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Busted
When 12-year-old Oscar Aberdeen decided he would do anything to save the only home he's ever known, he didn't realize that anything would include theft, trespassing, gambling, a broken nose, grand theft auto, a federal prison, and a police car chase. He had no idea it would be so dangerous…or so fun. A heartfelt middle-grade romp from the New York Times-bestselling author of The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise.
Oscar Aberdeen is a bit of an oddball. He's an ace at playing bridge, loves Frank Sinatra, and attends a whole lot of funerals. He's also the youngest resident of Sunny Days retirement home by more than a half-century―and he wouldn't have it any other way. So when his grandpa's suddenly served an eviction notice that threatens their place at Sunny Days, he needs to find some cash. Fast.
Enter Jimmy Deluca, a shady elderly man with a reputation for being bad news, who makes Oscar an offer he can't refuse. He's got the drop on riches hidden away on the "outside" and he'll share the loot with Oscar on one condition: he busts him out of Sunny Days.
In this humdinger of an adventure, the ultimate odd couple, along with an uninvited stowaway, go from high-stakes escape to rollicking escapade as they search for the secret stash―and forge an unlikely friendship along the way. Will Oscar succeed in saving the only home he's ever known? Or will he have to fuggedaboutit and return a failure?
Oscar Aberdeen is a bit of an oddball. He's an ace at playing bridge, loves Frank Sinatra, and attends a whole lot of funerals. He's also the youngest resident of Sunny Days retirement home by more than a half-century―and he wouldn't have it any other way. So when his grandpa's suddenly served an eviction notice that threatens their place at Sunny Days, he needs to find some cash. Fast.
Enter Jimmy Deluca, a shady elderly man with a reputation for being bad news, who makes Oscar an offer he can't refuse. He's got the drop on riches hidden away on the "outside" and he'll share the loot with Oscar on one condition: he busts him out of Sunny Days.
In this humdinger of an adventure, the ultimate odd couple, along with an uninvited stowaway, go from high-stakes escape to rollicking escapade as they search for the secret stash―and forge an unlikely friendship along the way. Will Oscar succeed in saving the only home he's ever known? Or will he have to fuggedaboutit and return a failure?
352 pages, Hardcover
Published October 7, 2025
41 people are currently reading
3215 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
July 15, 2025
If I could give this book ten stars, I would! The whole time I was reading it I kept thinking it would be such a fun class read-aloud. I absolutely loved the storyline and the cast of characters was perfect. I am not sure if I needed tissues because I was laughing so hard or because I was bawling my eyes out. Regardless, it had all the feels.
I know this is book is going to be a big hit with teachers and students.
I know this is book is going to be a big hit with teachers and students.
June 3, 2025
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
Oscar Aberdeen has lived with his 75 year old grandfather, Pops, at the Sunny Days Retirement Community in New Jersey ever since the death of both of his parents when they were bring the infant Oscar home from the hospital. It's been a good life; Oscar is the head of the celebrations committee that plans parties, he gives many eulogies, and he knows how to dress for special occasions in a suit, dress shoes, and cufflinks. When the owner, Frank Howell, dies, his son takes over. Oscar meets Frank's granddaughter, Natasha, who offers some explanation when Pops' rent is increased so much that the two will have to leave and find another place to live. Natasha says that the community is running out of money since rents were never raised, and her father is hoping to turn the business around by getting tenants who can pay more. It's nothing personal. To Oscar, who has been raised with a plethora of grandparents, it is intensely personal. When new resident Jimmy DeLuca, a rumored ex-mobster, has a proposition for Oscar that might enable him and Pops to stay put, he's all ears. In exchange for help in breaking out of the rest home, Jimmy will give Oscar a substantial amount of cash, all obtained legally. The catch? Jimmy is 104 and on oxygen. Also, he'll be driving his own baby blue Kaiser Dragon on their adventure in New Jersey. Oscar uses his knowledge of the facility and its staff to bust Jimmy out, but encounter Natasha in her bathing suit, on the way to the hot tub. She wants in on the adventure or will alert the authorities. This necessitates a stop by the mall to buy her clothing, and Oscar even has to purchase unmentionables for her. She is a help, however, in taking care of Jimmy's hairless cat, Mr. Buttercup, on the road. Jimmy's "bucket list" starts off fairly tamely, with a fantastic dinner at an Italian restaurant. Oscar isn't happy with the "dine and ditch" approach, so he goes back to leave some of Jimmy's cash, which makes the next stop, picking up a $300 cigar, a bit more difficult. Oscar ends up getting punched, hence the black eye on the cover. Jimmy wants to apologize to his colleague, Thumbs, who is in prison, while Jimmy got away, and Jimmy somehow knows that Oscar has someone he needs to speak to there as well. The group visits the house where Jimmy lived with his wife and daughter Maria, and learn that the daughter's untimely death is what led Jimmy into a life of crime that he deeply regrets. There is a stop at a tattoo parlor, and also a gambling den, where Jimmy loses the car in a game of high stakes poker. Since the group needs wheels to get around, they steal a car. When a silver alert appears on the news, they realize that the kids' phones are being tracked, and turn them off. Jimmy's final item is to sit on the beach, where he was happy with Maria. Oscar is alarmed to find out that Jimmy's oxygen tank is almost empty, but Jimmy is not. Even though the police are closing in, the day is over for the group anyway, especially for Jimmy.
Strengths: I've been a fan of breaking senior citizens out of facilities since Cooney's 2006 Hit the Road, so getting Jimmy the Wrench out of Sunny Days was a great adventure. His possible dealings with the Mob makes this even more appealing; what middle schooler doesn't harbor vague thoughts of being on the wrong side of the law? Oscar doesn't, of course, since he has learned the most polite behavior on God's green earth, dagnabit. That's where having Natasha along for the ride comes in handy. She has a reason for seizing the day, and does it with a vengeance. The pacing of this books was particularly well done; we get just enough of Oscar's daily life to become invested in his continued residence, but are soon compelled onto the road in a sweet car with a complicated older individual. We don't get enough time with Jimmy, but what we learn of him is realistic, and his end, while a little sad, makes sense. I know that Gemeinhart's 2019 The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise has LOTS of fans among teachers and librarians; this will be a much bigger hit with actual tweens, since there is more adventure and less soul searching.
