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Original Fake
In this Banksy-inspired illustrated novel, an escalating sibling rivalry train wrecks and vengeance is a street-art act of war
Introvert Frankie Neumann hates his life, and understandably so. He’s got a weird, tutu-wearing sister, Lou, and even weirder parents, Bridget and Brett—Frank Sinatra and Dr. Frank-N-Furter impersonators, respectively. And, he’s just the guy who makes pizza at Pizza Vendetta. Though he has secret artistic aspirations of his own, his over-the-top family makes him want to stay in the background. But Frankie's life is about to change—becoming way more interesting, even a little dangerous, but definitely cool.
After his shift at the pizzeria one night, Frankie meets David and Rory, cousins and errand runners for the mysterious Uncle Epic, a legendary anonymous street artist and Frankie’s absolute idol. Little could Frankie dream that his new adventures with Uncle Epic would lead to the perfect opportunity to strike back at his insufferable sister for a lifetime of torture. But things go haywire quicker than you can say “street art kicks righteous ass,” and the lines are suddenly blurred between art and Frankie’s real life.
Introvert Frankie Neumann hates his life, and understandably so. He’s got a weird, tutu-wearing sister, Lou, and even weirder parents, Bridget and Brett—Frank Sinatra and Dr. Frank-N-Furter impersonators, respectively. And, he’s just the guy who makes pizza at Pizza Vendetta. Though he has secret artistic aspirations of his own, his over-the-top family makes him want to stay in the background. But Frankie's life is about to change—becoming way more interesting, even a little dangerous, but definitely cool.
After his shift at the pizzeria one night, Frankie meets David and Rory, cousins and errand runners for the mysterious Uncle Epic, a legendary anonymous street artist and Frankie’s absolute idol. Little could Frankie dream that his new adventures with Uncle Epic would lead to the perfect opportunity to strike back at his insufferable sister for a lifetime of torture. But things go haywire quicker than you can say “street art kicks righteous ass,” and the lines are suddenly blurred between art and Frankie’s real life.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published April 19, 2016
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785 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
January 15, 2023
"Epic is making penises, and we're covering them with fake money that has Andy Warhol in a feather boa on them. Then what?"
Welcome to the world of street art!
Our protagonist Frankie is a fan. He thinks that it's a meaningful tool to show the world how toxic it is (he's not really wrong) and wants to become a famous (street) artist himself. He just needs to find the right idea and some self confidence, because at the beginning of the story, his trademark art is pretty much adding monsters to old landscape paintings (which I think is actually pretty awesome)... and maybe creating pictures with the toppings on the pizzas at work.
I thought Frankie was a painfully accurate depiction of a teenager. As an adult (and a former "boring good kid") I cringed while reading about him not giving a shit about the (really very few) rules his parents set up for him, him not calling home when he stayed outside way past his curfew or being led around by his dick by a certain cute girl... but I couldn't really find any fault in the writing there, cause many teenagers are kind of trainwrecks and Frankie was a pretty harmless one most of the time.
I also really related to him when it came to his feelings about his younger sister. I know what it feels like to think that your parents love your sibling more. It might be irrational, but there is always this nagging feeling and when you get more and more (perceived) evidence over the years and keep swallowing your feelings down... you just become estranged from your family and then probably explode one day. I thought that part of the story was pretty powerfully written. I actually cried for Frankie a few times, because while his sister wasn't a bad person, she definitely seemed to be pretty thoughtless.
Which brings me right to her. I don't know what I felt about Lou. I think my perception of her was colored a lot by Frankie's POV and my own experience. I might have felt more for her, if the story had been from her perspective. The thing is, I can't say that she didn't deserve at least part of what she got.
Then there are Rory and David, the niece and nephew of Epic, the street artist Frankie adores. I thought they were both pretty unique characters. Rory because while she technically has the role of the love interest, doesn't really act like one. She knows what she wants and she knows how to get it. Frankie never quite knows if she truly likes him or if she's just manipulating him to get what she wants and while the reader cottons on quite a bit sooner than the protagonist, it was still a guessing game for most of the book.
Meanwhile it's David (apparently one of those incredibly lucky people whose tighs don't chafe when they rub together when wearing skirts - I envy him) who feels much more like the true love interest - from the awkward meeting, to the tentiative friendship, to trust and ultimately to close confidante. It was probably my favorite relationship of the story and I think that I want to pretend that they got together some point after the story.
I also always appreciate some art inside a book about artsy people. It makes them stand out.
So basically I liked it. The reason why I only gave this one 3 stars is because while I understood why Frankie acted the way he did towards his parents, Rory, and people who didn't "get" Epic's street art or art in general, it was still pretty tedious to read about.
