THE YEAR OF THE SHINING CUCKOO

This comical glimpse of the country people Down Under may be overlooked due to the unfortunate title and poorly designed jacket. But, having passed these barriers, a third is to be found-- small, crowded print. The plethora of characters may only confuse, but the picture of Garrance, an old maid who finally leaves on her honeymoon, giving careful last minute instructions about her potted plants, and of Ermyntrude, a carnival bareback rider-- who leaves the show to become Grandfather's housekeeper, are among the outstanding. Johnnie Douglas (the grandson) wants only to own a horse, and he does so after hard labor and some help. The writing ranges from stereotyped descriptions to sharp wise cracks and comic elaboration.