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Chester and Gus #2
Frankie and Amelia
A companion novel to Chester and Gus about inclusivity, autism, friendship, and family.
After being separated from his family, Franklin becomes an independent cat, until he meets a goofy dog named Chester. Chester is a service dog to his person, a boy named Gus, and Chester knows just the girl to be Franklin’s person—Gus’s classmate Amelia.
Amelia loves cats, but has a harder time with people. Franklin understands her, though, and sees how much they have in common. When Amelia gets into some trouble at school, Franklin wants to help the girl who’s done so much to help him. He’s not sure how, yet, but he’s determined to try.
After being separated from his family, Franklin becomes an independent cat, until he meets a goofy dog named Chester. Chester is a service dog to his person, a boy named Gus, and Chester knows just the girl to be Franklin’s person—Gus’s classmate Amelia.
Amelia loves cats, but has a harder time with people. Franklin understands her, though, and sees how much they have in common. When Amelia gets into some trouble at school, Franklin wants to help the girl who’s done so much to help him. He’s not sure how, yet, but he’s determined to try.
240 pages, Hardcover
First published October 26, 2021
14 people are currently reading
2207 people want to read
About the author
Cammie McGovern
13 books658 followersCammie McGovern was a Stegner Fellow at Stanford and received the Nelson Algren Award in short fiction. Her work has been published in Redbook, Seventeen, Glimmer Train, TriQuarterly, and other publications.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
September 15, 2021
Don't tell our dog, but I am most definitely a cat person. When I saw this cover and the description, I clicked on the "Request" button -- even though it meant listening to the computer audio. This is a companion book to Chester and Gus. Even though I had not read that one first, I still thoroughly enjoyed this one. Cammie McGovern's new book not only gives us a window into the world of autism, it helps us understand both cats and dogs better. There are some really great conversations between Frankie the cat and Chester the support dog and between Frankie and Amelia. I love the way Frankie is first discovered by Gus and then ends up living with Amelia. This would be a fantastic classroom read aloud to help kids understand the motivations behind the behavior of both themselves and others. A parent separation is also part of the plot and will resonate with some of the listeners. Thank you to Gus for all your wisdom and to Frankie for recognizing that there is still much to learn about life.
My gratitude goes to Harper Audio and NetGalley for a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
My gratitude goes to Harper Audio and NetGalley for a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 23, 2021
This is such a precious story!
Frankie and Amelia is told from the perspective of a cat (Frankie), who was lost, and then found by a new family who wasn’t able to keep him. With the help of Chester (their dog), a new forever home is finally found!
But it’s more than that: It is also the story of a young girl named Amelia who is struggling with relationships in school. She is deeply misunderstood and lonely. She needs the friendship she forms with Frankie, which proves to be more beneficial than either of them could have predicted.
I absolutely loved the way McGovern developed the cat’s personality and paralleled it to Amelia’s personality. I also adored the character growth shown in Frankie, himself. He is the typical cat, or how we typically perceive cats to be, but that air of superiority we often attribute to their personalities was taken down a notch as he learned about true friendship and the value of animals that aren’t cats. I thought this was done seamlessly and really made me love him even more.
You may be familiar with some of the characters in this book if you’ve read Chester and Gus. You don’t need to read that story to understand who they are in this book, but it’s important to know both books address neurodiversity, this one specifically demonstrating how different autism can look in boys and girls and how shortchanged girls have been with this diagnosis. That makes these books wonderful for both children and adults to read, providing a lot for people of all ages to learn from, while being completely palatable for its target audience.
This read was nearly perfect for me, but two minor issues surfaced toward the end. I was a bit dismayed that there was no resolution to Frankie’s past, as I had expected something meaningful to take place with that.
I also struggled a bit with an unrealistic aspect as it concluded. Obviously, a story told by a cat isn’t realistic, nor are animals communicating with each other verbally, but this charming aspect still worked for me. It blended well with the more serious, reality based subject matter. The choice the author made as the story ended kind of tainted the separate magical aspect for me. I imagine, however, that it will work well for young readers.
Frankie and Amelia is truly a wonderful story filled with humor and heart. It’s definitely one worth adding to the entire family’s reading list!
I am immensely grateful to Harper Audio for my review copy through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Frankie and Amelia will be out on October 26, 2021!
Frankie and Amelia is told from the perspective of a cat (Frankie), who was lost, and then found by a new family who wasn’t able to keep him. With the help of Chester (their dog), a new forever home is finally found!
