A review by bookbeforeuleap
Frank and Red by Matt Coyne

emotional
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

This is a story about an unlikely friendship between a grumpy old man and a young boy who find solace and support in each other's company. It is quick to get into and will quickly steal your heart. It tackles quite a few serious topics including agoraphobia, suicidal thoughts, grief, bullying, divorce and family issues respectfully and the balance of humour to emotional depth was a perfect balance. I did a combination of physically reading and listening to this one and James Killeen narration really added to the magic of the story.

I absolutely loved this one, it is no secret that I love a tale with an intergenerational storyline and this did not disappoint and I have no doubt it will be in my top reads of 2024. Both Frank and Red's voices felt so authentic and I loved following both their narratives, Reds POV hit especially hard as I have a five year old boy at home and I could truly hear him coming out with the same logic, it made me smile and cry (the speech Red gives 😭😭😭) and I was fully invested in the outcomes of all characters involved. 

Fans of heart-warming and uplifting reads with an intergenerational friendship (think A man called Ove, Eudora Honeysett is quiet well & 100 Years of Lenni and Margot) will love this one!
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