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Frank and Red
Estranged from his friends, son, and the ever-changing world beyond his front gate, Frank is a reclusive curmudgeon whose only company is the 'ghost' of his dead wife, Marcie. Then six-year-old Red moves in next door. A boy struggling to adjust to the separation of his mum and dad, a new school, and the demonic school bully, Red is curious, smart, and talkative. And he has a trampoline. From the moment Red's blonde mop appears over the top of the fence that divides their two gardens, the unlikeliest of friendships is born.
448 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,206 reviews
September 4, 2025
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The Book Review Crew Blog
It was the most irritated and happy he had ever been. Funny how kids could make you feel both at the same time.
This book was everything I love about reading. It was sad, funny, engaging and had a wonderful cast of characters. I know it's only March but this will be on my top books of 2024, for sure. The book's chapters alternate between showing Frank's point of view and Red's point of view and I loved getting to know the innermost thoughts of these special guys.
Frank and Red are new neighbours and complete opposites. Frank is a widowed older man who likes to keep himself to himself. Red is a six-year-old boy who is chatty and excitable. When Red moves in next door to Frank their worlds collide in a most extraordinary way and both Frank and Red learn you are never too old or too young to make new friends or need your community.
This was such a roller coaster ride of emotions and it was such a joy to be on that ride with Frank and Red. As their friendship grows the two friends learn a lot about each other and themselves. This is the type of book you hug when you're finished. I have read some reviews stating that the book reminded the reader of A Man Called Ove and I get that, BUT Coyne makes this uniquely his own and lovers of Ove will definitely enjoy this as well. I can't believe this is Matt Coyne's debut novel. All. The. Stars.
The Book Review Crew Blog
It was the most irritated and happy he had ever been. Funny how kids could make you feel both at the same time.
This book was everything I love about reading. It was sad, funny, engaging and had a wonderful cast of characters. I know it's only March but this will be on my top books of 2024, for sure. The book's chapters alternate between showing Frank's point of view and Red's point of view and I loved getting to know the innermost thoughts of these special guys.
Frank and Red are new neighbours and complete opposites. Frank is a widowed older man who likes to keep himself to himself. Red is a six-year-old boy who is chatty and excitable. When Red moves in next door to Frank their worlds collide in a most extraordinary way and both Frank and Red learn you are never too old or too young to make new friends or need your community.
This was such a roller coaster ride of emotions and it was such a joy to be on that ride with Frank and Red. As their friendship grows the two friends learn a lot about each other and themselves. This is the type of book you hug when you're finished. I have read some reviews stating that the book reminded the reader of A Man Called Ove and I get that, BUT Coyne makes this uniquely his own and lovers of Ove will definitely enjoy this as well. I can't believe this is Matt Coyne's debut novel. All. The. Stars.
November 28, 2023
“The meeting of two personalities is like the contact of two chemical substances: if there is any reaction, both are transformed.”
The most unlikely of friendships, but somehow, two people who are decades apart in age, are thrown together by circumstance and what follows warms the heart to see just how the relationship develops.
Six year old Red has had to leave the only life he’s ever known after his mum and dad separated. So he’s in a new home with his mum, miles away from his friends, and he doesn’t see much of his dad anymore either since he met Tits and Teeth (well that’s what his mum and auntie call dad’s girlfriend when they think he’s not listening).
He hates the new house, it’s tiny compared to his old house, he hates his new school, none of the kids speak to him, excluding him at playtime, and one boy in particular is a real bully. It’s no better at home, no one to play with, and then there’s Frank, the grumpy old man next door who’s really mean.
The only good thing about home for Red is the trampoline - not so for Frank however, from the minute he sees the blonde head jumping above the fence he senses trouble, and that’s not to mention the darned squeaking noise that accompanies the face appearing every second, especially as Red insists on talking to him and constantly firing questions at him.
It’s fair to say that things get off on the wrong foot - both Frank and Red are lonely, though Frank isn’t interested in anyone or anything any more, he’s become reclusive and doesn’t leave home since his wife Marcie died, he’s even fallen out with his son Mikey. He talks to Marcie constantly when she appears, but isn’t sure if she’s really there or whether it’s a figment of his imagination. Anyway, he doesn’t want a nosey little brat bothering him that’s for sure!
It was an absolute joy to see how this unlikely relationship blossoms. It was an emotional journey, but was peppered with lots of humour along the way and I loved it. Definitely recommended!
*Thank you to Netgalley and Headline, Wildfire for my ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
The most unlikely of friendships, but somehow, two people who are decades apart in age, are thrown together by circumstance and what follows warms the heart to see just how the relationship develops.
Six year old Red has had to leave the only life he’s ever known after his mum and dad separated. So he’s in a new home with his mum, miles away from his friends, and he doesn’t see much of his dad anymore either since he met Tits and Teeth (well that’s what his mum and auntie call dad’s girlfriend when they think he’s not listening).
He hates the new house, it’s tiny compared to his old house, he hates his new school, none of the kids speak to him, excluding him at playtime, and one boy in particular is a real bully. It’s no better at home, no one to play with, and then there’s Frank, the grumpy old man next door who’s really mean.
The only good thing about home for Red is the trampoline - not so for Frank however, from the minute he sees the blonde head jumping above the fence he senses trouble, and that’s not to mention the darned squeaking noise that accompanies the face appearing every second, especially as Red insists on talking to him and constantly firing questions at him.
