Oscar vs the Grand Old Dude Named York (Ross Curnow, Walker)

A fresh and hilarious new voice in children’s literature springs forth from the page with delightful force in Oscar vs the Grand Old Dude Named York by debut novelist Ross Curnow. Oscar’s life is one zany mishap after another, mostly thanks to his neighbour, Mr York, who repeatedly pulls pranks on him and seems to want him dead. This summer, Oscar makes two big decisions: he will get to the bottom of why Mr York is after him, and he will ask Tiffany Crandle—who has no idea he exists—out on a date. When Oscar gives Tiffany a jewel-encrusted necklace bequeathed to him by his grandfather, it sets off a series of whacky incidents: Tiffany mistakes Oscar for someone else, there’s a break-in at Oscar’s grandfather’s antique shop, the federal police begin snooping around, and Mr York’s attempts to kill Oscar escalate. Can Oscar settle the score with Mr York once and for all? Curnow knocks it out of this park with a terrific story that’s perfect for readers who enjoy Tristan Bancks, Liz Pinchon and Morris Gleitzman. With rich humour and a protagonist that’s easy to root for, Oscar vs the Grand Old Dude Named York is a ripper read. Emerging and independent readers aged 8+ will soak up this story that rockets along to a satisfying climax.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Brenton Cullen is an emerging writer and passionate collector of children’s books. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

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