Weaknesses: Is it possible that middle grade books involving senior living communities is becoming a trend? We've seen this theme since Sonneblick's 2005 Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie, but I've not really talked with my students about how much they are interested in this. Also, Gemeinhart seems to be fond of killing off parents; this had a complicated, very realistic backstory twist that I don't want to spoil, but I did prefer Korman's artifice of having his main characters parents in Belgium with international careers so he could like in a senior facility with his grandmother in Old School.
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who like roadtrips with senior citizens and classic cars, like Cartaya's new A Hero's Guide to Summer Vacation, Bradley's The Road to Wherever, or Ponti's The Sherlock Society. The East Coast setting also reminded me a bit of Nokowitz's The Prince of Steel Pier.
Oscar Aberdeen has lived with his 75 year old grandfather, Pops, at the Sunny Days Retirement Community in New Jersey ever since the death of both of his parents when they were bring the infant Oscar home from the hospital. It's been a good life; Oscar is the head of the celebrations committee that plans parties, he gives many eulogies, and he knows how to dress for special occasions in a suit, dress shoes, and cufflinks. When the owner, Frank Howell, dies, his son takes over. Oscar meets Frank's granddaughter, Natasha, who offers some explanation when Pops' rent is increased so much that the two will have to leave and find another place to live. Natasha says that the community is running out of money since rents were never raised, and her father is hoping to turn the business around by getting tenants who can pay more. It's nothing personal. To Oscar, who has been raised with a plethora of grandparents, it is intensely personal. When new resident Jimmy DeLuca, a rumored ex-mobster, has a proposition for Oscar that might enable him and Pops to stay put, he's all ears. In exchange for help in breaking out of the rest home, Jimmy will give Oscar a substantial amount of cash, all obtained legally. The catch? Jimmy is 104 and on oxygen. Also, he'll be driving his own baby blue Kaiser Dragon on their adventure in New Jersey. Oscar uses his knowledge of the facility and its staff to bust Jimmy out, but encounter Natasha in her bathing suit, on the way to the hot tub. She wants in on the adventure or will alert the authorities. This necessitates a stop by the mall to buy her clothing, and Oscar even has to purchase unmentionables for her. She is a help, however, in taking care of Jimmy's hairless cat, Mr. Buttercup, on the road. Jimmy's "bucket list" starts off fairly tamely, with a fantastic dinner at an Italian restaurant. Oscar isn't happy with the "dine and ditch" approach, so he goes back to leave some of Jimmy's cash, which makes the next stop, picking up a $300 cigar, a bit more difficult. Oscar ends up getting punched, hence the black eye on the cover. Jimmy wants to apologize to his colleague, Thumbs, who is in prison, while Jimmy got away, and Jimmy somehow knows that Oscar has someone he needs to speak to there as well. The group visits the house where Jimmy lived with his wife and daughter Maria, and learn that the daughter's untimely death is what led Jimmy into a life of crime that he deeply regrets. There is a stop at a tattoo parlor, and also a gambling den, where Jimmy loses the car in a game of high stakes poker. Since the group needs wheels to get around, they steal a car. When a silver alert appears on the news, they realize that the kids' phones are being tracked, and turn them off. Jimmy's final item is to sit on the beach, where he was happy with Maria. Oscar is alarmed to find out that Jimmy's oxygen tank is almost empty, but Jimmy is not. Even though the police are closing in, the day is over for the group anyway, especially for Jimmy.
Strengths: I've been a fan of breaking senior citizens out of facilities since Cooney's 2006 Hit the Road, so getting Jimmy the Wrench out of Sunny Days was a great adventure. His possible dealings with the Mob makes this even more appealing; what middle schooler doesn't harbor vague thoughts of being on the wrong side of the law? Oscar doesn't, of course, since he has learned the most polite behavior on God's green earth, dagnabit. That's where having Natasha along for the ride comes in handy. She has a reason for seizing the day, and does it with a vengeance. The pacing of this books was particularly well done; we get just enough of Oscar's daily life to become invested in his continued residence, but are soon compelled onto the road in a sweet car with a complicated older individual. We don't get enough time with Jimmy, but what we learn of him is realistic, and his end, while a little sad, makes sense. I know that Gemeinhart's 2019 The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise has LOTS of fans among teachers and librarians; this will be a much bigger hit with actual tweens, since there is more adventure and less soul searching.
Weaknesses: Is it possible that middle grade books involving senior living communities is becoming a trend? We've seen this theme since Sonneblick's 2005 Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie, but I've not really talked with my students about how much they are interested in this. Also, Gemeinhart seems to be fond of killing off parents; this had a complicated, very realistic backstory twist that I don't want to spoil, but I did prefer Korman's artifice of having his main characters parents in Belgium with international careers so he could like in a senior facility with his grandmother in Old School.
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who like roadtrips with senior citizens and classic cars, like Cartaya's new A Hero's Guide to Summer Vacation, Bradley's The Road to Wherever, or Ponti's The Sherlock Society. The East Coast setting also reminded me a bit of Nokowitz's The Prince of Steel Pier.
May 6, 2025
How does Dan Gemeinhart do it, book after book after book?? This is another absolute page-turning high-stakes adventure that is bursting with incredible characters! Once again, he had me crying on one page, then howling with laughter the next. Highly recommend! This one would make such a fun class read-aloud!
did-not-finish
November 5, 2025I didn't like that the author needed to have a character that cussed and then the middle grade character would translate it as the word "Quack" instead of saying the F word. It just doesn't need to be in middle grade books. So, I DNFed it.
December 3, 2025
I really enjoy Dan’s writing style. Is it a book that has unrealistic life events happening that probably wouldn’t happen to a normal 12 year old? Yes! But does he make it feel totally normal? Yes!
October 23, 2025
A delight! Hilarious, heartwarming, and heartbreaking all at once. Ex-mobster convinces (bribes) middle grade boy to bust him out of his locked retirement community in order to spend the day doing the things he just wants to do one last time (his bucket list). But not everything (almost nothing) goes as planned.
August 14, 2025
4.5- A little more edgy than some of his others... lying, stealing, blackmail, buying bras... Fantastic characters though, and a plot that grabs you and won't let go until the last page. If you can set some moral compunctions aside, you will definitely enjoy this book.
Thanks Netgalley for the ARC! all opinions are my own.
Thanks Netgalley for the ARC! all opinions are my own.
September 27, 2025
Everything a great middle school read book should be!!! A few trigger warnings as death is covered extensively along a LOT of “quacking” instead of swearing. (But character is a gangster so not unexpected). I enjoyed the uncovering of layers with this unlikely trio that moved at a pace middle schoolers would appreciate with plenty of laughs and ridiculousness along the way.