It’s fair to say that things get off on the wrong foot - both Frank and Red are lonely, though Frank isn’t interested in anyone or anything any more, he’s become reclusive and doesn’t leave home since his wife Marcie died, he’s even fallen out with his son Mikey. He talks to Marcie constantly when she appears, but isn’t sure if she’s really there or whether it’s a figment of his imagination. Anyway, he doesn’t want a nosey little brat bothering him that’s for sure!
It was an absolute joy to see how this unlikely relationship blossoms. It was an emotional journey, but was peppered with lots of humour along the way and I loved it. Definitely recommended!
*Thank you to Netgalley and Headline, Wildfire for my ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
April 10, 2024
In a Nutshell: A heartwarming story of the bond between an old man and a little boy. Loveable characters, a straightforward yet unusual plot, and some touching themes. A compelling debut to be read with the heart!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
Bookish Yays:
🌷 Frank: Grumpy, adamant, obnoxious from the outside. But once you get to know him, you realise how that coconutty exterior hides a heart of gold. His love for his late wife shines through in almost every scene.
🌷 Red: Imaginative, mischievous, precocious, born with no filters in his mouth or mind. Red is an adorable child whose innocence and incessant talking turn this story into a winner.
🌷 The connection between Frank and Red is so beautiful! Usually, such books show how only the senior character needs help and how the child character brings light in their lives. But the bond between Frank and Red works on a mutually beneficial basis. Both of them have sadness in their past as well as their present. Their relationship is organic and it’s nice to see how each one helps the other.
🌷 While the basic plotline is straightforward and fairly guessable (as this genre is supposed to be!) I like how the author added the unexpected to the predictable. For instance, Red isn’t an introvert but he is still struggling to make friends in school – I found this so realistic! (It’s not only introverts or socially awkward children who struggle in new environments!) Frank’s wife has passes away but he still sees her around and has conversations with her – is that her ghost or just his imagination? There are many such plot elements that make this story special.
🌷 Some of the secondary characters are interesting as well. Chief among these are Marcie and Susan, Red’s mom. I love how the women in the story have strong roles despite the plot essentially belonging to Frank and Red.
🌷 There are some great themes tackled in the book, and none of these seem extraneous. (In other words, no “kitchen sink dumping” of themes in this debut!) I especially loved the portrayal of the impact of divorce/separation on children, the struggle to deal with the death of a loved one, and the difficulty of apologising to a loved one after a rift. The book also handles the found family trope well.
🌷 There are several humorous scenes that actually made me laugh. Most of these are thanks to Red, and the repartee between him and his “very old” friend Frank.
🌷 Most fictional “grumpy old men” cannot escape being compared to Ove. Frank will remind you of Ove, that’s for sure. With his churlish behaviour, his reclusiveness, his annoyance when neighbours come barging in, and his never-ending love for his late wife, Frank and Ove have a lot in common. So if you love Ove, you will certainly love Frank. That said, the two stories have enough of individuality, so this won’t feel like a déjà vu version of Backman’s work.
Bookish Mixed Bags:
🌹 The adults in Red’s life have no major qualms using bad language in front of him, and as a result, his vocabulary often breaks the age barrier, not necessarily in a good way. Frank also cusses too frequently, with some curses in God’s name. While the language simply depicts the characters’ tendencies and is true to life, I wish the cussing could have been a tad toned down. It is even more jarring to hear on audio, and might annoy some readers.
Bookish Nays:
🌵 The final resolution of the bullying issue faced by Red is too smooth to be believable. No real-life bully changes colours that quickly. This part was too simplistic.
🎧 The Audiobook Experience:
The audiobook, clocking at 10 hrs 35 min, is narrated by James Killeen. I don’t know why, but it took me some time to get into his performance. He’s not bad, but something was missing in the initial chapters. As the book progressed, his narration grew on me. He was great at voicing Red and his exaggerated reactions. The narrative perspective alternates between the two characters all the way till the end, but this never gets confusing on audio. So, no regrets reading the audio, but a tiny part of me feels like I would have enjoyed this even better had I read it.
Overall, I enjoyed this lovely story with two endearing characters. Frank helps Red as much as Red helps Frank, and that makes this book extra special.
This is author Matt Coyne’s first fictional novel. He is known for his parenting blog and social media profile 'Man vs Baby'. He has earlier penned two nonfiction books based on his parenting adventures. I hope he writes more fiction, because I’d definitely love to read more such stories.
Strongly recommended to all readers looking for a story with a heart, written for your heart.
4.5 stars.
My thanks to HighBridge Audio and NetGalley for the ALC of “Frank and Red”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
Frank is a curmudgeon who lives alone in his house, estranged from family and friends after the death of his wife Marcie two years back. He is a recluse and can’t stand anyone or anything tampering with his routine. Little does he know that his peaceful life is soon to be turned upside down by a new neighbour.
After his parents’ separation, six-year-old Red, along with his mother, has moved into the house next to Frank’s. He isn’t happy with the house nor with his new school. The only good thing about the house is that his mother has bought a new trampoline for the back garden.
Being a curious chatterbox, Red is eager to make friends. And who better than the old man next door who seems sad and lonely? As Red trampolines his way into Frank’s life, the old man tries his best to avoid the nuisance. But can a determined six-year-old be stopped?
The story comes to us in the alternate third-person perspectives of Frank and Red.
Bookish Yays:
🌷 Frank: Grumpy, adamant, obnoxious from the outside. But once you get to know him, you realise how that coconutty exterior hides a heart of gold. His love for his late wife shines through in almost every scene.
🌷 Red: Imaginative, mischievous, precocious, born with no filters in his mouth or mind. Red is an adorable child whose innocence and incessant talking turn this story into a winner.
