The same week our fowls were stolen, Daphne Moran had her throat cut.' Neddy Poindexter's sister, Prudence, has turned sixteen and is the prettiest girl in Klynham. Neddy can't protect her from the men in town, but can he protect her from the killer on the loose? Part boys' own adventure story, part small - town comedy and part horrifying thriller, The Scarecrow is of its own kind, an unexpected and irresistible masterpiece. 'One of the most unusual and original novels published in this country for many a long day.' Sydney Morning Herald