August 30, 2025
5 stars
Dan Gemeinhart's characters have brought me so much joy, and Oscar Aberdeen is no exception.
Oscar is an unusual MG protagonist, who both reveals aspects of a typical 12-year-old and also some qualities of a senior citizen (or at least a much more mature adult). The latter can be largely attributed to Oscar's unusual upbringing. Oscar has been raised by his grandfather in a senior community due to the tragic absence of his parents. Though his parents are not part of his life, Oscar has been showered with love from his grandfather and the whole community, and this has also given Oscar an up-close view of the fragility of life, the joy of great music, and a strong moral compass. He's truly a remarkable kid.
Oscar ends up on quite an adventure with a resident and another youngster, and the details of this adventure really make the book, so they won't be spoiled here. Fans of the _Coyote_ books (and others in Gemeinhart's collection) will really appreciate the familiar (not repetitive - but, in other words, well articulated as expected) way this adventure is depicted, the careful treatment of challenging motifs, and the richness of these characters. This book will pluck all of your heartstrings, and you'll want to dive back in for another read or listen anyway.
I enjoy this author so much, and this newest book met my high incoming expectations. I look forward to recommending it to students and interested parties alike.
*Special thanks to NetGalley, Jordin Streeter at Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, and Macmillan Audio for this widget and alc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
Dan Gemeinhart's characters have brought me so much joy, and Oscar Aberdeen is no exception.
Oscar is an unusual MG protagonist, who both reveals aspects of a typical 12-year-old and also some qualities of a senior citizen (or at least a much more mature adult). The latter can be largely attributed to Oscar's unusual upbringing. Oscar has been raised by his grandfather in a senior community due to the tragic absence of his parents. Though his parents are not part of his life, Oscar has been showered with love from his grandfather and the whole community, and this has also given Oscar an up-close view of the fragility of life, the joy of great music, and a strong moral compass. He's truly a remarkable kid.
Oscar ends up on quite an adventure with a resident and another youngster, and the details of this adventure really make the book, so they won't be spoiled here. Fans of the _Coyote_ books (and others in Gemeinhart's collection) will really appreciate the familiar (not repetitive - but, in other words, well articulated as expected) way this adventure is depicted, the careful treatment of challenging motifs, and the richness of these characters. This book will pluck all of your heartstrings, and you'll want to dive back in for another read or listen anyway.
I enjoy this author so much, and this newest book met my high incoming expectations. I look forward to recommending it to students and interested parties alike.
*Special thanks to NetGalley, Jordin Streeter at Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, and Macmillan Audio for this widget and alc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
June 9, 2025
Grateful to Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group for sharing an early copy of an incredible new favorite middle grade story from Dan Gemeinhart!
Twelve year old Oscar has been living with his Pops at Sunny Days Retirement Community since he was a baby. The only home he’s ever known, Oscar loves it there, with activities like poker games, garden club, and craft time to keep him busy. When needed, he’s also the giver of eulogies, and he’s had plenty of opportunities to perfect his craft.
When the owner of the community passes away, his son takes over and decides to raise the residents’ rent. So when Sunny Days newest resident, Jimmy “the wrench” Deluca, offers Oscar a chance to earn some cash that might allow Pops and him to stay, it’s an offer Oscar can’t refuse. All Oscar has to do is bust Jimmy out of the retirement joint.
Traveling in a 1953 Kaiser Dragon, Oscar begins an adventure that includes trespassing, gambling, some punches to the face, grand theft auto, and a short visit to a federal prison.
As always, Gemeinhart has included an incredible cast of characters in this story of friendship, choices, home, and doing the right thing.
Readers will laugh. Cry. And hopefully learn to squeeze the quacking orange.
Publishes October 7th. Pre-order now.
ARC Page 339
“He taught me that you get only one life. So you should squeeze the orange. And he taught me that being good is a choice. It’s a choice any of us, and all of us, can make.”
Twelve year old Oscar has been living with his Pops at Sunny Days Retirement Community since he was a baby. The only home he’s ever known, Oscar loves it there, with activities like poker games, garden club, and craft time to keep him busy. When needed, he’s also the giver of eulogies, and he’s had plenty of opportunities to perfect his craft.
When the owner of the community passes away, his son takes over and decides to raise the residents’ rent. So when Sunny Days newest resident, Jimmy “the wrench” Deluca, offers Oscar a chance to earn some cash that might allow Pops and him to stay, it’s an offer Oscar can’t refuse. All Oscar has to do is bust Jimmy out of the retirement joint.
Traveling in a 1953 Kaiser Dragon, Oscar begins an adventure that includes trespassing, gambling, some punches to the face, grand theft auto, and a short visit to a federal prison.
As always, Gemeinhart has included an incredible cast of characters in this story of friendship, choices, home, and doing the right thing.
Readers will laugh. Cry. And hopefully learn to squeeze the quacking orange.
Publishes October 7th. Pre-order now.
ARC Page 339
“He taught me that you get only one life. So you should squeeze the orange. And he taught me that being good is a choice. It’s a choice any of us, and all of us, can make.”
September 18, 2025
Book Report: Busted
My Thoughts: Oh man…I love this book 💛Truly whatever Dan Gemeinhart crafts is a delight ✨The cover itself hints at the shenanigans waiting inside and I laughed out loud more than once…it was quacking hilarious 🦆😂 (IYKYK) Oscar Aberdeen is a little different from most kids…he’d rather play bridge 🃏sing along to Sinatra 🎶and hang out at a retirement home 🏠 than anywhere else. But when an eviction notice threatens the only home he’s ever known…Oscar finds himself teaming up with Jimmy Deluca a shady old timer 👴 with a wild plan that involves a breakout…a hidden stash 💰and a whole lot of chaos. As much as this book had me giggling 🤭 it also hit me in the heart ❤️It’s a road trip/adventure story 🚗 full of humor…unlikely friendships and tender truths that remind you to squeeze the quacking orange 🍊🦆 while you can.
My Question for Dan: Oscar’s quirks …Sinatra, bridge, funerals….are so specific. Did any of those come from you as a kid?