🌷 The connection between Frank and Red is so beautiful! Usually, such books show how only the senior character needs help and how the child character brings light in their lives. But the bond between Frank and Red works on a mutually beneficial basis. Both of them have sadness in their past as well as their present. Their relationship is organic and it’s nice to see how each one helps the other.
🌷 While the basic plotline is straightforward and fairly guessable (as this genre is supposed to be!) I like how the author added the unexpected to the predictable. For instance, Red isn’t an introvert but he is still struggling to make friends in school – I found this so realistic! (It’s not only introverts or socially awkward children who struggle in new environments!) Frank’s wife has passes away but he still sees her around and has conversations with her – is that her ghost or just his imagination? There are many such plot elements that make this story special.
🌷 Some of the secondary characters are interesting as well. Chief among these are Marcie and Susan, Red’s mom. I love how the women in the story have strong roles despite the plot essentially belonging to Frank and Red.
🌷 There are some great themes tackled in the book, and none of these seem extraneous. (In other words, no “kitchen sink dumping” of themes in this debut!) I especially loved the portrayal of the impact of divorce/separation on children, the struggle to deal with the death of a loved one, and the difficulty of apologising to a loved one after a rift. The book also handles the found family trope well.
🌷 There are several humorous scenes that actually made me laugh. Most of these are thanks to Red, and the repartee between him and his “very old” friend Frank.
🌷 Most fictional “grumpy old men” cannot escape being compared to Ove. Frank will remind you of Ove, that’s for sure. With his churlish behaviour, his reclusiveness, his annoyance when neighbours come barging in, and his never-ending love for his late wife, Frank and Ove have a lot in common. So if you love Ove, you will certainly love Frank. That said, the two stories have enough of individuality, so this won’t feel like a déjà vu version of Backman’s work.
Bookish Mixed Bags:
🌹 The adults in Red’s life have no major qualms using bad language in front of him, and as a result, his vocabulary often breaks the age barrier, not necessarily in a good way. Frank also cusses too frequently, with some curses in God’s name. While the language simply depicts the characters’ tendencies and is true to life, I wish the cussing could have been a tad toned down. It is even more jarring to hear on audio, and might annoy some readers.
Bookish Nays:
🌵 The final resolution of the bullying issue faced by Red is too smooth to be believable. No real-life bully changes colours that quickly. This part was too simplistic.
🎧 The Audiobook Experience:
The audiobook, clocking at 10 hrs 35 min, is narrated by James Killeen. I don’t know why, but it took me some time to get into his performance. He’s not bad, but something was missing in the initial chapters. As the book progressed, his narration grew on me. He was great at voicing Red and his exaggerated reactions. The narrative perspective alternates between the two characters all the way till the end, but this never gets confusing on audio. So, no regrets reading the audio, but a tiny part of me feels like I would have enjoyed this even better had I read it.
Overall, I enjoyed this lovely story with two endearing characters. Frank helps Red as much as Red helps Frank, and that makes this book extra special.
This is author Matt Coyne’s first fictional novel. He is known for his parenting blog and social media profile 'Man vs Baby'. He has earlier penned two nonfiction books based on his parenting adventures. I hope he writes more fiction, because I’d definitely love to read more such stories.
Strongly recommended to all readers looking for a story with a heart, written for your heart.
4.5 stars.
My thanks to HighBridge Audio and NetGalley for the ALC of “Frank and Red”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
December 5, 2023
4-5 stars rounded up
What a debut from Matt Coyne!
Frank is a curmudgeonly loner since the death of his wife, Marcie, whose ghost does her best to cheer him along or put him straight on a few things. His house and garden are now neglected and he’s turned his back on the world. Then Red and his mum Sarah move in next door. Red, which is not his real name as he’ll inform you, is six. He’s had to leave the security of his old home which he loves, his school and his best friend, when his parents marriage fell apart after his dad left for another woman. I’ll leave her description to Sarah as she sums her up so well. To say Red is a curious child doesn’t do him justice, his questions and thoughts defy description. Will Frank and Red be friends, or will Frank continue to turn his back on the friendly overtures?
Oh Red, Red! I fall in love with you as soon as I meet you on these pages. He’s a glorious child, creative, inquisitive, he asks baffling questions, his liveliness, his rhinoceros hide when it comes to Frank are all just a sheer delight. What a creation Matt Coyne!! His wonderful malapropisms from his childhood innocence are a joy to behold! He makes me hoot with laughter on more than one occasion and when he comes up against the class bully in his new school, I want to hug him and shake the bully. You really feel for him joining a new class, he’s an outsider and his loneliness at this point breaks your heart.
What of Frank? Yes, at times, he’s a pain in the proverbial as he’s so grumpy yet he’s also funny in his own unique way. The poor fella is deep in grief for the loss of his beloved wife and the unfairness of that which he feels it in every fibre of his body. His sadness seeps off the pages. Yet he is brought back to life in this fabulous story of an unlikely friendship.
It’s a terrific, emotional read, it’s moving and sad and my eyes do fill with tears on a couple of occasions but it’s peppered with delicious humour and definitely leaves me with a daft smile on my face! Despite the issues that the book deals with, it’s a wonderful and joyful book. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Headline, Wildfire for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
What a debut from Matt Coyne!
Frank is a curmudgeonly loner since the death of his wife, Marcie, whose ghost does her best to cheer him along or put him straight on a few things. His house and garden are now neglected and he’s turned his back on the world. Then Red and his mum Sarah move in next door. Red, which is not his real name as he’ll inform you, is six. He’s had to leave the security of his old home which he loves, his school and his best friend, when his parents marriage fell apart after his dad left for another woman. I’ll leave her description to Sarah as she sums her up so well. To say Red is a curious child doesn’t do him justice, his questions and thoughts defy description. Will Frank and Red be friends, or will Frank continue to turn his back on the friendly overtures?
