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A Kid for Two Farthings
Wolf Mankowitz
#UD4612 Paperback, 128 pages; 2009 (1953) $14.00
Members' Price: $11.90

  Originally published in 1953 and set around that same time, A Kid for Two Farthings is a heartwarming novella that brings to vivid life the poverty-stricken immigrant community of London's East End. Six-year-old Joe is in need of some good fortune. Not only do he and his mother need money to join his father in Africa, but their down-on-their-luck neighbors could use some financial help as well. So it seems miraculous when Joe finds a small unicorn--which many mistake for a crippled baby goat--at the animal market! Since everyone knows that unicorns grant wishes, Joe hopes that the sickly animal is strong enough to help Mr. Kandinsky procure a new steam press for his trouser-making shop, to make Shmule win his wrestling match so he can afford a diamond ring for his girl, and, of course, to reunite Joe's family. A sweet story about hope, kindness, and the innocent wisdom of children, A Kid for Two Farthings is a charming read for adults nostalgic for simpler times. (AG)