Thank you Macmillan Audio| Macmillan Young Listeners for the ALC
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
My Thoughts: Oh man…I love this book 💛Truly whatever Dan Gemeinhart crafts is a delight ✨The cover itself hints at the shenanigans waiting inside and I laughed out loud more than once…it was quacking hilarious 🦆😂 (IYKYK) Oscar Aberdeen is a little different from most kids…he’d rather play bridge 🃏sing along to Sinatra 🎶and hang out at a retirement home 🏠 than anywhere else. But when an eviction notice threatens the only home he’s ever known…Oscar finds himself teaming up with Jimmy Deluca a shady old timer 👴 with a wild plan that involves a breakout…a hidden stash 💰and a whole lot of chaos. As much as this book had me giggling 🤭 it also hit me in the heart ❤️It’s a road trip/adventure story 🚗 full of humor…unlikely friendships and tender truths that remind you to squeeze the quacking orange 🍊🦆 while you can.
My Question for Dan: Oscar’s quirks …Sinatra, bridge, funerals….are so specific. Did any of those come from you as a kid?
Thank you Macmillan Audio| Macmillan Young Listeners for the ALC
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
October 9, 2025
I’m in awe of how good this book was. Honestly probably one of the best audiobooks I have ever listened to. The story just sucked me in and I couldn’t put it down. This is the type of book that both adults and kids alike will love because it’s so relatable, but over-the-top. It has good laughs as well as sad moments, and the message is just so beautiful. I loved how this was about two kids who broke an old man out of a retirement home to help him with his bucket list. It was just amazing how many unconventional situations they got into, while trying to hide from the police. I honestly cannot express in words how amazing this book was and how much of a joy it was to read. If you have a middle grade reader or just enjoy reading them yourself, I highly recommend this one, especially the audiobook because it just makes such a great story.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted ALC, which does not affect my review.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted ALC, which does not affect my review.
July 23, 2025
For many people, Coyote Sunrise is probably Dan Gemeinhardt’s most memorable character. But Oscar Aberdeen is here to give Coyote a run for her money. At first, I was afraid this book might be something like Gordon Korman’s Schooled with its similar setting of a middle schooler being raised in an old folks home. However, that setting is where the similarities end. Oscar Aberdeen is indeed a 12-year-old living in an old folks home, but he gets roped in by one of the residents for a day of checking items off a bucket list. New friend Natasha somehow joins the escapades and many hijinks ensue. Gemeinhart’s Midnight Children has long been my favorite read aloud for my students, but I can’t wait to see how Busted goes over this fall.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Henry Holt and Co for the digital ARC.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Henry Holt and Co for the digital ARC.
December 22, 2025
I had an e-arc of this book on my kindle for a long time, and after not enjoying Gordon Korman's Old School, I was less than enthusiastic to read this book with a similar plot line. I'm not sure why kids living with grandparents in their retirement communities is a trend in children's books right now... I can't say I've ever seen evidence of it in real life, but alas, here we are.
The thing that this book had going for it compared to Korman's is that I actually cared about these characters. Gemeinhart creates people we actually learn to love through the course of the book, and that's why this book that was just meh got one extra star from me.
The story is just completely improbable but yet the kind of silly adventure that middle grade readers will love.
The thing that this book had going for it compared to Korman's is that I actually cared about these characters. Gemeinhart creates people we actually learn to love through the course of the book, and that's why this book that was just meh got one extra star from me.
The story is just completely improbable but yet the kind of silly adventure that middle grade readers will love.
July 28, 2025
Dan Gemeinhart does it again! Captivating characters, just this side of believable, on a wild ride that middle grade readers will happily devour. “Busted” would be a great class read aloud, especially if the teacher is willing to explain the old-timey references to cars, cards, and music. There are some heavy themes, but nothing upper elementary kids can’t handle with an adult to help provide context. I can’t wait to add “Busted” to my school library.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC for review.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC for review.
September 19, 2025
I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC.
I wanted to love this one. It was a fun adventure and the main character is super likeable. I really found the main character to be very well written and funny. However I struggled with the pacing of this one. I think a lot of young readers will enjoy this one, but I just couldn't really get into story. It's fun and I love the messaging in this, especially the inclusion of concerns retired individuals have with making sure they still have housing while cost of living keeps going up.
I wanted to love this one. It was a fun adventure and the main character is super likeable. I really found the main character to be very well written and funny. However I struggled with the pacing of this one. I think a lot of young readers will enjoy this one, but I just couldn't really get into story. It's fun and I love the messaging in this, especially the inclusion of concerns retired individuals have with making sure they still have housing while cost of living keeps going up.
December 5, 2025
Children living in senior living communities is a hilarious trend. It's also hilarious that this book has the same narrator as Gordon Korman's Old School. But this one got me in a way Korman's did not. It's so outlandish and fun, and it ended up surprising me. Not necessarily the plot - you can see where it's going a mile away - but I did not realize how much I cared about these characters until I was freaking crying. If you need me, I'll be mulling over getting a tattoo of an orange.
November 3, 2025
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Dan Geimenhart never fails to impress me. This book was no exception. He truly has a gift for creating the best characters and stories that kids and adults alike will enjoy. I could see it possibly getting some Newbery attention.
Dan Geimenhart never fails to impress me. This book was no exception. He truly has a gift for creating the best characters and stories that kids and adults alike will enjoy. I could see it possibly getting some Newbery attention.
November 11, 2025
I grinned through this whole book. I’ve not always been a fan of Gemeinhart, but with this title he nailed why I’m so happy I read middle-grade books. The mix of ridiculous, bumping up against incredulity, and heart made me giddy. A very Gordon Korman type of book.
July 28, 2025
Wow. It’s been a long time since I’ve read a book that has made me laugh and cry and feel all the feels. Unique story, quirky characters, lots of suspenseful action, and a lot of love.
November 20, 2025
Such great characters, and really funny.
December 27, 2025
This was one of the best and most memorable books I have read for a long time. From when you first step into the book a boy named Oscar goes to his 49th funeral when he is 12. There is a girl at that funeral that Oscar met that later became his friend. Later in the book, Jimmy, Oscar, and Natasha go on a quest to complete a few things that Jimmy wants to do before he “dies.” Oscar starts to think he made the wrong decision of coming on the quest because things start to become sketchy. Will Oscar complete the quest with his friends or will Jimmy “die?”
P.S: This book almost made me cry. It showed me how books come to life, and how you can get 2-3 different feelings at once. I hope you have similar feelings about this book too.
P.S: This book almost made me cry. It showed me how books come to life, and how you can get 2-3 different feelings at once. I hope you have similar feelings about this book too.
November 20, 2025
Another great adventure by Dan Gemeinhart! His writing is always funny with quirky characters. This one has some darker elements which was a bit unexpected given the cartoony cover. Also, replacing the f word with quacking, might seem innocent, but seeing that word repeatedly still makes you think the real word, so that became tiresome. I honestly probably wouldn’t let too young of a child read it, but very creative!