Oh Red, Red! I fall in love with you as soon as I meet you on these pages. He’s a glorious child, creative, inquisitive, he asks baffling questions, his liveliness, his rhinoceros hide when it comes to Frank are all just a sheer delight. What a creation Matt Coyne!! His wonderful malapropisms from his childhood innocence are a joy to behold! He makes me hoot with laughter on more than one occasion and when he comes up against the class bully in his new school, I want to hug him and shake the bully. You really feel for him joining a new class, he’s an outsider and his loneliness at this point breaks your heart.
What of Frank? Yes, at times, he’s a pain in the proverbial as he’s so grumpy yet he’s also funny in his own unique way. The poor fella is deep in grief for the loss of his beloved wife and the unfairness of that which he feels it in every fibre of his body. His sadness seeps off the pages. Yet he is brought back to life in this fabulous story of an unlikely friendship.
It’s a terrific, emotional read, it’s moving and sad and my eyes do fill with tears on a couple of occasions but it’s peppered with delicious humour and definitely leaves me with a daft smile on my face! Despite the issues that the book deals with, it’s a wonderful and joyful book. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Headline, Wildfire for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
February 26, 2024
the setup…
Frank Hayes lives a very lonely and solitary life, never leaving his home since the death of his beloved wife Marcie who “visits” him regularly. He’s estranged from his only son, Michael, with no hope of reunion. Then his new neighbors move in. How does he know? Because the six-year old boy everyone calls Red begins jumping on his new (and noisy) trampoline. When Red discovers Frank sitting outside his back yard, he’s determined to become friends. Frank is equally committed to not going there but is no match for this bright and engaging child who, despite struggling with his parents’ divorce, a new school and a new home, doesn’t give up.
the heart of the story…
If you’ve read the book about Ove, this might sound familiar and indeed it does read like him initially. But soon the distinctions arise and Frank is a completely different character. He’s not only grieving the death of his wife but is depressed and agoraphobic. The “presence” of his wife is all that saves him and keeps him alive. But the heart of this story is Red. In addition to all the change he’s undergone, Red is having to cope with a bully at his new school who makes sure he has no friends. Frank is the only one he can talk to about this and that sets off a series of actions that lands him in Frank’s care for a week.
the narration…
I really enjoyed the narrator who had the tough task of giving voice to a child who is one of the main characters. He gave Red all the heart, personality and charm, endearing him to me from the onset. He was a wonderful storyteller, too.
the bottom line…
There’s so much depth to this story, full of humor, heartache, hope and despair. Red is a precocious child without being overly so, his naivety combined with his smarts producing the most charming mix. But it’s his relationship with Frank that’s the most captivating. It’s honest, authentic and cathartic for both. This is truly a diamond in the proverbial rough and if you can treat yourself to the audio version, be prepared to get lost in this magical story.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Frank Hayes lives a very lonely and solitary life, never leaving his home since the death of his beloved wife Marcie who “visits” him regularly. He’s estranged from his only son, Michael, with no hope of reunion. Then his new neighbors move in. How does he know? Because the six-year old boy everyone calls Red begins jumping on his new (and noisy) trampoline. When Red discovers Frank sitting outside his back yard, he’s determined to become friends. Frank is equally committed to not going there but is no match for this bright and engaging child who, despite struggling with his parents’ divorce, a new school and a new home, doesn’t give up.
the heart of the story…
If you’ve read the book about Ove, this might sound familiar and indeed it does read like him initially. But soon the distinctions arise and Frank is a completely different character. He’s not only grieving the death of his wife but is depressed and agoraphobic. The “presence” of his wife is all that saves him and keeps him alive. But the heart of this story is Red. In addition to all the change he’s undergone, Red is having to cope with a bully at his new school who makes sure he has no friends. Frank is the only one he can talk to about this and that sets off a series of actions that lands him in Frank’s care for a week.
the narration…
I really enjoyed the narrator who had the tough task of giving voice to a child who is one of the main characters. He gave Red all the heart, personality and charm, endearing him to me from the onset. He was a wonderful storyteller, too.
the bottom line…
There’s so much depth to this story, full of humor, heartache, hope and despair. Red is a precocious child without being overly so, his naivety combined with his smarts producing the most charming mix. But it’s his relationship with Frank that’s the most captivating. It’s honest, authentic and cathartic for both. This is truly a diamond in the proverbial rough and if you can treat yourself to the audio version, be prepared to get lost in this magical story.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
May 6, 2024
It’s really hard to write genuine children, and non-stereotypical elders, and Matt does it with real genius. The relationship between Frank and Red is utterly heartwarming, without being at all soppy, and it’s properly laugh-out-loud funny. I ADORED IT.
dnf
June 27, 2024A lovely, heartwarming story which, for the life of me, I could not get into.
January 8, 2024
Is it too early to start talking about books of the year? Because this one is most definitely a contender.
Frank is a grumpy old man. He hasn't left his house since his wife died two years ago. Incidentally, her "ghost" is also the only company he has, though they have the most brilliant conversations. Frank is estranged from everyone, including his own son. His garden looks more like a jungle, the outside world causes panic attacks but at least inside the safety of his home things are safe and quiet. Until six year old Red and his mum move in next door.