But it’s more than that: It is also the story of a young girl named Amelia who is struggling with relationships in school. She is deeply misunderstood and lonely. She needs the friendship she forms with Frankie, which proves to be more beneficial than either of them could have predicted.
I absolutely loved the way McGovern developed the cat’s personality and paralleled it to Amelia’s personality. I also adored the character growth shown in Frankie, himself. He is the typical cat, or how we typically perceive cats to be, but that air of superiority we often attribute to their personalities was taken down a notch as he learned about true friendship and the value of animals that aren’t cats. I thought this was done seamlessly and really made me love him even more.
You may be familiar with some of the characters in this book if you’ve read Chester and Gus. You don’t need to read that story to understand who they are in this book, but it’s important to know both books address neurodiversity, this one specifically demonstrating how different autism can look in boys and girls and how shortchanged girls have been with this diagnosis. That makes these books wonderful for both children and adults to read, providing a lot for people of all ages to learn from, while being completely palatable for its target audience.
This read was nearly perfect for me, but two minor issues surfaced toward the end. I was a bit dismayed that there was no resolution to Frankie’s past, as I had expected something meaningful to take place with that.
I also struggled a bit with an unrealistic aspect as it concluded. Obviously, a story told by a cat isn’t realistic, nor are animals communicating with each other verbally, but this charming aspect still worked for me. It blended well with the more serious, reality based subject matter. The choice the author made as the story ended kind of tainted the separate magical aspect for me. I imagine, however, that it will work well for young readers.
Frankie and Amelia is truly a wonderful story filled with humor and heart. It’s definitely one worth adding to the entire family’s reading list!
I am immensely grateful to Harper Audio for my review copy through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Frankie and Amelia will be out on October 26, 2021!
June 25, 2021
Franklin, aka Frankie, is left behind when he runs off rather than get in the cat carrier. He is on his own for awhile until he meets a raccoon who teaches him how to live in the wild. When the raccoon is killed, he is alone again until he meets Chester, a service dog to a young boy named Gus. He stays with Chester's family until they are able to find him a new home. He moves in with Amelia and her family. He becomes a comfort animal to Amelia, but the funny thing is, Amelia is able to hear his thoughts and she talks to him. It turns out that she is as much a comfort to Frankie as he is to her.
This is a relatively short story that packs a punch. Amelia is a young girl, who although not diagnosed, appears to be on the autism spectrum. She as a hard time getting along with people and has a lot of anxiety. She loves cats and her and Benjamin, the name she gives him, hit it off right away. This was a cute story from the perspective of a cat. This is a companion book to a book about Chester and Gus, which I will definitely be reading after this one. Gus and Amelia both need help interacting with the world and Chester and Frankie do their best to help them. This is a book with a great message about acceptance, inclusivity, caring and service/comfort animals. Being a grandma of a young boy with autism, this is my hope: that this book helps adults and children understand the experiences of those with autism and help them accept those who are neurodivergent. I definitely recommend this book to everyone. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
This is a relatively short story that packs a punch. Amelia is a young girl, who although not diagnosed, appears to be on the autism spectrum. She as a hard time getting along with people and has a lot of anxiety. She loves cats and her and Benjamin, the name she gives him, hit it off right away. This was a cute story from the perspective of a cat. This is a companion book to a book about Chester and Gus, which I will definitely be reading after this one. Gus and Amelia both need help interacting with the world and Chester and Frankie do their best to help them. This is a book with a great message about acceptance, inclusivity, caring and service/comfort animals. Being a grandma of a young boy with autism, this is my hope: that this book helps adults and children understand the experiences of those with autism and help them accept those who are neurodivergent. I definitely recommend this book to everyone. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
October 21, 2021
Frankie and Amelia by Cammie McGogern
My daughter read this book and had so much to say. This is her review. “Franklin the cat is left behind by his family. He sits outside a window and sees a boy named Gus and his service dog. The service dog gets Gus’s parents to alert them to the cat.
Gus brings the cat to show and tell to decide who should get the car when he finds out that his dad is allergic. Amelia takes home the cat and the two love each other very much. I wont tell more so I don’t spoil the book.
I loved that the book was about a cat and that the cat found someone to love him.”
My daughter read this book and had so much to say. This is her review. “Franklin the cat is left behind by his family. He sits outside a window and sees a boy named Gus and his service dog. The service dog gets Gus’s parents to alert them to the cat.
Gus brings the cat to show and tell to decide who should get the car when he finds out that his dad is allergic. Amelia takes home the cat and the two love each other very much. I wont tell more so I don’t spoil the book.
I loved that the book was about a cat and that the cat found someone to love him.”