May 8, 2025
Dan Gemeinhart’s Good Dog, and two Coyote Sunrise books have been my favs in his stack of earlier works and my students would have me add Scar Island and The Honest Truth to that stack. The Texas Bluebonnet Award nominees back a few years ago included his Some Kind of Courage. Gemeinhart has given grades 5-8 readers some terrific books but Busted may be every bit as good as his Coyote Sunrise duo. There is still an unusual home setting and an adventure in all three, but Oscar’s experience is clearly different than that of Coyote.
A tragic accident leads to Oscar living with his grandfather at Sunny Days Retirement Community and it has been a wonderful home full of more “grandparents” than a 12 year old could hope for. He is completely invested in activities at the senior center, can play a mean card game, is president of the garden club and has attended and walked residents through many funerals, but nothing has prepared him for 104 year old Jimmy Deluca and the adventure to come. Circumstances have put Oscar and Pops in a precarious situation requiring an immediate influx of money or the duo will have to leave their home. Enter Jimmy who needs to get out of Sunny Days for some unknown purpose but he is a flight risk and wears a device that sounds if he so much as steps outside the building. The two concoct a mutually beneficial plan, interrupted by new twelve year old resident Natasha, and all three load up into Jimmy’s 1953 Kaiser Dragon for a tour of various places in the senior’s life.
Gemeinhart blends hilarious car chases, a hairless cat, some seedy locations, heartfelt revelations and a trip to prison in a way that will have readers laughing, wondering and feeling a few heart tugs. The characters and action are so well-developed and engaging that the almost ridiculous escapades of the trio will feel entirely plausible. Some may be bothered by some incidents of theft, minors in a bar on the wrong side of town, plus a few other not so admirable activities but as a pearl of wisdom to Oscar from a Sunny Acres resident says, right and wrong can get confusing…so do the good thing. Other “pearls” are dropped along the way and provide some thinking moments for readers and could result in writing prompts for teachers who read Busted aloud or give to a literature circle. Pithy thoughts such as “Listen to your tummy,” “squeeze the orange,” and “Being good is something you quacking choose” are sprinkled liberally throughout will have to read in context to fully grasp, but expect some laughter to accompany some of them, especially when the word “quacking” is explained and used often in place of other, less acceptable, words!
Highly recommended for grades 5-8 with text being free of profanity (unless you count the substitutionary quack/quacking) and there is no sexual content. There is a black eye, a lost tooth, some angry chase scenes with ill intent on the part of the chasers, etc. but all are part of the adventure and should not set off any alarm bells. Busted would pair nicely with other middle grade works with a senior center and multi-generational relationships as the setting such Gordon Korman’s Old School, Not Nothing by Gayle Forman and Vrabel’s Reckless Club.
Thanks for the eARC, NetGalley.
A tragic accident leads to Oscar living with his grandfather at Sunny Days Retirement Community and it has been a wonderful home full of more “grandparents” than a 12 year old could hope for. He is completely invested in activities at the senior center, can play a mean card game, is president of the garden club and has attended and walked residents through many funerals, but nothing has prepared him for 104 year old Jimmy Deluca and the adventure to come. Circumstances have put Oscar and Pops in a precarious situation requiring an immediate influx of money or the duo will have to leave their home. Enter Jimmy who needs to get out of Sunny Days for some unknown purpose but he is a flight risk and wears a device that sounds if he so much as steps outside the building. The two concoct a mutually beneficial plan, interrupted by new twelve year old resident Natasha, and all three load up into Jimmy’s 1953 Kaiser Dragon for a tour of various places in the senior’s life.
Gemeinhart blends hilarious car chases, a hairless cat, some seedy locations, heartfelt revelations and a trip to prison in a way that will have readers laughing, wondering and feeling a few heart tugs. The characters and action are so well-developed and engaging that the almost ridiculous escapades of the trio will feel entirely plausible. Some may be bothered by some incidents of theft, minors in a bar on the wrong side of town, plus a few other not so admirable activities but as a pearl of wisdom to Oscar from a Sunny Acres resident says, right and wrong can get confusing…so do the good thing. Other “pearls” are dropped along the way and provide some thinking moments for readers and could result in writing prompts for teachers who read Busted aloud or give to a literature circle. Pithy thoughts such as “Listen to your tummy,” “squeeze the orange,” and “Being good is something you quacking choose” are sprinkled liberally throughout will have to read in context to fully grasp, but expect some laughter to accompany some of them, especially when the word “quacking” is explained and used often in place of other, less acceptable, words!
Highly recommended for grades 5-8 with text being free of profanity (unless you count the substitutionary quack/quacking) and there is no sexual content. There is a black eye, a lost tooth, some angry chase scenes with ill intent on the part of the chasers, etc. but all are part of the adventure and should not set off any alarm bells. Busted would pair nicely with other middle grade works with a senior center and multi-generational relationships as the setting such Gordon Korman’s Old School, Not Nothing by Gayle Forman and Vrabel’s Reckless Club.
Thanks for the eARC, NetGalley.
October 9, 2025
When a boy and his grandfather are in danger of being evicted, he makes a deal with a shady character in the hopes that it will help him save the only home he’s ever known. Instead what happens is a rollicking day that leaves him wondering whether getting evicted might have actually been the easier choice. Author Dan Gemeinhart puts his characters in reasonably challenging situations without ever letting them swim in bottomless waters in the funny, heartfelt Busted.
Oscar Aberdeen is a hit with all the residents of Sunny Days retirement home in his New Jersey hometown, and why wouldn’t he be? He’s always happy to act as handyman when someone needs it, he’s the vice president and main social event planner of several clubs, and he’s a mean hand at bridge. He’s also only 12 years old, but for Oscar that’s neither here nor there. Despite the fact that he’s attend more than four dozen funerals in his life, he’s perfectly happy at Sunny Days.
That is until the current owner dies and his son swoops in and starts making big changes, starting with their rent. Thanks to the new owner of Sunny Days, Oscar and his grandpa are being priced right out of their small apartment in the facility. If they don’t figure out how to get some more money soon and on a regular basis, they’ll be left without a home.
Then Oscar has a conversation with the new resident, Jimmy Deluca, that may give him a chance. Never mind that everyone else in Sunny Days thinks Jimmy is a former mobster and that he can’t be trusted. Oscar loves his grandpa and will do absolutely anything for him, including doing a favor for Jimmy.
