Frank and Red

Frank and Red by Matt Coyne
2/1/24; 448 pages
Wildfire 

Frank and Red by Matt Coyne is a heartwarming, very highly recommended domestic drama telling the story of an unlikely friendship between a grumpy old man and a six-year-old boy. Not only is this novel charming and funny, it also needs a tears-will-fall alert.

Frank is an old curmudgeon who hasn't left his house for two years after his beloved wife Marcie passed away. Now he talks to her ghost while being estranged from his son and friends. When six-year-old Red moves next door with his mother Frank's life of silence is over. It starts with the repetitious, creaking noise of the trampoline springs which is quickly followed by Red's voice as he looks over the fence at Frank, looking to make a new friend. 

This is the start of a friendship that will ultimately benefit both. At first it seems unlikely that Frank will ever accept a rambunctious Red, but circumstances begin to show how much the two actually need each other no matter how much Frank fights it. Frank is both grieving and agoraphobic. At first, Red is dealing with the separation of his parents and a father who is indifferent, but then contends with a new school, and a bully. Their relationship grows organically, especially when Frank is the only one Red can really talk to and Marcie's presence is keeping Frank in line.

Both Frank and Red are realistic, believable characters. Frank is often living in his past memories of his life with Marcie and son Michael. The ghost/presence of Marcie isn't creepy because it is clearly Frank knowing what she would say if still alive - and his mind wants her to still be there. Red is an intelligent, active boy who needs an adult he can tell his problems to without stressing out his mom. There is an event that will cause you to panic, but as expected the novel ends on a perfect note.