Who among us does not have book boyfriends? (Hello, Mr. Darcy!) Just this week, I’m totally crushing on Frank Banning, a nine-year-old genius with a vivid imagination, a prodigious memory and a unique sartorial flair. He’s the star of Julia Claiborne Johnson’s sparkly first novel, Be Frank with Me (Morrow, digital galley), which is as quirky-adorable as its cast of characters.
In addition to Frank, we have his mother Mimi, a reclusive LA novelist who lost the fortune she made off her famous first book in a Madoff-type investment scam and is now struggling to finish her long-delayed second book. Her New York publisher sends help in the person of his cheery young assistant Alice, who isn’t put off by Mimi’s rudeness or Frank’s eccentricities. As soon as she figures out the rules — don’t touch Frank, don’t touch Frank’s things — Alice gets on pretty well, tuning into Frank’s fascination with old Hollywood movies, his complete disregard for personal space and his endless curiosity. Not that there aren’t bumps — Frank can be as exasperating as he is endearing, and fourth grade is a particular challenge. Alice is curious, as well. Who is Frank’s father? What’s the deal with Frank’s handsome piano teacher Xander who wanders in and out of the Bannings’ lives? And will Mimi’s endless typing behind closed doors ever result in a book?
I just loved this book. Be Frank with Me is witty and sweet, a real valentine.
On a Clear Day I Can Read Forever 
Sounds like a fun one, indeed!
Sounds good! I added it to my list.
Laurie, Kate et al, Thanks for stopping by and commenting. It’s a fun book.