It is impossible not to fall in love with these characters from the very first page. That is especially true of Red. His enthusiasm is infectious, his imagination inspiring and he's often incredibly funny. Sometimes without meaning to. I adored him right away, although I also acknowledged that in real life he probably would have annoyed the crap out of me. As he does with Frank when they first meet. Red just will not stop talking and is immensely curious. But he is also incredibly smart and quickly realises Frank is sad. And possibly in need of a friend.
Sometimes you come across a book that is just perfect from start to finish. Even the cover fits Frank & Red like a glove. This story took me on such a rollercoaster of emotions. One minute I was laughing out loud, the next I found myself nearly reaching for a tissue. Obviously an unlikely friendship is born, and yes, that does sound awfully familiar. While there is a certain level of predictability, it's not one that bothered me. Quite the opposite, it's one I was hoping for. And through it all, the character of Red steals the show on every page he appears.
Matt Coyne tackles the issues both Frank and Red deal with immense empathy. Frank is quite clearly dealing with loss and grief, a life without his wife, grown-up stuff. While Red has to come to terms with an entirely new life as well; parents who are no longer together, a new house, a new school and a bully. I really liked how these "little kid" problems were never belittled in comparison to what Frank was going through.
There is such warmth throughout this story. It's like a hug on a cold winter's night. 'Frank & Red' is moving and funny, uplifting and full of hope. Frank and Red are relatable and believable characters, who will pull you in from the very beginning. It's a delightfully heartwarming story and a truly wonderful debut from Matt Coyne. It's one of those novels where I feel my review doesn't do it any justice at all, but suffice to say that I absolutely loved it!
Frank is a grumpy old man. He hasn't left his house since his wife died two years ago. Incidentally, her "ghost" is also the only company he has, though they have the most brilliant conversations. Frank is estranged from everyone, including his own son. His garden looks more like a jungle, the outside world causes panic attacks but at least inside the safety of his home things are safe and quiet. Until six year old Red and his mum move in next door.
It is impossible not to fall in love with these characters from the very first page. That is especially true of Red. His enthusiasm is infectious, his imagination inspiring and he's often incredibly funny. Sometimes without meaning to. I adored him right away, although I also acknowledged that in real life he probably would have annoyed the crap out of me. As he does with Frank when they first meet. Red just will not stop talking and is immensely curious. But he is also incredibly smart and quickly realises Frank is sad. And possibly in need of a friend.
Sometimes you come across a book that is just perfect from start to finish. Even the cover fits Frank & Red like a glove. This story took me on such a rollercoaster of emotions. One minute I was laughing out loud, the next I found myself nearly reaching for a tissue. Obviously an unlikely friendship is born, and yes, that does sound awfully familiar. While there is a certain level of predictability, it's not one that bothered me. Quite the opposite, it's one I was hoping for. And through it all, the character of Red steals the show on every page he appears.
Matt Coyne tackles the issues both Frank and Red deal with immense empathy. Frank is quite clearly dealing with loss and grief, a life without his wife, grown-up stuff. While Red has to come to terms with an entirely new life as well; parents who are no longer together, a new house, a new school and a bully. I really liked how these "little kid" problems were never belittled in comparison to what Frank was going through.
There is such warmth throughout this story. It's like a hug on a cold winter's night. 'Frank & Red' is moving and funny, uplifting and full of hope. Frank and Red are relatable and believable characters, who will pull you in from the very beginning. It's a delightfully heartwarming story and a truly wonderful debut from Matt Coyne. It's one of those novels where I feel my review doesn't do it any justice at all, but suffice to say that I absolutely loved it!
March 15, 2024
This is the story of a grumpy old man, Frank, and an annoying, inquisitive but adorable little boy, Red. The grumpy old person seems to be a popular theme lately. I've read a few of them and they're all a bit different but I usually finish them feeling good.
Both Frank and Red are trying to come to terms with a bad turn in their life. Because he's grumpy, Frank does not welcome Red into his life. Because he's adorable, Red keeps pushing himself into Frank's life.
The story is full of cuteness overload. As a six year old, Red is smart beyond his years. And Frank is grumpier than any grown man should be. But, I knew what it would be like this before I started it. It's refreshing to watch the friendship develop, mostly due to Red's persistence.
The book brings out emotions in the reader and when it gets a bit too heavy, there is comic relief. I couldn't help smiling at things that Red said and did.
Right now there are tons of dystopian novels, psychological thrillers, bizarre fantasy stories and war stories. This is a refreshing change of pace!
A quick and entertaining read. The whole book made me happy. And, so did Red!
Both Frank and Red are trying to come to terms with a bad turn in their life. Because he's grumpy, Frank does not welcome Red into his life. Because he's adorable, Red keeps pushing himself into Frank's life.
The story is full of cuteness overload. As a six year old, Red is smart beyond his years. And Frank is grumpier than any grown man should be. But, I knew what it would be like this before I started it. It's refreshing to watch the friendship develop, mostly due to Red's persistence.
The book brings out emotions in the reader and when it gets a bit too heavy, there is comic relief. I couldn't help smiling at things that Red said and did.
Right now there are tons of dystopian novels, psychological thrillers, bizarre fantasy stories and war stories. This is a refreshing change of pace!
A quick and entertaining read. The whole book made me happy. And, so did Red!
March 22, 2024
Yes, five stars! This is a wonderful book, which has everything, and I didn't want it to end.
The characters are lovely, and I was swept up in their lives, and also had real empathy for them. The author made me believe that a six year old was speaking, and the narrator brought everyone to life.
Fans of A Man Called Ove will love this book.