I also thought the conclusion to the side plot of a flash mob in the grocery store was pretty weak and not believeable at all (in fact, it probably should have gotten them into even more trouble).
It was also pretty repetitive. Rory and David need his delivery truck for mission for Epic, Frankie misses his curfew by like 6 hours, his parents are pissed, he thinks it's worth it, stares at Rory in Spanish class, judges non-artsy people, does something with David, hates on his sister, works at the pizza place, Rory and David stroll in and need his delivery truck for a mission for Epic... and rinse and repeat.
Nevertheless, I would totally read a sequel if it was about Frankie's and David's adventures (where they never miss their curfew).
Welcome to the world of street art!
Our protagonist Frankie is a fan. He thinks that it's a meaningful tool to show the world how toxic it is (he's not really wrong) and wants to become a famous (street) artist himself. He just needs to find the right idea and some self confidence, because at the beginning of the story, his trademark art is pretty much adding monsters to old landscape paintings (which I think is actually pretty awesome)... and maybe creating pictures with the toppings on the pizzas at work.
I thought Frankie was a painfully accurate depiction of a teenager. As an adult (and a former "boring good kid") I cringed while reading about him not giving a shit about the (really very few) rules his parents set up for him, him not calling home when he stayed outside way past his curfew or being led around by his dick by a certain cute girl... but I couldn't really find any fault in the writing there, cause many teenagers are kind of trainwrecks and Frankie was a pretty harmless one most of the time.
I also really related to him when it came to his feelings about his younger sister. I know what it feels like to think that your parents love your sibling more. It might be irrational, but there is always this nagging feeling and when you get more and more (perceived) evidence over the years and keep swallowing your feelings down... you just become estranged from your family and then probably explode one day. I thought that part of the story was pretty powerfully written. I actually cried for Frankie a few times, because while his sister wasn't a bad person, she definitely seemed to be pretty thoughtless.
Which brings me right to her. I don't know what I felt about Lou. I think my perception of her was colored a lot by Frankie's POV and my own experience. I might have felt more for her, if the story had been from her perspective. The thing is, I can't say that she didn't deserve at least part of what she got.
Then there are Rory and David, the niece and nephew of Epic, the street artist Frankie adores. I thought they were both pretty unique characters. Rory because while she technically has the role of the love interest, doesn't really act like one. She knows what she wants and she knows how to get it. Frankie never quite knows if she truly likes him or if she's just manipulating him to get what she wants and while the reader cottons on quite a bit sooner than the protagonist, it was still a guessing game for most of the book.
Meanwhile it's David (apparently one of those incredibly lucky people whose tighs don't chafe when they rub together when wearing skirts - I envy him) who feels much more like the true love interest - from the awkward meeting, to the tentiative friendship, to trust and ultimately to close confidante. It was probably my favorite relationship of the story and I think that I want to pretend that they got together some point after the story.
I also always appreciate some art inside a book about artsy people. It makes them stand out.
So basically I liked it. The reason why I only gave this one 3 stars is because while I understood why Frankie acted the way he did towards his parents, Rory, and people who didn't "get" Epic's street art or art in general, it was still pretty tedious to read about.
I also thought the conclusion to the side plot of a flash mob in the grocery store was pretty weak and not believeable at all (in fact, it probably should have gotten them into even more trouble).
It was also pretty repetitive. Rory and David need his delivery truck for mission for Epic, Frankie misses his curfew by like 6 hours, his parents are pissed, he thinks it's worth it, stares at Rory in Spanish class, judges non-artsy people, does something with David, hates on his sister, works at the pizza place, Rory and David stroll in and need his delivery truck for a mission for Epic... and rinse and repeat.
Nevertheless, I would totally read a sequel if it was about Frankie's and David's adventures (where they never miss their curfew).
May 29, 2016
I don't know how he found out about it or chose this, but Paul brought this home to read for himself and then passed it on to me. I loved this. So original and an unusual subject for a YA novel. I wouldn't call it part graphic novel, but there are illustrations and a few full pages of drawn content. This was a fast read and hard to put down (which is just what I needed as I've been ever so slowly reading two books for the past 3 weeks and ought to give up on them already even though I'm 3/4 of the way through each. sigh.)
I really enjoyed the insight into street art and characters who believe in art and saying something. I was so angry on Frankie's behalf over his sister's theft of his art (for which he now, years later, wants revenge) and outraged over his parents (who otherwise seemed like good people) unquestioningly believing her.
Original, funny, and thoughtful.
I really enjoyed the insight into street art and characters who believe in art and saying something. I was so angry on Frankie's behalf over his sister's theft of his art (for which he now, years later, wants revenge) and outraged over his parents (who otherwise seemed like good people) unquestioningly believing her.
