Tommy Wideawake

by H. H. (Henry Howarth) Bashford

"Tommy Wideawake" by H. H. Bashford is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the titular character, Tommy, a unique and free-spirited boy full of imagination and energy. Set against the backdrop of a little English village, the narrative delves into themes of friendship, nature, and the adventures of boyhood, as seen through the eyes of various adults who express their hopes and concerns for Tommy's upbringing. The opening of the book introduces us to a group of middle-aged men discussing Tommy Wideawake, the colonel's only son, as they sit around a fire in a study. They reflect on their friendships and the peculiarities of their lives, while the colonel expresses his wish for Tommy to have a meaningful childhood, distinct from the typical education system. He enlists the help of his old friends to mentor Tommy during his holidays, allowing the boy freedom to discover the world around him. The set-up establishes the camaraderie and the contrasting perspectives of the characters as they prepare to take on the task of guiding Tommy in his formative years.