The characters are lovely, and I was swept up in their lives, and also had real empathy for them. The author made me believe that a six year old was speaking, and the narrator brought everyone to life.
Fans of A Man Called Ove will love this book.
October 16, 2024
3⭐️
Sweet and predictable story. For me Red did not come across as a 6 year old! It felt like an adult trying to write like a 6 yr old and not getting it right 😬
Still, an easy read.
Sweet and predictable story. For me Red did not come across as a 6 year old! It felt like an adult trying to write like a 6 yr old and not getting it right 😬
Still, an easy read.
August 1, 2025
Be still my Up-Lit loving heart. This is the sweetest, most heartwarming story. I can’t resist the grumpy old man/little boy duo and this will be one of my faves of the year. It’s also funny as hell- I laughed out loud multiple times.
August 26, 2025
Prepare to fall in love with a grumpy lonely old man and a lonely confused little boy! Frank and Red will steal your heart as they become firm if unlikely friends.
Beautiful!
Beautiful!
May 17, 2024
(4.5) las historias de viejos malhumorados siempre serán mi debilidad…
January 8, 2024
When six year old Red moves in next door to Frank, Frank could not be more annoyed. After his wife died, Frank has become a Victor Meldrew type grump, who hasn't set foot beyond his garden gate for almost two years. Then along comes Red with his squeaky trampoline, his incessant questioning of Frank over the garden fence and his silly drawings dropping through his letterbox. Against Frank's better judgement, Frank and Red are unexpectedly thrown together for a week and whilst they are clearly initially being tolerant of one another, an unlikely friendship is born.
Frank and Red is hilariously funny - I've even written a line down in my notebook that was so brilliant that I didn't want to forget it! Matt Coyne's characters, from elderly grump to smart six year old, are superbly crafted. Even just writing this review has me with a smile on my face!
In Frank and Red, there are also tales as old as time - from the single parent trying to juggle work, school and parenting, to the family differences left to fester and grow into something beyond what it ever needed to be. It's a riotous, laugh out loud adventure, but also packed full of emotion and if you don't cry then I'll be damned.
An absolute gem of a book, loved every second!
Frank and Red is hilariously funny - I've even written a line down in my notebook that was so brilliant that I didn't want to forget it! Matt Coyne's characters, from elderly grump to smart six year old, are superbly crafted. Even just writing this review has me with a smile on my face!
In Frank and Red, there are also tales as old as time - from the single parent trying to juggle work, school and parenting, to the family differences left to fester and grow into something beyond what it ever needed to be. It's a riotous, laugh out loud adventure, but also packed full of emotion and if you don't cry then I'll be damned.
An absolute gem of a book, loved every second!
January 19, 2024
For fans of A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman.
Almost verbatim, we have a grumpy old man who hates everyone and everything after his wife dies from cancer. He is only bullied into doing any good by the ghost of his wife.
Red is a six-year old boy who moves next door who is overly curious and kind but faces bullying at school and an absent divorced father.
Similar to Ove, Fred is not likeable and I struggled to get over all his disagreements. Rude, short-fused, nasty, a raging drunk. Yet, you do feel sorry for his situation as you learn of his past and the absolute love and devotion he had to his wife, and then of course his grief.
Red adds such a realistic child narrative. Yes, some parts were unbelievable for a six year old, but mostly it was written to be extremely fun and entertaining with random tangents that you would expect a child to make.
Sadly, he faces bullying and he’s trying to make sense of his place, displaced from his home, family structure, and school.
The interactions between the two were, of course, amusing.
”I spy with my little eye something beginning with L.”
“Is it the last dying embers of my will live?” Frank replied.
“Nope,” said Red, delighted that Frank was apparently now fully involved. “Guess again.”
Also, shout out to Red’s mum who is struggling balancing a new job, a nasty divorce, a young child, and no support system. She is a force to be reckoned with and so, so funny.
To start with, this felt like a bit of a copy from Backman’s work. However, as the book progressed, this definitely differed from A Man Called Ove, and I have to say, I found myself enjoying this a lot more.
Maybe it was the audiobook narrator. Red’s inclusion was definitely a part of it.
What a fantastic debut! Full of heart, this was a sweet read with some funny moments and endearing impressions.
Thank you to Headline Audio for an audiobook arc in exchange for a review.
Bookstagram
Almost verbatim, we have a grumpy old man who hates everyone and everything after his wife dies from cancer. He is only bullied into doing any good by the ghost of his wife.
Red is a six-year old boy who moves next door who is overly curious and kind but faces bullying at school and an absent divorced father.
Similar to Ove, Fred is not likeable and I struggled to get over all his disagreements. Rude, short-fused, nasty, a raging drunk. Yet, you do feel sorry for his situation as you learn of his past and the absolute love and devotion he had to his wife, and then of course his grief.
Red adds such a realistic child narrative. Yes, some parts were unbelievable for a six year old, but mostly it was written to be extremely fun and entertaining with random tangents that you would expect a child to make.
Sadly, he faces bullying and he’s trying to make sense of his place, displaced from his home, family structure, and school.
The interactions between the two were, of course, amusing.
”I spy with my little eye something beginning with L.”
“Is it the last dying embers of my will live?” Frank replied.
“Nope,” said Red, delighted that Frank was apparently now fully involved. “Guess again.”
Also, shout out to Red’s mum who is struggling balancing a new job, a nasty divorce, a young child, and no support system. She is a force to be reckoned with and so, so funny.
To start with, this felt like a bit of a copy from Backman’s work. However, as the book progressed, this definitely differed from A Man Called Ove, and I have to say, I found myself enjoying this a lot more.