Original, funny, and thoughtful.
June 13, 2016
I can honestly say I never would have picked this up if it had not been selected as part of the 9th grade summer reading. It was a highly innovative concept, especially for a YA novel, but I did have some issues with it.
Concept: 5 stars to combine a graphic novel with traditional novel, and the subject matter was great.
Characterization: 3 stars. Frankie made DUMB choices, and I hated Rory.
Overall: 4 stars...split the difference.
Concept: 5 stars to combine a graphic novel with traditional novel, and the subject matter was great.
Characterization: 3 stars. Frankie made DUMB choices, and I hated Rory.
Overall: 4 stars...split the difference.
July 11, 2018
This one was pretty fun! I had fun reading it, and I thought that the main character had a really interesting character arc. The relationship between the siblings was something I hadn't seen much of before, especially since it was a pretty strained one that got explored--it wasn't just a, "I've got a dick brother" and that's that.
Also, this takes place in Minnesota, and as a North Dakotan, stuff that takes place in Minnesota is pretty much the closest thing I ever get to stuff that takes place in my state, so that was fun, too. Kwik Trip is life.
Also, this takes place in Minnesota, and as a North Dakotan, stuff that takes place in Minnesota is pretty much the closest thing I ever get to stuff that takes place in my state, so that was fun, too. Kwik Trip is life.
July 8, 2019
Good book, but pretty cliche
February 4, 2017
This was such a fantastic ride! Fast paced, funny and innovative. So thankful I found it!!!!
March 16, 2018
4.5 stars for Original Fake by Kirstin Cronn-Mills!
Okay, so, I honestly bought this and thought it was a purely a graphic novel, but it was much more than that. Original Fake is a novel that consists an original and unique plot, along with beautiful comical art. In this novel, you’ll find underrated influencing art, witty characters, powerful statements on society, struggles with one’s self, and high school drama. Original Fake was truly amusing and deeply funny. I’d love to read something like this again.
Okay, so, I honestly bought this and thought it was a purely a graphic novel, but it was much more than that. Original Fake is a novel that consists an original and unique plot, along with beautiful comical art. In this novel, you’ll find underrated influencing art, witty characters, powerful statements on society, struggles with one’s self, and high school drama. Original Fake was truly amusing and deeply funny. I’d love to read something like this again.
May 3, 2016
Frankie Neumann doesn’t fit in. He feels like an interloper in his family. His mother is a Frank Sinatra impersonator, his dad moonlights as Frank N’ Furter in the local theater’s production of “Rocky Horror Picture Show,” and his little sister, Lou, got all the performing and acting genes.
Frankie, a junior at Henderson High in a nondescript suburb of Minneapolis, doesn’t fit in at school, either. He’s a loner who’d rather wryly observe those around him than actually interact with them. Even from his workstation at Pizza Vendetta, he has a clear view of the entire joint but can stay removed from the action as he stands behind the glass partition making pizzas.
He has outlets, but they’re secret. He’s a promising artist, but does his work in the third floor of his old house, a floor that used to be a ballroom but now is just a storage space that no one uses except for Frankie. There, he inserts monsters into thrift store paintings and lovingly creates a mannequin he names Donna Russell. Some kids have a security blanket or a stuffed animal; Frankie has Donna.
Toward the end of his junior year, Frankie gets a surprise visit while at work at Pizza Vendetta. It’s David, a mysterious, owlish boy who wears skirts. David, a freshman, is cousin to Rory, Frankie’s crush from his Spanish class. David and Rory have heard that Frankie drives an old delivery truck. They want him and his truck to help them complete their projects—street art created by their famous Bansky-like uncle, Uncle Epic.
Frankie agrees and adventure ensues. David, Frankie, and Rory undertake Uncle Epic’s installations under the cover of darkness while trying to elude police and sneak past parents. At the same time, Frankie learns a secret about Lou. He’s thrilled to have the upper hand on his pesky sister, who’s two years younger and has been a thorn in Frankie’s side his entire life. He think’s Lou is the “chosen one,” his parents’ favorite who can do no wrong. But the ways in which she’s wronged Frankie are endless, at least in his mind.
So Frankie completes a street art series on his own, later with help from David, to get revenge on his sister and to try to “out” her secret. But the street art goes too far, especially when Rory gets involved, and Lou’s safety is compromised. Will Frankie’s guilt get the best of him? When Uncle Epic gets involved, Frankie worries the famous artist’s cover will be blown, all thanks to him.
