The Bonfire

A spark of mischief. A blaze of consequence. A lesson in redemption.

Set in a quiet English village during the 19th century, The Bonfire by Francis E. Paget is a heartfelt Victorian moral tale that weaves tradition, community, and repentance into one deeply moving narrative. When a group of young boys mistreats the reclusive Jasper Crabbe and accidentally sets off a fire during the annual Guy Fawkes Night celebration, the resulting blaze destroys the winter hay supply of a poor widow, Dinah Marjoram.

Under the guidance of the village vicar, Mr. Warlingham, and with the unlikely help of Mr. Crabbe himself, the boys embark on a redemptive journey—raising funds through a communal garden to right their wrongs. As they labor, learn, and give back, they come to understand the true meaning of responsibility, humility, and Christian charity.

Narrated with warmth and grace by Richard Stibbard, this timeless tale offers a powerful message of restitution and the enduring value of doing what's right—even after a mistake.