Because that’s the deal Jimmy offers: he wants a favor. If he can do it, Oscar will get enough money to help him and his grandfather stay in Sunny Days permanently. Easy peasy, right? Except the favor is that Jimmy wants to leave Sunny Days for the day. For most residents this wouldn’t be a problem, but Jimmy is on a special list that restricts him from leaving the retirement home.
He makes it clear to Oscar, though: getting out of Sunny Days is nonnegotiable for Oscar to get the money. With every instinct screaming that this is a bad idea, Oscar agrees. Because he also has a nonnegotiable: he has to take care of his grandpa.
Against all the common sense that all his adoptive Sunny Days grandparents and his own grandfather have instilled in him, Oscar agrees to the escape. At the last minute someone else from Sunny Days stows away, and the three end up on an adventure that just might leave Oscar with a permanent stomachache. It might also give him a new perspective on life and even a new friend.
Author Dan Gemeinhart writes in a breezy tone that offers a baseline of “all will be well” and balances that with enough intrigue and adventure that readers will spend time worrying about Oscar’s capers in the best way possible. Gemeinhart is clearly comfortable with his target audience and offers the best representation of current middle grade readers in supporting character Natasha. Her quick wit and ease around Oscar and Jimmy will make readers laugh out loud. Natasha easily gets the best lines in the book, and it’s apparent how much fun Gemeinhart had in writing her.
As a main character, Oscar is likeable and sweet. His patience with all the senior citizens in Sunny Days who see him as a surrogate grandson is more than just service to the plot; Oscar’s love and respect for these elderly friends feel real and authentic. Gemeinhart chooses to have Oscar talk like the boomer generation he lives with, which at times can be endearing and at other times feels forced into the conversation. The author may have wanted to pull back on a few of the “humdinger” uses along with some of the other slang terms from generations past.
Road trip stories are less common for the middle grade set, which makes this book even more fun. The ending feels inevitable, but Gemeinhart manages to hold back a small surprise or two. Those who want a light, breezy book with heart should definitely check this out.
Oscar Aberdeen is a hit with all the residents of Sunny Days retirement home in his New Jersey hometown, and why wouldn’t he be? He’s always happy to act as handyman when someone needs it, he’s the vice president and main social event planner of several clubs, and he’s a mean hand at bridge. He’s also only 12 years old, but for Oscar that’s neither here nor there. Despite the fact that he’s attend more than four dozen funerals in his life, he’s perfectly happy at Sunny Days.
That is until the current owner dies and his son swoops in and starts making big changes, starting with their rent. Thanks to the new owner of Sunny Days, Oscar and his grandpa are being priced right out of their small apartment in the facility. If they don’t figure out how to get some more money soon and on a regular basis, they’ll be left without a home.
Then Oscar has a conversation with the new resident, Jimmy Deluca, that may give him a chance. Never mind that everyone else in Sunny Days thinks Jimmy is a former mobster and that he can’t be trusted. Oscar loves his grandpa and will do absolutely anything for him, including doing a favor for Jimmy.
Because that’s the deal Jimmy offers: he wants a favor. If he can do it, Oscar will get enough money to help him and his grandfather stay in Sunny Days permanently. Easy peasy, right? Except the favor is that Jimmy wants to leave Sunny Days for the day. For most residents this wouldn’t be a problem, but Jimmy is on a special list that restricts him from leaving the retirement home.
He makes it clear to Oscar, though: getting out of Sunny Days is nonnegotiable for Oscar to get the money. With every instinct screaming that this is a bad idea, Oscar agrees. Because he also has a nonnegotiable: he has to take care of his grandpa.
Against all the common sense that all his adoptive Sunny Days grandparents and his own grandfather have instilled in him, Oscar agrees to the escape. At the last minute someone else from Sunny Days stows away, and the three end up on an adventure that just might leave Oscar with a permanent stomachache. It might also give him a new perspective on life and even a new friend.
Author Dan Gemeinhart writes in a breezy tone that offers a baseline of “all will be well” and balances that with enough intrigue and adventure that readers will spend time worrying about Oscar’s capers in the best way possible. Gemeinhart is clearly comfortable with his target audience and offers the best representation of current middle grade readers in supporting character Natasha. Her quick wit and ease around Oscar and Jimmy will make readers laugh out loud. Natasha easily gets the best lines in the book, and it’s apparent how much fun Gemeinhart had in writing her.
As a main character, Oscar is likeable and sweet. His patience with all the senior citizens in Sunny Days who see him as a surrogate grandson is more than just service to the plot; Oscar’s love and respect for these elderly friends feel real and authentic. Gemeinhart chooses to have Oscar talk like the boomer generation he lives with, which at times can be endearing and at other times feels forced into the conversation. The author may have wanted to pull back on a few of the “humdinger” uses along with some of the other slang terms from generations past.
Road trip stories are less common for the middle grade set, which makes this book even more fun. The ending feels inevitable, but Gemeinhart manages to hold back a small surprise or two. Those who want a light, breezy book with heart should definitely check this out.
July 24, 2025
Oscar Aberdeen is no average kid. For example, has lived with his 75 year old grandfather, Pops, at the Sunny Days Retirement Community in New Jersey ever since the death of both of his parents. Odd upbringing still, It's been a good life; Oscar is involved at the old folks home as chair of the party planning committee, he gives many eulogies, adores the music of Frank Sinatra, and he knows how to dress for special occasions in a suit, dress shoes, and cufflinks.
But things change when the owner of the rest home dies and his son takes over. Along with him is his granddaughter, Natasha. She logically explains why her grandfather had to raise the rent. But it increased so much that the two will have to leave and find another place to live. You see, the home is running out of money since rents were never raised, and her father is hoping to turn the business around by getting tenants who can pay more.
A ray of hope gleams when new resident Jimmy DeLuca, a rumored ex-mobster, has a proposition for Oscar that might enable him and Pops to stay at Sunny Days. Jimmy wants out of the rest home and says he can give Oscar enough cash so they can live there indefinitely if he can help. He says it’s all legal. But you see, Jimmy is 104 and on oxygen. And, he'll be driving his own baby blue Kaiser Dragon on this adventure that includes a trip to New Jersey. Using his knowledge of the facility and routines of the staff Oscar in desperation, agrees to break Jimmy out. But not before spunky Natasha says she wants in on the adventure or she’ll alert the authorities. Along for the ride is Jimmy's hairless cat, Mr. Buttercup, who has taken to Natasha. The breakout is just the start of Jimmy's "bucket list"including a fantastic dinner at an Italian restaurant, picking up a $300 cigar, where Oscar gets punched, hence the black eye on the cover, a trip to apologize to Thumbs, who is in prison, and that is just the beginning of this hilarious and zany adventure.
