The Scarecrow and His Servant by Philip Pullman

The Scarecrow and His Servant by Philip Pullman - 229 pages

One night a lightning strike animates a scarecrow.  The next morning a young boy, Jack, become the servant of Lord Scarecrow and they set off to make their fortune.  They have various adventures including facing brigands, acting in a play, leading a battle, and becoming castaways on a deserted island.  All while being chased by the lawyers of the family trying to make certain Lord Scarecrow never claims his inheritance.

I listened to this on audio.  It took a really long time for me to get into the story.  I don't think it was until the fourth and final CD that I really cared what happened to either Jack or the Scarecrow.  What mainly bothered me was how whiny Jack was.  He was always on the brink of starving to death even though he had only missed maybe one or two meals the entire story.

Jack the Castaway by Lisa Doan

Jack the Castaway by Lisa Doan - 144 pages
The Berenson Schemes #1

Jack is dismayed to discover that his parents intend to take him on their next get rich quick scheme to the Caribbean where they plan to start a snorkeling business.  Jack is sure that somehow he will end up dead on this adventure - whether from whale sharks, pirates, or just his parents' neglect.  He had no idea that he would actually end up as a castaway on a deserted island though - all due to his parents lack of planning.
This is the first book in a new series.  I personally found Jack to be a bit annoying.  Yes, his parents are neglectful, easily distracted, and have no clue on how to raise a kid.  But even when they eventually come around as you know they will he continues to bad mouth them and disparage them at every opportunity.  However, I think kids will see it as the ultimate boy knows best story.