Rachel Crawford of
Bonza Schooldays writes:
'The Boys of Springdale centres on a conflict that arises between the boarders when they are collecting a subscription for a new cricket ball, and one of them, Steven Kent, refuses to contribute. The boarders send him to Coventry, not realising that he has been saving money to buy a pet for Philip, an invalided boy he visits. Steven is teased and has tricks played on him. When the Head discovers the boys' ill treatment of Steven he tells them at the School Prize Giving about Steven's kindness to the sick boy. The boys realise their wrongdoing, and at Mr Blaxland's encouragement, plan to give Philip a seaside convalescent holiday. Steven is given a special conduct prize, voted for by the boys, because of his good character.'