November 15, 2021
Frankie and Amelia was such a sweet story! I couldn't stop listening to this and really enjoyed every moment. I appreciated the unique point of view and the representation in it as well. I know many people who would really enjoy this book and have already recommended it to them to listen to with their children. I think people of all ages will gain something from this story!
Thanks to Netgalley for the ALC, all opinions are honest and my own.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ALC, all opinions are honest and my own.
July 12, 2025
Frankie is a cat trying to find a new family and Amelia is a preteen struggling at school while her parents are going through a divorce. Amelia’s mom lets her adopt Frankie and they become a comfort to an each other. Partway through the book we discover Amelia has autism. It had some good points to talk through with my 10 year old. We are also cat people, so it was enjoyable reading from the perspective of the Maine Coon.
October 25, 2021
Frankie is a stray that gets disconnected from his family one day and finds a new one one day though a new dog friend, Chester. At first, Frankie just gets familiar with a family again, then he starts to notice Chester’s boy Gus's mannerisms. Shortly after finding out that Gus has autism, he gets adopted by Gus’s friend, Amelia. Frankie finds new purpose once he finds out he can communicate with Amelia, and as he helps Amelia, he learns some things about himself along the way.
I think the perspective of the cat was great for this book because readers see there are some similarities between Frankie and Amelia. There’s also little tidbits included about autism, like how autism can look different in girls than in boys and how autism can be genetic.
I think the perspective of the cat was great for this book because readers see there are some similarities between Frankie and Amelia. There’s also little tidbits included about autism, like how autism can look different in girls than in boys and how autism can be genetic.
December 5, 2021
This is a charming book by Cammie McGovern who has an autistic son & is one of the founders of Whole Children, a resource center that runs after school classes & programs for children with special needs. The book shows very clearly the bond between humans and pets.
November 28, 2021
Princess Fuzzypants here: I am not a big fan of audiobooks but I finally found one that I loved. It is not because there is a gorgeous Maine Coon on the cover- although as another prime example of our breed, I can say we are all beautiful. No. It is the story I loved. Frankie, the Maine Coon, misunderstand what his humans are doing and ends up lost and homeless and quite desperate.
He has many challenges and it is questionable whether he would make it until he meets his “mentor” a raccoon named Rocky. As street wise as Frankie is innocent, Rocky is not quite as smart about the street as he thinks he is. Soon Frankie is once again alone and looking for a place. That is when he discovers a family who bring him in and provide him with a safe place. The young boy is autistic and he and Frankie connect but sadly the boy’s father is allergic and soon the mom is trying to find a loving forever home.
Amelia is a classmate and when she and Frankie meet, it is clear a match has been made. They both have a different view of the world to those around them. They understand each other. It is a sad story no longer. Filled with adventure and obstacles, this is the story of misfits who find love and acceptance. It is moving and entertaining. And did I mention the hero is a Maine Coon. Five purrs and two paws up.
He has many challenges and it is questionable whether he would make it until he meets his “mentor” a raccoon named Rocky. As street wise as Frankie is innocent, Rocky is not quite as smart about the street as he thinks he is. Soon Frankie is once again alone and looking for a place. That is when he discovers a family who bring him in and provide him with a safe place. The young boy is autistic and he and Frankie connect but sadly the boy’s father is allergic and soon the mom is trying to find a loving forever home.
Amelia is a classmate and when she and Frankie meet, it is clear a match has been made. They both have a different view of the world to those around them. They understand each other. It is a sad story no longer. Filled with adventure and obstacles, this is the story of misfits who find love and acceptance. It is moving and entertaining. And did I mention the hero is a Maine Coon. Five purrs and two paws up.
October 27, 2021
NetGalley Audio ARC.
Synthesized narrator aside, this book was just the sweetest. I enjoyed it so much and every middle grader should read it. I didn't know it was a companion to a prior novel, Chester and Gus, so I definitely plan on reading that one! It's so fun to have an author pretend to be inside an animal's head because the way we see our pets and the way they see us, is probably so so different. And it was funny to see how Franklin saw Chester, the dog. I was sad about Franklin's first family and how that didn't get resolved. I mean, I guess it would've been worse if they'd seen Franklin and wanted him back...but still. Unresolved. I would hate for that to happen in real life though I'm sure it does. Awful! I enjoyed the autism rep and thought it was portrayed well, though I can't speak to having any experience with people with autism so I hope someone would call it out if it's inaccurate. I didn't care for the title though since its inaccurate?
