This is a hardback book in good condition with a tear in the cover cloth at the bottom of the book's spine. There is an inscription dated 1932, in ink, inside the front cover.

The book includes an introduction and notes by Andrew Sanders.

One of the classics of English children's literature, and one of the earliest books written specifically for boys. It is a very interesting snapshot of life at the public school in early Victorian times.

Dr. Arnold (a real personage) has recently taken over as the master of Rugby and is trying to instill the ethics of the good, Christian British gentleman while reining in the bullying and other nastiness that public schools have been known for. Most important of the lessons Tom learns is that of fighting the good fight—for what you believe in, for the good of a friend, for the underdog.

After a difficult period of tricks and trouble, Tom is given a younger, new boy to take under his wing and it is then that he really begins to learn the life lessons that Dr. Arnold values.