“Original Fake” truly is original. These are well-rounded characters who are doing things that would appeal to young adult readers interested in art, creativity, originality, and themes of fitting in and family. This is Kirstin Cronn-Mills’ third young adult book, and she continues to nail the teenage voice and psyche. As I read Frankie’ first-person narration, I thought of all the teenage boys I know and how Frankie sounds and acts just like them.
I also appreciated Cronn-Mills’ depiction of Frankie and Lou’s sibling bond. These two do not like each other. Frankie has a litany of complaints about Lou since the day his parents brought her home, and Lou picks up on Frankie’s disregard for her. The two are constantly hurling insults at each other, making their parents roll their eyes and wring their hands. I don’t have teenagers, but I’d imagine that type of clash rings pretty true.
The novel is supported by illustrations by E. Eero Johnson, a prolific artist whose work has appeared in The New Yorker, The New York Times Book Review, and Wired magazine, among other places. The illustrations give life to the characters. We see Frankie’s shaggy teen boy mop, David’s round glasses and skirts, Lou’s tutus, and Rory’s flirtatious cuteness. The illustrations are peppered throughout, though in a couple of places we get page-length comic book layouts. Even on the pages without illustrations, a splash of color signifies space breaks, and some pages have color on the edge meant to look like a torn page.
"Original Fake" is a literary and visual feast, sure to please young adult readers looking for an original storyline. The teenagers in the book flirt with trouble, but at heart are good kids just trying to figure out their places in life.
Frankie, a junior at Henderson High in a nondescript suburb of Minneapolis, doesn’t fit in at school, either. He’s a loner who’d rather wryly observe those around him than actually interact with them. Even from his workstation at Pizza Vendetta, he has a clear view of the entire joint but can stay removed from the action as he stands behind the glass partition making pizzas.
He has outlets, but they’re secret. He’s a promising artist, but does his work in the third floor of his old house, a floor that used to be a ballroom but now is just a storage space that no one uses except for Frankie. There, he inserts monsters into thrift store paintings and lovingly creates a mannequin he names Donna Russell. Some kids have a security blanket or a stuffed animal; Frankie has Donna.
Toward the end of his junior year, Frankie gets a surprise visit while at work at Pizza Vendetta. It’s David, a mysterious, owlish boy who wears skirts. David, a freshman, is cousin to Rory, Frankie’s crush from his Spanish class. David and Rory have heard that Frankie drives an old delivery truck. They want him and his truck to help them complete their projects—street art created by their famous Bansky-like uncle, Uncle Epic.
Frankie agrees and adventure ensues. David, Frankie, and Rory undertake Uncle Epic’s installations under the cover of darkness while trying to elude police and sneak past parents. At the same time, Frankie learns a secret about Lou. He’s thrilled to have the upper hand on his pesky sister, who’s two years younger and has been a thorn in Frankie’s side his entire life. He think’s Lou is the “chosen one,” his parents’ favorite who can do no wrong. But the ways in which she’s wronged Frankie are endless, at least in his mind.
So Frankie completes a street art series on his own, later with help from David, to get revenge on his sister and to try to “out” her secret. But the street art goes too far, especially when Rory gets involved, and Lou’s safety is compromised. Will Frankie’s guilt get the best of him? When Uncle Epic gets involved, Frankie worries the famous artist’s cover will be blown, all thanks to him.
“Original Fake” truly is original. These are well-rounded characters who are doing things that would appeal to young adult readers interested in art, creativity, originality, and themes of fitting in and family. This is Kirstin Cronn-Mills’ third young adult book, and she continues to nail the teenage voice and psyche. As I read Frankie’ first-person narration, I thought of all the teenage boys I know and how Frankie sounds and acts just like them.
I also appreciated Cronn-Mills’ depiction of Frankie and Lou’s sibling bond. These two do not like each other. Frankie has a litany of complaints about Lou since the day his parents brought her home, and Lou picks up on Frankie’s disregard for her. The two are constantly hurling insults at each other, making their parents roll their eyes and wring their hands. I don’t have teenagers, but I’d imagine that type of clash rings pretty true.
The novel is supported by illustrations by E. Eero Johnson, a prolific artist whose work has appeared in The New Yorker, The New York Times Book Review, and Wired magazine, among other places. The illustrations give life to the characters. We see Frankie’s shaggy teen boy mop, David’s round glasses and skirts, Lou’s tutus, and Rory’s flirtatious cuteness. The illustrations are peppered throughout, though in a couple of places we get page-length comic book layouts. Even on the pages without illustrations, a splash of color signifies space breaks, and some pages have color on the edge meant to look like a torn page.
"Original Fake" is a literary and visual feast, sure to please young adult readers looking for an original storyline. The teenagers in the book flirt with trouble, but at heart are good kids just trying to figure out their places in life.