Synthesized narrator aside, this book was just the sweetest. I enjoyed it so much and every middle grader should read it. I didn't know it was a companion to a prior novel, Chester and Gus, so I definitely plan on reading that one! It's so fun to have an author pretend to be inside an animal's head because the way we see our pets and the way they see us, is probably so so different. And it was funny to see how Franklin saw Chester, the dog. I was sad about Franklin's first family and how that didn't get resolved. I mean, I guess it would've been worse if they'd seen Franklin and wanted him back...but still. Unresolved. I would hate for that to happen in real life though I'm sure it does. Awful! I enjoyed the autism rep and thought it was portrayed well, though I can't speak to having any experience with people with autism so I hope someone would call it out if it's inaccurate. I didn't care for the title though since its inaccurate?
May 13, 2021
Frankie the cat used to have a family but has to fend for himself for a while until he meets a dog named Chester. Chester's family takes him in and helps find Frankie a permanent home. Amelia loves cats but struggles with people. Chester knows that Amelia is the right person to take Frankie home and give him a new family. Frankie is grateful for all Amelia has done for him and wants to help her in return.
This was a cute story from the perspective of a cat. I have to say, my heart hurt a little that Frankie's old family probably never learned what happened to him. This is a companion book to a book about Chester and Gus, the boy in his family. Gus and Amelia both have autism, and Chester and Frankie do their best to help the two interact with the world. I hope this book helps children understand the experience of those with autism and help them accept those who are neurodivergent.
Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me an audio ARC of this book.
This was a cute story from the perspective of a cat. I have to say, my heart hurt a little that Frankie's old family probably never learned what happened to him. This is a companion book to a book about Chester and Gus, the boy in his family. Gus and Amelia both have autism, and Chester and Frankie do their best to help the two interact with the world. I hope this book helps children understand the experience of those with autism and help them accept those who are neurodivergent.
Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me an audio ARC of this book.
November 17, 2021
Serious & fun all in one.
I received the audiobook on NetGalley to review. At first I wasn’t sure about the cat’s attitude toward certain people & things but going through his thought process as he discovered truths, empathy, friendship & love turned out to be pretty amazing & will be great to help kids reading this. It’s pretty realistic too & not simply sugar-coated, but in an age appropriate way. It may not hit like Wonder or other such books, but the lessons learned are important & handled very realistically.
I received the audiobook on NetGalley to review. At first I wasn’t sure about the cat’s attitude toward certain people & things but going through his thought process as he discovered truths, empathy, friendship & love turned out to be pretty amazing & will be great to help kids reading this. It’s pretty realistic too & not simply sugar-coated, but in an age appropriate way. It may not hit like Wonder or other such books, but the lessons learned are important & handled very realistically.
pass
December 9, 2021The audio narration is a no for me.
April 1, 2024
I'm not exactly sure what to say about this book...
This book was great, would definitely recommend.
This book was great, would definitely recommend.
November 11, 2021
This is the story of a cat named Franklin, who finds his new forever home with Amelia, an autistic sixth grader who loves felines of all kinds. Informative, cleverly written, and paws-itively sweet!
November 7, 2021
I've read all of McGovern's children's books and loved all but one, but this is my FAVORITE! The way she shared things about autism through the eyes of a cat and dog is brilliant! And I learned some interesting facts about cats and dogs too. Keep 'em coming, Ms. McGovern!
October 3, 2021
Frankie and Amelia
by Cammie McGovern
Pub Date 26 Oct 2021 |
HarperCollins Children's Books, HarperCollins
Children's Fiction | Middle Grade
I am reviewing a copy of Frankie and Amelia through HarperCollins Children’s books and NetGalley:
Franklin becomes an independent cat after being separated from his family, until he meets a goofy dog named Chester. Chester is a service dog, for his boy whose name is Gus, and Chester knows that Franklin needs a person too, he knows just the person, Gus’s classmate Amelia!
Amelia loves cats, but has a harder time with people. Franklin understands her, though, and can see how much they have in common. When Amelia gets into trouble at school, Franklin wants to help the girl who’s done so much to help him. He’s not sure how, yet, but he’s determined to try.
In this sweet and moving novel, the reader will get to see how powerful the bond between the pets and their people are.
I give Frankie and Amelia five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
by Cammie McGovern
Pub Date 26 Oct 2021 |
HarperCollins Children's Books, HarperCollins
Children's Fiction | Middle Grade
I am reviewing a copy of Frankie and Amelia through HarperCollins Children’s books and NetGalley:
Franklin becomes an independent cat after being separated from his family, until he meets a goofy dog named Chester. Chester is a service dog, for his boy whose name is Gus, and Chester knows that Franklin needs a person too, he knows just the person, Gus’s classmate Amelia!
