with a series of trials and obstacles, especially as he tries to achieve his great goal: to be worthy to make his first Holy Communion. - Summary by Carol Pelster

Most of the boys in the Catholic school called Milwaukee College are engrossed with baseball and keeping up with their studies. When twelve year old Claude Lightfoot is transferred into the school, he has a rocky time of it. While Claude excels in baseball and other playground activities, he also has a knack of annoying the other boys, particularly one who is a mean bully. And though Claude is mentally bright, his hyperactive classroom behavior is a trial to his teacher. The problem that must be solved is whether Claude can settle down to become a responsible young man capable of self control. Along the way he must cope with a series of trials and obstacles, especially as he tries to achieve his great goal: to be worthy to make his first Holy Communion. - Summary by Carol Pelster

"Tom Playfair; or Making a Start" by Francis J. Finn, S.J. is a compelling tale of a young boy's journey through the challenges of adolescence and the importance of making a fresh start. As Tom navigates the trials of school life, he learns valuable lessons about friendship, integrity, and the significance of faith. This timeless narrative resonates with listeners today, reminding us of the universal struggles of youth and the enduring power of personal growth and redemption. Finn's storytelling captures the essence of resilience and the transformative impact of positive choices, making it a poignant listen for anyone seeking inspiration and encouragement in their own life journey.

Most of the boys in the Catholic school called Milwaukee College are engrossed with baseball and keeping up with their studies. When twelve year old Claude Lightfoot is transferred into the school, he has a rocky time of it. While Claude excels in baseball and other playground activities, he also has a knack of annoying the other boys, particularly one who is a mean bully. And though Claude is mentally bright, his hyperactive classroom behavior is a trial to his teacher. The problem that must be solved is whether Claude can settle down to become a responsible young man capable of self control. Along the way he must cope with a series of trials and obstacles, especially as he tries to achieve his great goal: to be worthy to make his first Holy Communion. - Summary by Carol Pelster