November 2, 2016
Reading: Physical Book; library borrowing
Plot: 6/10
Character: 4.8/10
Font: 7.9/10
This book is entertainingly genius but unfortunately I can only give 3.3 stars. Frankie's revenge to get back for his sister, Lou was payback-ed comes with consequence and danger. Anyway, enjoyed reading it along with the graphics in few pages
February 21, 2017
I loved this book, mainly because it combined two things I love: street art and Minneapolis. It also had a healthy does of disregard for the gender binary, so let's count that as three things I love.
May 6, 2017
A lot of YA books are preachy, insipid, and annoying. Not this one. Reading this reminded me of Judy Blume, that YA author from the 70's who wrote socially realistic books about kids, and didn't pull any punches.
I wonder which school district will try to ban it first.
I wonder which school district will try to ban it first.
November 1, 2017
I am reading Original Fake, written by Kirstin Cronn-Mills. The book takes place in what I assume is New York City. There are three main places for the scenes, the main characters house, his school, and Uncle Epics lair(more on that later). There are a lot of main characters, which include Frankie, Lou, Uncle Epic, David, Rory, and Frankie's mom and dad. Frankie is a 17 year old boy and also the main character who loves art, and I mean LOVES art. Lou is his 15 year old sister who is way into theater, Uncle Epic is a notorious artist who has come back to his home town, New York, to do, well, art! He is also Frankie's role model. David is Uncle Epics nephew, who will be important later, NUDGE NUDGE. Anyway, Rory is Uncle Epics niece who Frankie likes. Last but not least, Frankie's mom and dad. They are...strange. Its very confusing what they do. I think his mom plays a man in a musical and his dad plays a woman in a musical. I'm not sure, the book describes their jobs very briefly for only one page. They also own a cleaning business for NO REASON! Okay finally, I can explain the actual STORY. So, the story starts with Frankie doing art on the back wall of the school. Rory and David see this and ask him if he wants to join Uncle Epics team. They do a few public pieces, its all going great, until a video of people robbing a store in fancy costumes pops up and Frankie notices that his sister and a few of her friends were in it. He starts making statues with Davids help that vaguely look like the "flash Robbers" as their called. Someone keeps stealing the statues. David and Frankie have a "steamy" moment, the other flash robbers shun Lou for getting them sort of caught, she looses all her friends, and she doesn't know its her brother doing it all. Meanwhile, the police are starting to question Frankie because they saw his truck at all the Uncle Epic street art and Frankie's parents get suspicious and limit his truck privileges, plus give him a curfew. I love this book and I highly recommend it to ANYONE!
May 21, 2021
I'll admit, the start of the book wasn't that great. After the middle, though, things started to really become interesting.
The story revolves around Frankie and his band of friends putting art up around the city to make a statement about society. Things begin to take a turn for the more dangerous as Frankie starts to stick his nose into some risky business. All in all, this story has a really interesting plot.
However, the book doesn't have such an appeal. Mostly because the imagery was lacking. Sure, Frankie described Rory's scent just fine, but there could have been more moments where the olfactory imagery was in use. Figurative language could have also been better. The narrator could have submerged us in a world of color, bright and bursting with different hues of spray paint. He could he thrown us into a world of wild and horrible monsters hunting and chasing us down. He could have brought us to the green grass of the lawn near the Capitol, under the night sky illuminated by the city lights. All it took was more descriptive imagery, more vivid and creative figurative language.
But he didn't really do that.
So, you know, missed opportunity.
The characters weren't all that great, either. Rory seemed like one of those people that sound... simply unrealistic, in my opinion. She didn't have an obvious motive or reason for all her manipulation. David felt a little "too much" at certain times. I mean, that comment where he tells Frankie, "That's for you to find out," after he asks him whether he was wearing something under his utilikilt? Yikes. That doesn't sound much like what a freshman would say to a junior. There also could have been people that weren't just white or blonde. A diverse cast would have been much appreciated.
Besides all that, the plot was really cool and kept me wanting to see what would be happening next to Frankie and his friends.
The story revolves around Frankie and his band of friends putting art up around the city to make a statement about society. Things begin to take a turn for the more dangerous as Frankie starts to stick his nose into some risky business. All in all, this story has a really interesting plot.
However, the book doesn't have such an appeal. Mostly because the imagery was lacking. Sure, Frankie described Rory's scent just fine, but there could have been more moments where the olfactory imagery was in use. Figurative language could have also been better. The narrator could have submerged us in a world of color, bright and bursting with different hues of spray paint. He could he thrown us into a world of wild and horrible monsters hunting and chasing us down. He could have brought us to the green grass of the lawn near the Capitol, under the night sky illuminated by the city lights. All it took was more descriptive imagery, more vivid and creative figurative language.