Amelia loves cats, but has a harder time with people. Franklin understands her, though, and can see how much they have in common. When Amelia gets into trouble at school, Franklin wants to help the girl who’s done so much to help him. He’s not sure how, yet, but he’s determined to try.
In this sweet and moving novel, the reader will get to see how powerful the bond between the pets and their people are.
I give Frankie and Amelia five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
September 26, 2021
Franklin finds himself separated from his human family. As he learns to live the life of an independent cat he meets some interesting characters and begins to learn about relationships and that other animals aren’t so bad. One day, while hanging out on a woodpile, like you do if you are a cat, he locks eyes with a boy. This is where Franklin’s journey takes a turn and leads him to a friend in Chester the dog, a new forever home, and to Amelia. Amelia has her own struggles with peer relationships and fitting in in middle school. Chester and Frankie manage to find a way to bring their two kids together and to help Amelia. Like Amelia, Frankie wants to be social, but figuring out how to do that isn’t easy. In fact, Frankie and Amelia have a lot in common. This middle grade novel is spot on! I am a long time cat owner and I think I have some knowledge of the idiosyncrasies of cat personality. Franklin/Frankie’s voice is convincing in the conceited yet affable way that cats have. I love that the humor in the story makes it so accessible to all kids. I laughed out loud so many times. The advice that Frankie’s mother gives him, especially about mice is hilarious. So is his attitude about showering. I was glad to have so many laughs because it kept me from crying in the parts that describe Amelia’s struggles. My own child is an autistic girl. There were scenes that rang so true to my experience as a parent and the experience of my girl when she was a similar age. The book stands on its own but is a companion to McGovern’s earlier Chester and Gus (HarperCollins, 2017.) I wish this book had been around when my girl was going through a hard time in fourth grade. I think this book could serve as a sort of bibliotherapy for some autistic kids. This book isn’t the first time to match autistic traits to cat behavior but does a much more positive job of it than All Cats Have Asperger Syndrome by Cathy Hoopmann (Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2006.) I think Frankie and Amelia does a great job at giving insight and could help siblings, friends, and classmates (not to mention adults.) I would also recommend this book to any kid who loves animal stories.
Thank you to NetGalley and to Harper Audio for the VoiceGalley advanced review copy.
Thank you to NetGalley and to Harper Audio for the VoiceGalley advanced review copy.
October 31, 2021
Such a cute book!
I'm a big fan of books featuring a cat as the main character, and I loved Cammie McGovern's book Just My Luck, so I knew I needed to read Frankie and Amelia.
I loved watching the relationships between Frankie and Amelia and her mom. It was also really cool the way that Frankie's approach to his relationship with Amelia changed as a result of his contact with Chester, a service dog. At first Frankie thinks being a service animal is not something he'd ever deign to do. But as he gets to know Amelia and love her, he realizes she needs a kind of help that he might be able to give-- the love and comfort of an animal companion. So Frankie sets out to find the best ways to help her.
This is a super sweet story with charming characters and a unique perspective.
Note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions my own.
I'm a big fan of books featuring a cat as the main character, and I loved Cammie McGovern's book Just My Luck, so I knew I needed to read Frankie and Amelia.
I loved watching the relationships between Frankie and Amelia and her mom. It was also really cool the way that Frankie's approach to his relationship with Amelia changed as a result of his contact with Chester, a service dog. At first Frankie thinks being a service animal is not something he'd ever deign to do. But as he gets to know Amelia and love her, he realizes she needs a kind of help that he might be able to give-- the love and comfort of an animal companion. So Frankie sets out to find the best ways to help her.
This is a super sweet story with charming characters and a unique perspective.
Note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions my own.
September 27, 2021
Thanks to Harper Audio and NetGalley for an advanced listening copy of this audiobook.
A stray cat names Franklin befriends a service dog named Gus. Franklin doesn't really want to be a pet, but he does want to belong to a girl named Amelia the same way that Gus belongs to a boy named Chester. Franklin sees something in Amelia that no one else does. Amelia has a hard time relating to people and making friends, but she loves cats. She is likely on the autism spectrum although an official diagnosis is never given in the book. I love that there are more and more children's books starring neurodivergent characters. Frankie and Amelia would be a good addition to any middle-grade library or reading list.