Maybe it was the audiobook narrator. Red’s inclusion was definitely a part of it.
What a fantastic debut! Full of heart, this was a sweet read with some funny moments and endearing impressions.
Thank you to Headline Audio for an audiobook arc in exchange for a review.
Bookstagram
January 26, 2024
Listened to this on audio - loved the narration.
I wasn't expecting this book to be so funny? It's HILARIOUS.
I was expecting it to be a little too soppy/quaint/twee - again I was wrong as it hit the balance just right. The ending was a tiny bit predictable but didn't detract from the overall story.
My only gripes:
1. Bit annoyed that the cover illustration makes it look like a middle grade book when the topics covered are clearly adult. Also in the story Red stands on an ‘upturned wheelbarrow’ so make the cover accurate pls 😭
2. When Red says Bulbasaur evolves into Venosaur - the SCREAM I SCREMT
Can't wait to see what Matt Coyne comes out with next
4 stars
I wasn't expecting this book to be so funny? It's HILARIOUS.
I was expecting it to be a little too soppy/quaint/twee - again I was wrong as it hit the balance just right. The ending was a tiny bit predictable but didn't detract from the overall story.
My only gripes:
1. Bit annoyed that the cover illustration makes it look like a middle grade book when the topics covered are clearly adult. Also in the story Red stands on an ‘upturned wheelbarrow’ so make the cover accurate pls 😭
2. When Red says Bulbasaur evolves into Venosaur - the SCREAM I SCREMT
Can't wait to see what Matt Coyne comes out with next
4 stars
May 22, 2024
It was a cute read but it doesn’t hold a candle to A Man Called Ove
December 16, 2024
At its beginning, this is a sad, poignant story transformed into a heartwarming tale of hope. It involves a most unlikely friendship that develops between Frank, a morose, grouchy, reclusive man in his 60s, and Red, an exuberant, inquisitive 6-year-old boy.
The grief-stricken Frank refuses to leave the isolation of his house. He has become estranged from his former friends and his son Matthew ever since his wife died two years earlier. He suffers from panic attacks when he imagines going outside his gate. In his loneliness, he constantly has conversations with the ghost of his late wife. He realizes she is not real and is probably a manifestation of his conscience. She offers advice for improving his life, which he ignores and becomes more grumpy. His backyard is now neglected and overgrown with weeds.
Red has recently moved next door with his now single mother. He is a chatterbox and unhappy with the move to the new neighbourhood. Red is inquisitive and always asks a tangent of random questions. He misses his former home, school, best friend, and father. His father has remained behind with his new girlfriend (Tits and Teeth) and her two daughters, who are not friendly. His father makes promises to take Red to fun places on weekends but breaks his word at the last minute. His newly single mother is a fierce protector and a force to be reckoned with. He is nervous about starting a new school and doesn't express his unhappiness with his mother or he might upset her.
Red's mother has bought him a trampoline. He bounces excitedly on it while making loud noises. He can be heard and seen by the cranky Frank. Much to Fred's chagrin, Red climbs over the fence into Frank's yard. Red has started school, is ignored and is not included in his classmates' games. A bigger boy bullies him. When Red tries to start conversations, Frank usually replies with a monosyllable or grunt. When Red tells Frank about the bullying, Frank says to stop acting like a 'mouse,' confront the bully, and retaliate. Red swings his fist at the bully and misses, breaking the fish tank and his arm. The school punishes him for this incident by expelling him from school for a week.
Red's mother is concerned because she cannot take the week off from her new job. She orders Frank to look after Red for the week as the expulsion from school is mainly his fault. She intimidates Frank into reluctantly accepting. Red draws Frank into playing games with him and snoops through the house when bored. He learns about Frank's separation from his son while looking through drawers and the waste basket. Frank refuses to make peace with Matthew. The bright, optimistic Red plans a series of subway stops to Matthew's home. His trip does not go well because of schedule changes in transport that day. Red becomes hopelessly lost. Does he complete his mission by locating Frank's son and persuading him to reconcile with his father? The ending is a warm, emotional one.
The grief-stricken Frank refuses to leave the isolation of his house. He has become estranged from his former friends and his son Matthew ever since his wife died two years earlier. He suffers from panic attacks when he imagines going outside his gate. In his loneliness, he constantly has conversations with the ghost of his late wife. He realizes she is not real and is probably a manifestation of his conscience. She offers advice for improving his life, which he ignores and becomes more grumpy. His backyard is now neglected and overgrown with weeds.
Red has recently moved next door with his now single mother. He is a chatterbox and unhappy with the move to the new neighbourhood. Red is inquisitive and always asks a tangent of random questions. He misses his former home, school, best friend, and father. His father has remained behind with his new girlfriend (Tits and Teeth) and her two daughters, who are not friendly. His father makes promises to take Red to fun places on weekends but breaks his word at the last minute. His newly single mother is a fierce protector and a force to be reckoned with. He is nervous about starting a new school and doesn't express his unhappiness with his mother or he might upset her.
Red's mother has bought him a trampoline. He bounces excitedly on it while making loud noises. He can be heard and seen by the cranky Frank. Much to Fred's chagrin, Red climbs over the fence into Frank's yard. Red has started school, is ignored and is not included in his classmates' games. A bigger boy bullies him. When Red tries to start conversations, Frank usually replies with a monosyllable or grunt. When Red tells Frank about the bullying, Frank says to stop acting like a 'mouse,' confront the bully, and retaliate. Red swings his fist at the bully and misses, breaking the fish tank and his arm. The school punishes him for this incident by expelling him from school for a week.
