Magpie,
I think kenrup's starter set will be the best value for you. As for the brush and soap, spend ten bucks at the drug store for both of them. If he enjoys it and sticks with it, he will invest in a softer brush and a higher quality soap. I will warn you, if he does enjoy straight shaving, you may be held responsible for nudging him onto the slippery slope of acquisition disorder. My only other advise is to direct him to the forum. He will get all of the help and info a noobie could possibly need here.

Good luck.