A stray cat names Franklin befriends a service dog named Gus. Franklin doesn't really want to be a pet, but he does want to belong to a girl named Amelia the same way that Gus belongs to a boy named Chester. Franklin sees something in Amelia that no one else does. Amelia has a hard time relating to people and making friends, but she loves cats. She is likely on the autism spectrum although an official diagnosis is never given in the book. I love that there are more and more children's books starring neurodivergent characters. Frankie and Amelia would be a good addition to any middle-grade library or reading list.
July 13, 2021
Franklin is a cat who becomes homeless, and begins looking for a new family. He meets up with Chester, who is a wonderful canine companion to Gus, who is autistic. It seems that Franklin is going to fit right in with Chester’s family, until Gus’s dad turns out to be allergic to cats. As a search begins to find a good home for Franklin, Chester comes up with an idea to pair him with Amelia, who is one of Gus’s classmates and is experiencing her own challenges. This is a great companion book to Chester and Gus! Early digital copy received from NetGalley.
June 22, 2021
After reading Chester and Gus I knew I had to read Cammie McGovern’s companion novel, Frankie and Amelia, which turned out to be just as heartfelt. This account, told from the viewpoint of the cat named Franklin, is about inclusivity, autism, friendship, and family.
Franklin lives with a wonderful and loving family. The family is moving and when he final car is leaving Franklin is no where to be found. The family waits as long as they can but they finally have to get on with the move and Franklin is left behind. They tell their daughter they’ll come back in two weeks and he’ll most likely be sitting on the porch waiting for them. Well that didn’t happen.
With no other choice Franklin becomes becomes an independent cat, until he meets a goofy dog named Chester. Chester is a service dog to his person, a boy named Gus, and Chester knows just the girl to be Franklin’s person. Here us how we meet Gus’s classmate, Amelia. Gus is autistic and Chester accompanies Gus to school as a highly trained service dog.
Amelia is different too, maybe somewhere on the spectrum as well. She loves cats, but has a hard time with people. Franklin understands her, though, and sees how much they have in common. When Amelia gets into some trouble at school, Franklin wants to help the girl who’s done so much to help him. He’s not sure how, yet, but he’s determined to try.
If you have a pet, you will find this vivid and very cat-like account told through the voice of the cat to be a sweet and moving novel that demonstrates how powerful the bond between pets and people can be.
Franklin lives with a wonderful and loving family. The family is moving and when he final car is leaving Franklin is no where to be found. The family waits as long as they can but they finally have to get on with the move and Franklin is left behind. They tell their daughter they’ll come back in two weeks and he’ll most likely be sitting on the porch waiting for them. Well that didn’t happen.
With no other choice Franklin becomes becomes an independent cat, until he meets a goofy dog named Chester. Chester is a service dog to his person, a boy named Gus, and Chester knows just the girl to be Franklin’s person. Here us how we meet Gus’s classmate, Amelia. Gus is autistic and Chester accompanies Gus to school as a highly trained service dog.
Amelia is different too, maybe somewhere on the spectrum as well. She loves cats, but has a hard time with people. Franklin understands her, though, and sees how much they have in common. When Amelia gets into some trouble at school, Franklin wants to help the girl who’s done so much to help him. He’s not sure how, yet, but he’s determined to try.
If you have a pet, you will find this vivid and very cat-like account told through the voice of the cat to be a sweet and moving novel that demonstrates how powerful the bond between pets and people can be.
July 9, 2021
This is a super cute story about a cat who loses his family but wanders into a new one.
Gus is an autistic boy who is looking out the window and discovers Frankie. The cat. Frankie is soon living with Gus, his mom and dad, and his support dog Chester. It's soon apparent that Frankie will need to go to a new home because Gus's dad is allergic to cats. So the hunt for a new family begins. Chester has this great idea to get Frankie to go to school with Gus so he can meet Amelia and she can fall in love with him and take him home. But he has to figure out how to make that happen since Gus doesn't talk that much. But before you know it that's exactly what happens and of course, Amelia love's Frankie. But Amelia has some problems. Her dad and mom just divorced and she lives in a new apartment with her mom. She doesn't get along with the kids at school. She's different from the other kids. Frankie tries talking to her like Chester does with Gus, but can she hear him? How can Frankie make her understand and help her with her problems? Will she ever make a friend at school? You will have to read the book to find out what happens.
I enjoyed the story and the characters but felt like it could have had more to the ending. It felt like I was reading along and then it was finished. It felt like there was more to tell. But I still enjoyed it and would recommend it.