Red's mother is concerned because she cannot take the week off from her new job. She orders Frank to look after Red for the week as the expulsion from school is mainly his fault. She intimidates Frank into reluctantly accepting. Red draws Frank into playing games with him and snoops through the house when bored. He learns about Frank's separation from his son while looking through drawers and the waste basket. Frank refuses to make peace with Matthew. The bright, optimistic Red plans a series of subway stops to Matthew's home. His trip does not go well because of schedule changes in transport that day. Red becomes hopelessly lost. Does he complete his mission by locating Frank's son and persuading him to reconcile with his father? The ending is a warm, emotional one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 8, 2024
I wish Frank and Red were my neighbors!!
What a sweet, outstanding book. Take one old ornery man, add one chatty six year old who only wants a friend, and you have the makings of a fantastic story. Oh, and the narration was stellar!!
What a sweet, outstanding book. Take one old ornery man, add one chatty six year old who only wants a friend, and you have the makings of a fantastic story. Oh, and the narration was stellar!!
January 24, 2025
5 🌟
This book was exactly what I needed, heartwarming and uplifting. Instantly fell in love with Red and Frank. If you're looking for lovable characters and a cute story, look no further, read this book!
This book was exactly what I needed, heartwarming and uplifting. Instantly fell in love with Red and Frank. If you're looking for lovable characters and a cute story, look no further, read this book!
October 27, 2024
The writing didn’t work for me. I tried. Wanted to love the book but sadly… no.
September 5, 2025
I’m not crying,you’re crying!
This one will stay with me for a while.
This one will stay with me for a while.
October 9, 2023
'Frank and Red' is an assured debut novel of an unlikely friendship across generations.
Frank is a surly widower who wants to be left alone by everyone, but is accompanied by the ghost of his dead wife Marnie. Red is the 6 year old who has moved next door with his mum when they had to leave his childhood home on the other side of London.
Frank doesn't want to have anything to do with anyone, let alone a chatty inquisitive 6 year old, but Red is persistent and optimistic, drawing pictures for Frank and inviting him to join him at various occasions. Slowly, Frank has to come to terms with the loss of Marnie and the fallout that this caused in his wider circle whilst Red has to learn to navigate new friendships as well as bullies at his new primary school. The burgeoning friendship between the two of them is so tenderly written, and with great humour; both of them learn more than they ever thought from the other one. I loved Marnie's character too, she treated Frank with such love and tenderness whilst steering him in the right direction, and constantly reminding him that he shouldn't shut himself off from everything forever.
I have been following Matt Coyne's parenting blog for a while so I was keen to see how his writing would translate into a longer story. He has written a great book; 'Frank and Red' is a fantastic debut which is light-hearted without being slapstick and still packs an emotional punch. There were parts of the story that had me welling up and a page or so later, I was laughing out loud or wanting to shake Frank in frustration.
4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
Frank is a surly widower who wants to be left alone by everyone, but is accompanied by the ghost of his dead wife Marnie. Red is the 6 year old who has moved next door with his mum when they had to leave his childhood home on the other side of London.
Frank doesn't want to have anything to do with anyone, let alone a chatty inquisitive 6 year old, but Red is persistent and optimistic, drawing pictures for Frank and inviting him to join him at various occasions. Slowly, Frank has to come to terms with the loss of Marnie and the fallout that this caused in his wider circle whilst Red has to learn to navigate new friendships as well as bullies at his new primary school. The burgeoning friendship between the two of them is so tenderly written, and with great humour; both of them learn more than they ever thought from the other one. I loved Marnie's character too, she treated Frank with such love and tenderness whilst steering him in the right direction, and constantly reminding him that he shouldn't shut himself off from everything forever.
I have been following Matt Coyne's parenting blog for a while so I was keen to see how his writing would translate into a longer story. He has written a great book; 'Frank and Red' is a fantastic debut which is light-hearted without being slapstick and still packs an emotional punch. There were parts of the story that had me welling up and a page or so later, I was laughing out loud or wanting to shake Frank in frustration.
4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
June 26, 2024
Let me tell you... I can't remember the last time I connected to a set of characters so quickly. 25 pages into the book I was tearing up and it hit me right in the feels. Frank and Red are the most wholesome characters in very different ways and their relationship becomes so heart-warming.
This story follows the unlikely friendship between Frank, who has recently lost his wife and is grappling with grief, and Red, who has had to move after his parents split up, who begin talking over the fence. Frank begrudgingly entertains Red's chaotic theories and questions and the two unknowingly help each other through their struggles.
I laughed, I cried and felt all the fuzzy feels!
This story follows the unlikely friendship between Frank, who has recently lost his wife and is grappling with grief, and Red, who has had to move after his parents split up, who begin talking over the fence. Frank begrudgingly entertains Red's chaotic theories and questions and the two unknowingly help each other through their struggles.
I laughed, I cried and felt all the fuzzy feels!
December 22, 2024
The older character in this mawkish and deeply implausible tale of clichéd characters is a writer whose book was described as ‘sentimental and trite’. As is this nonsense. I have no idea why it is so highly rated on Goodreads. There's a few amusing lines, but that can't be it, surely?
May 27, 2024
Was reminiscent of A Man Called Ove - same gentle older generational story. Was a good easy read but somehow missed some of Ove’s nuance. Great for traveling or a holiday read.
January 27, 2025
A heartwarming story about loneliness and friendship with lovely characters.
January 30, 2024
Finished reading: January 29th 2024
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Wildfire in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
July 8, 2025
A solid 4.5
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