The story follows a young Scottish boy with aspirations of pursuing a career in science. His journey is fraught with challenges, primarily due to his father, a miserly laborer who refuses to provide him with any financial support. The father’s stinginess extends to denying the boy proper school clothing, forcing him to wear a hideous, bright green homemade suit—giving the story its title. Eventually, the boy’s uncle steps in to help, supplying the funds needed for essential books so he can attend university. This novel was later adapted into a film.