Gus is an autistic boy who is looking out the window and discovers Frankie. The cat. Frankie is soon living with Gus, his mom and dad, and his support dog Chester. It's soon apparent that Frankie will need to go to a new home because Gus's dad is allergic to cats. So the hunt for a new family begins. Chester has this great idea to get Frankie to go to school with Gus so he can meet Amelia and she can fall in love with him and take him home. But he has to figure out how to make that happen since Gus doesn't talk that much. But before you know it that's exactly what happens and of course, Amelia love's Frankie. But Amelia has some problems. Her dad and mom just divorced and she lives in a new apartment with her mom. She doesn't get along with the kids at school. She's different from the other kids. Frankie tries talking to her like Chester does with Gus, but can she hear him? How can Frankie make her understand and help her with her problems? Will she ever make a friend at school? You will have to read the book to find out what happens.
I enjoyed the story and the characters but felt like it could have had more to the ending. It felt like I was reading along and then it was finished. It felt like there was more to tell. But I still enjoyed it and would recommend it.
November 26, 2021
Franklin is a cat that has been through quite a lot. He is trying to find his person. It takes awhile, but eventually that person is Amelia. In fact, his best friend, Chester, a service dog, has found his person in Gus, who becomes Amelia's friend. It doesn't take Franklin long to find a very good rapport with Amelia.
Amelia has trouble communicating, but when it comes to Franklin, she is completely comfortable. Adults don't understand Amelia, but Franklin is different. He understands her, just as Chester understands Gus. Additionally, Amelia's parents have gotten her diagnosed after several visits to her doctor. Amelia is autistic and this diagnosis goes a long way making it clear why she has difficulties both at home and at school.
Franklin proves a godsend. He is perfect for Amelia and shows beyond a shadow of a doubt how pets and humans can bond in the most helpful of ways. This touching story will be with me for years to come. This book is perfect for children who have difficulties communicating, whether they are on the spectrum or not.
Many thanks to HarperCollins and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Amelia has trouble communicating, but when it comes to Franklin, she is completely comfortable. Adults don't understand Amelia, but Franklin is different. He understands her, just as Chester understands Gus. Additionally, Amelia's parents have gotten her diagnosed after several visits to her doctor. Amelia is autistic and this diagnosis goes a long way making it clear why she has difficulties both at home and at school.
Franklin proves a godsend. He is perfect for Amelia and shows beyond a shadow of a doubt how pets and humans can bond in the most helpful of ways. This touching story will be with me for years to come. This book is perfect for children who have difficulties communicating, whether they are on the spectrum or not.
Many thanks to HarperCollins and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
December 30, 2021
My Review: I received a complimentary copy of this book via Netgalley, the following is my honest review and opinion. I was instantly drawn to the cover of this book with the big Maine Coon on the cover, and once I read the synopsis I was really intrigued. This book definitely did not disappoint! I loved the tone of the book, sweet, a bit emotional and difficult at times but also triumphant. I think it handled the subject of the way autism spectrum presents differently in different people pretty well, though I am no where near someone to really recommend it, I felt like it opened my eyes a bit more. My favorite part is that we get to read from the perspective of the cat, Frankie. He may not know or understand everything that happens with the humans around him but he does know what he can do and gives with his whole heart. It was an interesting way of approaching a difficult subject and I think it is one that will have young readers turning the pages when they may have put the book down when it got a bit heavy.
September 26, 2024
"Watching Chester has taught me that if I want to be part of a family again, I have to learn what they really need and fhen I have to figure out a way to give it to them. It's a daunting prospect. Humans are confusing.
Suddenly Chester doesn't seem dopey at all."
Humourous and heartfelt, Cammie McGovern's Frankie and Amelia is a charming little book about a cat and his humans, both navigating the struggles of being different. Throughout the novel, Maine coon cat Franklin spends time getting to know his new human Amelia, and comes to many epiphanies on why she's not quite like other humans.
"I wish the other kids at school could see this side of her. I don't know if she would consider making a cardboard box for each of them with drawings on the wall of their faces. If she did, I bet they would start to see her differently."
"I don't want Amelia to wish she was someone different. Just the idea scares me."
This novel, while being funny, is one of inclusion, and super cute for readers of all ages. Loved it.
Suddenly Chester doesn't seem dopey at all."
Humourous and heartfelt, Cammie McGovern's Frankie and Amelia is a charming little book about a cat and his humans, both navigating the struggles of being different. Throughout the novel, Maine coon cat Franklin spends time getting to know his new human Amelia, and comes to many epiphanies on why she's not quite like other humans.
"I wish the other kids at school could see this side of her. I don't know if she would consider making a cardboard box for each of them with drawings on the wall of their faces. If she did, I bet they would start to see her differently."