But he didn't really do that.
So, you know, missed opportunity.
The characters weren't all that great, either. Rory seemed like one of those people that sound... simply unrealistic, in my opinion. She didn't have an obvious motive or reason for all her manipulation. David felt a little "too much" at certain times. I mean, that comment where he tells Frankie, "That's for you to find out," after he asks him whether he was wearing something under his utilikilt? Yikes. That doesn't sound much like what a freshman would say to a junior. There also could have been people that weren't just white or blonde. A diverse cast would have been much appreciated.
Besides all that, the plot was really cool and kept me wanting to see what would be happening next to Frankie and his friends.
February 15, 2017
I enjoyed this book because it was full of action and wondering. This book is about a boy who loves art named Frankie. There is this mystery man named Uncle Epic that makes random street art that's cool, he is Frankie's role model in life for art. He has a niece and a nephew who are Rory and David. Rory and David ask Frankie to help them with some of Uncle Epic's street art and he does. So this book is about the adventures they have for making Uncle Epic's street art.
My favorite part of this book was when Frankie started making his own street art as Ms. Vixen on twitter. This was my favorite part because even though Ms. Vixen was anonymous, Frankie could still feel proud of himself. This is the part in the book where Frankie starts having self confidence. Also this is the first time Frankie makes his own street art, and what he makes are mannequin ghoulies that he makes he puts at the Kwik Pik .
I would recommend this book to more mature kids just because of the language in this book, but I would recommend this book to people that like action filled books. I would recommend this to more mature kids because of some inappropriate words in this book and also because of some references to some things that aren't meant for most children, so I would say you should maybe read this at junior high at least. Also I recommend this to people that like action filled books because this book is full of action that puts you on the edge of your seat. I hope that you will enjoy this book as much as I did because I would call this the best book I've ever read.
My favorite part of this book was when Frankie started making his own street art as Ms. Vixen on twitter. This was my favorite part because even though Ms. Vixen was anonymous, Frankie could still feel proud of himself. This is the part in the book where Frankie starts having self confidence. Also this is the first time Frankie makes his own street art, and what he makes are mannequin ghoulies that he makes he puts at the Kwik Pik .
I would recommend this book to more mature kids just because of the language in this book, but I would recommend this book to people that like action filled books. I would recommend this to more mature kids because of some inappropriate words in this book and also because of some references to some things that aren't meant for most children, so I would say you should maybe read this at junior high at least. Also I recommend this to people that like action filled books because this book is full of action that puts you on the edge of your seat. I hope that you will enjoy this book as much as I did because I would call this the best book I've ever read.
February 6, 2018
I’m thinking I just wasn’t the right audience for this read, but I’m happy to have gotten through it. I’m also not going to lie, I definitely judged a book by the cover with this one. I had to renew my library card, and I just quickly picked a book up to bring up to the counter with me. This one happened to have pictures / comics throughout it, so I thought nothing could go wrong.
Maybe it’s because the characters were in high school and I didn’t feel any sympathy for them, or maybe it was because the main character (Frankie) was a bit petty and a little selfish, but something just felt off to me. For example, in the beginning of the book, he was making fun of another character, David, for wearing skirts, but at the same time his best friend was a mannequin??
I think the part that kept me intrigued is Uncle Epic, the mysterious artist. It was fun to follow his work and see his crew put it all together, quite literally with the elaborate illustrations. I’m also happy with how the characters changed throughout the story, Frankie was able to be proud of his own art, got rid of his crappy girl friend and rode off into the sunset with David and even the bratty sister seemed to grow up.
Phew!
Maybe it’s because the characters were in high school and I didn’t feel any sympathy for them, or maybe it was because the main character (Frankie) was a bit petty and a little selfish, but something just felt off to me. For example, in the beginning of the book, he was making fun of another character, David, for wearing skirts, but at the same time his best friend was a mannequin??
I think the part that kept me intrigued is Uncle Epic, the mysterious artist. It was fun to follow his work and see his crew put it all together, quite literally with the elaborate illustrations. I’m also happy with how the characters changed throughout the story, Frankie was able to be proud of his own art, got rid of his crappy girl friend and rode off into the sunset with David and even the bratty sister seemed to grow up.
Phew!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 26, 2024
Original Fake by Kirstin Cronn is a novel filled with mystery and intrigue. The story revolves around a girl named Lee, who lives in the world of art and deception. Lee works for a famous artist, but her life begins to unravel after she gets caught up in a major scandal involving fake artwork.