What is not funny is when Oscar notices Jimmy's oxygen tank is almost empty, but surprisingly, Jimmy is not concerned. After an all points bulletin is issued for the trio’s whereabouts, the police are closing in, and the day is concluding with bitter sweetness.
This is just a fantastic read. The characters, a crotchety old guy, a young boy who acts like an old guy, a dare devil precocious girl and of course the ever present hairless cat, buttercup all come together making an adventure that rivals Thelma and Louise. The pacing of each bucket list quest keeps readers clamoring for the next one.
Kids and senior citizens coming together are humorous and heartwarming. I love reading adventures and escapades, when they unite.
Gemeinhart has penned yet another wonderful novel.
But things change when the owner of the rest home dies and his son takes over. Along with him is his granddaughter, Natasha. She logically explains why her grandfather had to raise the rent. But it increased so much that the two will have to leave and find another place to live. You see, the home is running out of money since rents were never raised, and her father is hoping to turn the business around by getting tenants who can pay more.
A ray of hope gleams when new resident Jimmy DeLuca, a rumored ex-mobster, has a proposition for Oscar that might enable him and Pops to stay at Sunny Days. Jimmy wants out of the rest home and says he can give Oscar enough cash so they can live there indefinitely if he can help. He says it’s all legal. But you see, Jimmy is 104 and on oxygen. And, he'll be driving his own baby blue Kaiser Dragon on this adventure that includes a trip to New Jersey. Using his knowledge of the facility and routines of the staff Oscar in desperation, agrees to break Jimmy out. But not before spunky Natasha says she wants in on the adventure or she’ll alert the authorities. Along for the ride is Jimmy's hairless cat, Mr. Buttercup, who has taken to Natasha. The breakout is just the start of Jimmy's "bucket list"including a fantastic dinner at an Italian restaurant, picking up a $300 cigar, where Oscar gets punched, hence the black eye on the cover, a trip to apologize to Thumbs, who is in prison, and that is just the beginning of this hilarious and zany adventure.
What is not funny is when Oscar notices Jimmy's oxygen tank is almost empty, but surprisingly, Jimmy is not concerned. After an all points bulletin is issued for the trio’s whereabouts, the police are closing in, and the day is concluding with bitter sweetness.
This is just a fantastic read. The characters, a crotchety old guy, a young boy who acts like an old guy, a dare devil precocious girl and of course the ever present hairless cat, buttercup all come together making an adventure that rivals Thelma and Louise. The pacing of each bucket list quest keeps readers clamoring for the next one.
Kids and senior citizens coming together are humorous and heartwarming. I love reading adventures and escapades, when they unite.
Gemeinhart has penned yet another wonderful novel.
September 16, 2025
Dan Gemeinhart's latest novel 'Busted' features his signature deep themes wrapped up in a rollicking vintage - and hilarious - ride: literally. What could possibly go wrong when an elderly tweenager, a centenarian mobster, bikini-clad teen, and a hairless cat set out to cross every item off a bucket list?
The premise of this story sets up both sides of the plot: a tween who will do anything to save the room in the retirement community where he lives with his grandfather. What sets up jokes better than a twelve-year-old growing up surrounded by dentures and digestive issues? At the same time, it's this very scenario that lays the foundation for the timeless wisdom that this same kid shares.
'Busted' is going to be the next Gemeinhart classic in the vein of 'The Honest Truth,' and I'm there for that, with one exception: the language. The elderly mobster in the story has a potty mouth, and while none of his words make the page, it's very clear exactly which words he's using. Main character Oscar, who tells the story, shares his strategy for mentally bleeping out these words, which is a great one. I would have loved it if, at that point, the author would have just let their usage fall away. The mobster's character would be clear, as is Oscar's, with a great plan for kids to use if they so choose. Instead, these words continue to fill each page. As this book is written for middle-grade students, perhaps many are already familiar with them; but do we need to reinforce this negative language in their minds, even with editing strategies in place? The story would be much stronger without the influence of this language - and we as people would be better if we could vary our vocabulary without them. Our kids deserve the opportunity to learn how to elevate their language and improve their ways of expression - not to sink to the lowest common denominator.
Without these language issues, I'd be giving this book a rating of six stars out of four. Because of this, however, I strongly encourage adults to consider their students carefully before sharing this story. I personally would treat it as a Junie B. Jones book: as a book with fantastic content to be used as a read aloud, where I could just skip the problematic swear words so we can focus on discussing the themes together.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
The premise of this story sets up both sides of the plot: a tween who will do anything to save the room in the retirement community where he lives with his grandfather. What sets up jokes better than a twelve-year-old growing up surrounded by dentures and digestive issues? At the same time, it's this very scenario that lays the foundation for the timeless wisdom that this same kid shares.
'Busted' is going to be the next Gemeinhart classic in the vein of 'The Honest Truth,' and I'm there for that, with one exception: the language. The elderly mobster in the story has a potty mouth, and while none of his words make the page, it's very clear exactly which words he's using. Main character Oscar, who tells the story, shares his strategy for mentally bleeping out these words, which is a great one. I would have loved it if, at that point, the author would have just let their usage fall away. The mobster's character would be clear, as is Oscar's, with a great plan for kids to use if they so choose. Instead, these words continue to fill each page. As this book is written for middle-grade students, perhaps many are already familiar with them; but do we need to reinforce this negative language in their minds, even with editing strategies in place? The story would be much stronger without the influence of this language - and we as people would be better if we could vary our vocabulary without them. Our kids deserve the opportunity to learn how to elevate their language and improve their ways of expression - not to sink to the lowest common denominator.
Without these language issues, I'd be giving this book a rating of six stars out of four. Because of this, however, I strongly encourage adults to consider their students carefully before sharing this story. I personally would treat it as a Junie B. Jones book: as a book with fantastic content to be used as a read aloud, where I could just skip the problematic swear words so we can focus on discussing the themes together.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
November 30, 2025
4.5/5 stars
Quick Take: Intergenerational friendship + road trip + heartfelt (non-corny) life lessons = another hit from the author of Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise.
Blurb: Oscar Aberdeen lives with his grandfather in the Sunny Days retirement community, but they are about to be evicted if they can't come up with a bucket of cash quickly. Oscar makes a deal with shady fellow resident Jimmy DeLuca, who promises him a share of his fortune if Oscar helps him break out. Oscar, Jimmy, another kid with a connection to the retirement community, and Jimmy's hairless cat end up on a wild adventure that pushes Oscar outside his comfort zone.