"I don't want Amelia to wish she was someone different. Just the idea scares me."
This novel, while being funny, is one of inclusion, and super cute for readers of all ages. Loved it.
September 12, 2021
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this novel. This did not affect my review at all.
This was a heartfelt novel about an autistic girl, told from the perspective of her cat. After accidentally running away from home, Frankie is lost. He survives on his own, with the help of a raccoon, for a while before getting found by another family. He lives with a service dog, Chester, and an autistic boy, Gus. Frankie enjoys it there, but the father in the family is allergic to cats. He gets adopted by a different family with a young girl named Amelia. They bond quickly, and he helps her gain confidence and become a better person.
Frankie and Amelia was one of the sweetest books I’ve ever read! Any upper elementary or lower middle school student who is a fan of cats would enjoy this book tremendously! I picked this up not knowing it was a companion to another book, Chester and Gus, and am adding that to my to-read shelf now! A great book.
Grades 3+.
This was a heartfelt novel about an autistic girl, told from the perspective of her cat. After accidentally running away from home, Frankie is lost. He survives on his own, with the help of a raccoon, for a while before getting found by another family. He lives with a service dog, Chester, and an autistic boy, Gus. Frankie enjoys it there, but the father in the family is allergic to cats. He gets adopted by a different family with a young girl named Amelia. They bond quickly, and he helps her gain confidence and become a better person.
Frankie and Amelia was one of the sweetest books I’ve ever read! Any upper elementary or lower middle school student who is a fan of cats would enjoy this book tremendously! I picked this up not knowing it was a companion to another book, Chester and Gus, and am adding that to my to-read shelf now! A great book.
Grades 3+.
April 2, 2023
This is one of the best MG books I've read that shows the range of neurodiversity with an intimate view of Amelia, a 5th grader who is struggling socially to the point of complete withdrawal from school. It's told from the prospective of Frankie, a cat that was separated from his first family and needs a new forever home. Also there's Chester the service dog, who is assists Gus, another neurodiverse child. Frankie notices that Amelia is a lot like him. She doesn't like showers, or foods that are too crunchy, loud noises, or being hugged. Amelia isn't good at making friends, but neither is Frankie, but all of those things are normal for cats. Why isn't it okay for Amelia to be like that? Some parts of this book are hard such as when Amelia struggles so hard only to keep failing over and over, but other parts are uplifting and hopeful, and readers are going to totally love Frankie and Chester.
June 22, 2021
This is a heartwarming book about a cat who struggles to find a new family after losing his first. After befriending a dog named Chester, Frankie is introduced to a girl named Amelia, who is autistic.
I liked Chester's narration, and the flashbacks that provided insight into his past. There are strong themes of friendship and family in this book, and I think it would be a good one to read to children or with the family. If you're a fan of cats and dogs, you should read this book.
At times, I felt this book was a bit too slow paced for my liking. I also wished that there was more closure regarding Frankie's first family.
All in all, this was a sweet book that's worth a read. :)
Thank you to Netgalley for providing a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review
I liked Chester's narration, and the flashbacks that provided insight into his past. There are strong themes of friendship and family in this book, and I think it would be a good one to read to children or with the family. If you're a fan of cats and dogs, you should read this book.
At times, I felt this book was a bit too slow paced for my liking. I also wished that there was more closure regarding Frankie's first family.
All in all, this was a sweet book that's worth a read. :)
Thank you to Netgalley for providing a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review
April 4, 2022
This book was really good. Even though it was the second book in the series, I followed the whole story without having read the first book. It was touching without overdoing any of its themes. It basically kept it real.
I have two concerns. One: I feel like the author didn't make enough of a big deal that Amelia's reaction/outburst to her friends was what spurred the autism diagnosis, in addition to her other checks on the checklist. I don't want readers to think that just because you are having a tough time with friends you used to get along with, then you might have autism. Second: I cried while reading this, and I don't know if it was the tough as heck stuff I was dealing with earlier in the day, or if it was the book. The point is that I have a little hesitation about doing this as a read aloud. But I bet I could talk through any big feelings.
I have two concerns. One: I feel like the author didn't make enough of a big deal that Amelia's reaction/outburst to her friends was what spurred the autism diagnosis, in addition to her other checks on the checklist. I don't want readers to think that just because you are having a tough time with friends you used to get along with, then you might have autism. Second: I cried while reading this, and I don't know if it was the tough as heck stuff I was dealing with earlier in the day, or if it was the book. The point is that I have a little hesitation about doing this as a read aloud. But I bet I could talk through any big feelings.
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