The book explores themes of identity, honesty, and reality in the art world, which is often full of illusions. Lee must confront the harsh truths about who she is, what she truly wants, and how she can escape the situation she’s entangled in.
What makes Original Fake interesting is how it touches on the world of art and forgery in such a human way. While it focuses on a seemingly glamorous world, it also shows the darker side of the pursuit of fame and recognition.
This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys a story full of twists, with a plot that keeps evolving. Kirstin Cronn delivers an engaging and thought-provoking narrative, inviting readers to reflect on what is real and fake in our everyday lives.
The book explores themes of identity, honesty, and reality in the art world, which is often full of illusions. Lee must confront the harsh truths about who she is, what she truly wants, and how she can escape the situation she’s entangled in.
What makes Original Fake interesting is how it touches on the world of art and forgery in such a human way. While it focuses on a seemingly glamorous world, it also shows the darker side of the pursuit of fame and recognition.
This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys a story full of twists, with a plot that keeps evolving. Kirstin Cronn delivers an engaging and thought-provoking narrative, inviting readers to reflect on what is real and fake in our everyday lives.
March 11, 2019
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
I picked this book up at a book fair, not knowing anything about it. What attracted me to it was that it was a novel/graphic novel hybrid which I’ve never seen before. The story itself was an easy read - nothing groundbreaking, but definitely enjoyable. Characters were pretty two dimensional, especially Lou and Rory who seem to have minimal reasons for their shitty actions. For some reason the characters reminded me of the TV show Daria, probably because Lou and Rory were both caricatures of a theatre girl and the hot, bitchy, manipulative girl, similar to how every Daria character is a dramatic version of a high school stereotype. The art in the book really added to the story, especially when the whacky sculptures came in. This was by no means the best book I’ve ever read, but I did really enjoy it!
I picked this book up at a book fair, not knowing anything about it. What attracted me to it was that it was a novel/graphic novel hybrid which I’ve never seen before. The story itself was an easy read - nothing groundbreaking, but definitely enjoyable. Characters were pretty two dimensional, especially Lou and Rory who seem to have minimal reasons for their shitty actions. For some reason the characters reminded me of the TV show Daria, probably because Lou and Rory were both caricatures of a theatre girl and the hot, bitchy, manipulative girl, similar to how every Daria character is a dramatic version of a high school stereotype. The art in the book really added to the story, especially when the whacky sculptures came in. This was by no means the best book I’ve ever read, but I did really enjoy it!
December 18, 2025
3.15 stars. I was so taken in with this book that I forgot to think rationally and was so far on Frankie's side that I fully supported him when he started doing the art that inadvertently The one thing that I could not support though was the treatment of my actual fav, David, he deserved so much better. I also didn't love the way that he treated his parents, which was so I was so mad that , I hate when moments I think are important early on in the plot go without being addressed.
March 4, 2018
A funny and weird story that mixes the value of art, the problems of families and how life is unfair in it’s ways. The Original Fake unfolds a series of unusual events that leads to a lesson in its own ways. As I read, I encounter some words and events that some “straightforward and non-realistic” people might not see through and understand the true meaning of what happens in that specific event. I advise that those who don’t get dirty jokes and unrealistic events, should not read this because you might get another conclusion of what the story is really trying to share to you. But all in all, this is rich and funny story that tries to reach out to those teenagers that just seem out of place and never fitting anywhere
October 19, 2018
God bless this book. I picked it up at the Barnes and Nobles used section because I liked the cover, (it had cool drawings). I didn’t read too much into it...I just ASSŪMMĒD that a cool book would have that kind of cover. Good assūmptiōn 👍
The story....ah, God bless this book...the story is so basic, but there’s something about it that’s so UNIQUE. It’s probably one of the most original books I’ve read in a long time. The characters...the CHARACTERS. The main character was the only “normal” person really...and all the other people were so rounded out. You went from hating some, to feeling bad for them, then wanting to strangle them, then wanting to hug them...AUGH. The CHARACTERS.
Four stars because it didn’t dig deep into my feels in the plot line, but I might just be dead inside.
The story....ah, God bless this book...the story is so basic, but there’s something about it that’s so UNIQUE. It’s probably one of the most original books I’ve read in a long time. The characters...the CHARACTERS. The main character was the only “normal” person really...and all the other people were so rounded out. You went from hating some, to feeling bad for them, then wanting to strangle them, then wanting to hug them...AUGH. The CHARACTERS.
Four stars because it didn’t dig deep into my feels in the plot line, but I might just be dead inside.