Mood Reader Guide: middle grade / road trip / found family / rebel elderly character / straightlaced kid / secrets / Italian food / poker / quirky / bittersweet ending
Thoughts:
- what a great twist on the intergenerational friendship, because 12 year old Oscar is the rule follower, and the 80 something Jimmy is the troublemaker
- I genuinely laughed out loud at a bunch of different lines. The characters are just funny and have great interactions. Oscar replacing every swear word Jimmy uses with "quacking" made me snort
- Each of the main characters has some secrets that readers discover along the way; each brings up some bigger topics for the characters to handle (and for young readers to perhaps be introduced to)
- The story is just great - it's an equal mix of madcap hijinks and serious real life stuff.
How It Ends:
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Jimmy tricks Oscar (and the daughter of the owner of the retirement community, Natasha) to end up spending way more time away from Sunny Days than they anticipated (like a whole day and night). Jimmy is doing his bucket list of stuff because he knows he's about to die. Oscar's secret is that his dad isn't dead; he's in jail because he provided the drugs that Oscar's mom used when she died of an overdose when he was a baby. Natasha is bald, she went through cancer treatments and now she's fine. At the end of the movie, Jimmy passes away peacefully watching the sunrise at the beach. Jimmy hid his fortune and is able to leave it for Oscar, so Oscar and his grandpa could stay at Sunny Days.
Quick Take: Intergenerational friendship + road trip + heartfelt (non-corny) life lessons = another hit from the author of Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise.
Blurb: Oscar Aberdeen lives with his grandfather in the Sunny Days retirement community, but they are about to be evicted if they can't come up with a bucket of cash quickly. Oscar makes a deal with shady fellow resident Jimmy DeLuca, who promises him a share of his fortune if Oscar helps him break out. Oscar, Jimmy, another kid with a connection to the retirement community, and Jimmy's hairless cat end up on a wild adventure that pushes Oscar outside his comfort zone.
Mood Reader Guide: middle grade / road trip / found family / rebel elderly character / straightlaced kid / secrets / Italian food / poker / quirky / bittersweet ending
Thoughts:
- what a great twist on the intergenerational friendship, because 12 year old Oscar is the rule follower, and the 80 something Jimmy is the troublemaker
- I genuinely laughed out loud at a bunch of different lines. The characters are just funny and have great interactions. Oscar replacing every swear word Jimmy uses with "quacking" made me snort
- Each of the main characters has some secrets that readers discover along the way; each brings up some bigger topics for the characters to handle (and for young readers to perhaps be introduced to)
- The story is just great - it's an equal mix of madcap hijinks and serious real life stuff.
How It Ends:
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Jimmy tricks Oscar (and the daughter of the owner of the retirement community, Natasha) to end up spending way more time away from Sunny Days than they anticipated (like a whole day and night). Jimmy is doing his bucket list of stuff because he knows he's about to die. Oscar's secret is that his dad isn't dead; he's in jail because he provided the drugs that Oscar's mom used when she died of an overdose when he was a baby. Natasha is bald, she went through cancer treatments and now she's fine. At the end of the movie, Jimmy passes away peacefully watching the sunrise at the beach. Jimmy hid his fortune and is able to leave it for Oscar, so Oscar and his grandpa could stay at Sunny Days.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2025
✨Book Review✨
‼️😳BUSTED 😳‼️
Synopsis:
💰Oscar Aberdeen is a rule-following oddball. He lives with his grandpa, which makes him the youngest resident of Sunny Days retirement home. When his grandpa suddenly receives an eviction notice, Oscar makes a deal with Jimmy Deluca, a shady elderly man with a bad reputation, to make some fast cash. This odd duo, along with an uninvited stowaway, and a hairless cat keep you on the edge of your seat as you follow along on their wild adventures!
My Thoughts:
🤔I laughed out loud. I cried. This book is packed with humor and heart. It is a joyride full of friendship and adventure.
🤔The character development is so well-done. These characters will be sticking with me for a long time. The plot and themes are also so good!
🤔I’ve read several of Dan Gemeinhart’s books, and this one seemed more edgy with lying, stealing, blackmail, mobsters, etc.
🤔One thing that is preventing me from recommending this to young readers is the volume of references to foul language throughout the entire book. I get it. It totally makes the character who uses foul language, and I will grant that most of the swear words are substituted with “quack” or “quacking,” but there are a lot of references to mostly the “F” word throughout the book. So, I would recommend this to older middle grade/teen readers. I highly suggest adults carefully consider which child/student they recommend this book to.
Who is going to love it? Older middle grade/teen readers who love…
❤️…adventure.
❤️…unconventional family dynamics.
❤️…quirky characters.
😊Thank you to Macmillan Children’s Publising Group/Henry Holt and Co. @henryholtbooks and @NetGalley for the gifted ebook ARC in exchange for an honest review.
‼️😳BUSTED 😳‼️
Synopsis:
💰Oscar Aberdeen is a rule-following oddball. He lives with his grandpa, which makes him the youngest resident of Sunny Days retirement home. When his grandpa suddenly receives an eviction notice, Oscar makes a deal with Jimmy Deluca, a shady elderly man with a bad reputation, to make some fast cash. This odd duo, along with an uninvited stowaway, and a hairless cat keep you on the edge of your seat as you follow along on their wild adventures!
My Thoughts:
🤔I laughed out loud. I cried. This book is packed with humor and heart. It is a joyride full of friendship and adventure.
🤔The character development is so well-done. These characters will be sticking with me for a long time. The plot and themes are also so good!
🤔I’ve read several of Dan Gemeinhart’s books, and this one seemed more edgy with lying, stealing, blackmail, mobsters, etc.
🤔One thing that is preventing me from recommending this to young readers is the volume of references to foul language throughout the entire book. I get it. It totally makes the character who uses foul language, and I will grant that most of the swear words are substituted with “quack” or “quacking,” but there are a lot of references to mostly the “F” word throughout the book. So, I would recommend this to older middle grade/teen readers. I highly suggest adults carefully consider which child/student they recommend this book to.
Who is going to love it? Older middle grade/teen readers who love…
❤️…adventure.
❤️…unconventional family dynamics.
❤️…quirky characters.
😊Thank you to Macmillan Children’s Publising Group/Henry Holt and Co. @henryholtbooks and @NetGalley for the gifted ebook ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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