The Great Brain was first published in 1967, but the antics of Tom are still relevant and charming. Tom comes from family of Catholics in a town that is heavily Mormon in Oklahoma. The author handles the religious differences with humor, as well as in the perspective of children.
In this first Great Brain, Tom and his brothers come across many adventures, including helping a new Greek friend learn how to fight, saving friends lost in a cave, and getting indoor plumbing! While Tom has financial motivators in most of his antics, the boys learn many lessons about friendship, family, and life.