October 11, 2017
This book was made for those people who always felt out of place in life and who felt their lives were the caused by the misery forced upon them by others. This story takes back the power, showing that one can get back at everyone should they so choose but also the consequences that come with that. This story also shows you that you can have a voice in everything that you do; everything from art to theatre but you do have a voice. It also shows the consequences of not using your voice to show what you want. This book is for those people; to show them to speak up in life. It's more freeing than you could ever think possible.
November 25, 2021
This book was honestly one of my favorites I’ve read in 2021!
However that doesn’t mean it was perfect, there are definitely some flaws with the book. 1, Rory was an insufferable character, from beginning to end. 2, Lou had a really stupid reason for *Spoiler warning* going to the flash robbery. And the worst one of all, Fravid not being cannon.
I did really enjoy a lot of this book! David and Frankie were not only interesting characters, but they’re relationship was so amazing to me. The art style was very cool, and I was really interested with the story. I definitely recommend this book.
However that doesn’t mean it was perfect, there are definitely some flaws with the book. 1, Rory was an insufferable character, from beginning to end. 2, Lou had a really stupid reason for *Spoiler warning* going to the flash robbery. And the worst one of all, Fravid not being cannon.
I did really enjoy a lot of this book! David and Frankie were not only interesting characters, but they’re relationship was so amazing to me. The art style was very cool, and I was really interested with the story. I definitely recommend this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 3, 2018
Not your typical YA... An art nerd/ introvert Frankie Neuman, a character I could relate to back in the day does not fit in and his parents who do Sinatra impersonations and old vaudeville type copy shows are an embarrassment to Frankie. His sister wears a tutu and has some deep emotional problems of her own. The two will need each other before they know it. Art can be so alive and so rel to it's creator or can it. I had fun reading this unusual YA, although I'm an old 50 year old.
May 21, 2019
okay, i have no idea where to star but i have to say, this book is everything! it is fast paced, the conflict in this book isn't confusing. i start reading this like a few weeks ago and i stopped when i'm in 50 pages in. but then today, i pick this book up and i blew it like crazy.
also, the art in this book is freaking amazing!!!
from this book, i can actually relate to Frankie at some point, especially for the last 10 pages, it was incredible. i'm not sure this is a spoiler but i'll hide it just for safety
also, the art in this book is freaking amazing!!!
from this book, i can actually relate to Frankie at some point, especially for the last 10 pages, it was incredible. i'm not sure this is a spoiler but i'll hide it just for safety
June 23, 2021
I randomly grabbed this one at the library because there was an LGBT+ sticker on the spine (although if you go into it looking for that part of the story, you’ll probably be severely let down). This book was unlike anything I’ve read before, and so I really enjoyed it. Street art, extreme sibling rivalry, family drama, and teen angst abound. The format was also cool with the occasional picture or graphic novel component.
September 13, 2017
Loved this! All the characters were amazing and unique and the Uncle Epic schemes were hilarious and well thought out. The graphic novel-esque illustrations added to the story. Much love for Original Fake.
Side note: I loved David! I really wanted Fravid? to happen. And (insert name of YOU-KNOW-WHO- BUT-I-CAN'T-SAY-HER-NAME-BECAUSE-SPOILERS) was the absolute worst.
Side note: I loved David! I really wanted Fravid? to happen. And (insert name of YOU-KNOW-WHO- BUT-I-CAN'T-SAY-HER-NAME-BECAUSE-SPOILERS) was the absolute worst.
January 18, 2018
This is a fun YA story set in the Twin Cities, with lots of shout-outs to local landmarks. There were moments of action and suspense when I couldn't turn pages fast enough, and moments of teenagers just being themselves and figuring out how to relate to each other. All threads are tied up in ways that feel earned and satisfying.
February 27, 2018
I recognize that this wasn't perfect, far from it actually. But the 5-star rating I had to give because it was what I needed at that time. I'd come down into a rut with reading, so I needed something light and didn't require my brain cells to work that much. This delivered, and as a bonus, brought art, which is always welcome.
May 24, 2018
The book, “Original Fake” is about a boy who was always the odd one out. He is an artist. His family, Sister and parents are all show people. They are all the same, except for Frankie. His sister, Lou has stolen everything from him. Now he has found out that she participated in a flash rob. Will he get back at her with a worldly famous uncle Epic or will he just deal with his sister and his life?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2018
"It's hard to tell which one's the monster: the hippo, or the human who destroy's the hippo's habitat."
I'm not gonna lie, this is a very strange book...
I liked it at first but as it progressed, it became boring and just weird. I was gonna rate it a 3.8, but I realized that I had no reason to like it other than the interesting writing.
I'm not gonna lie, this is a very strange book...
I liked it at first but as it progressed, it became boring and just weird. I was gonna rate it a 3.8, but I realized that I had no reason to like it other than the interesting writing.
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