Being Frank
Written by Donna Earnhardt, Illustrated by Andrea Castellani
Written by Donna Earnhardt, Illustrated by Andrea Castellani
"Honesty is the best policy." That's Frank's motto.
But Frank's overly frank comments tend to annoy his friends and teachers. Not even his own
mother is all that fond of Frank's "tell all" attitude.
So Frank turns to his grandpa for help. “Everyone is mad at me for being frank. I’m not sure
honesty is the best policy anymore.”
“That used to happen to me, too,” said Grandpa Ernest.
A few outrageous hats, a spicy jar of relish, and some grandfatherly wisdom help Frank
realize that truth is best served with more sugar and less pepper.
But Frank's overly frank comments tend to annoy his friends and teachers. Not even his own
mother is all that fond of Frank's "tell all" attitude.
So Frank turns to his grandpa for help. “Everyone is mad at me for being frank. I’m not sure
honesty is the best policy anymore.”
“That used to happen to me, too,” said Grandpa Ernest.
A few outrageous hats, a spicy jar of relish, and some grandfatherly wisdom help Frank
realize that truth is best served with more sugar and less pepper.
Hardcover, 32 full color pages, ages 4-8
October 2012
ISBN 978-1-9362611-9-2
October 2012
ISBN 978-1-9362611-9-2
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AWARDS & HONORS
Kansas Bill Martin, Jr. Picture Book Award list 2013-14
Washington Children's Choice Picture Book Award list 2013-14
Finalist for the SCWBI Crystal Kite Award, Southeast Division 2013 (covering FL,
GA,SC, NC, AL, MS)
About.com Reader's Choice Awards Runner-Up for Favorite Children's Book
Featuring Grandparents 2013
Indiana Young Hoosier Book Award Summer Reading List 2013
Kansas Bill Martin, Jr. Picture Book Award list 2013-14
Washington Children's Choice Picture Book Award list 2013-14
Finalist for the SCWBI Crystal Kite Award, Southeast Division 2013 (covering FL,
GA,SC, NC, AL, MS)
About.com Reader's Choice Awards Runner-Up for Favorite Children's Book
Featuring Grandparents 2013
Indiana Young Hoosier Book Award Summer Reading List 2013
Praise for Being Frank
Featured on Travis Jonkers' 2012 Children’s Lit: The Year in Miscellanea
"Best Toenail Clipping"
"A while back I heard tell of a toenail-clipping scene in a picture book from John Schumacher on Twitter.
A couple weeks ago I happened to come upon the scene he was talking about. An out-of-left-field moment."
From Booklist
Meet Frank. He is frank. And being frank, Frank likes to frankly tell everyone exactly what he thinks. “Your freckles remind me of the Big
Dipper.” “Your singing is kind of shrieky.” When that gets him sent home from school, he displays the same frankness to his mother: “You
wouldn’t get so many wrinkles if you didn’t glare at me like that.” Pretty soon Frank is lonely enough to alphabetize his bug collection. Enter
Grandpa Ernest, who has mastered the ability to be earnest—it’s sort of like being frank, but nicer. When encountered with a ridiculous hat
topped with flowers, Grandpa compliments the flower in the middle. “I talked about the good things on her hat instead of the not-so-good
things,” he explains. This is a lesson-to-be-learned book if ever there was one, but Earnhardt is so, well, frank about it that kids will
laugh right along with Frank’s every miscue. Meanwhile, Castellani’s bright, glossy, retro-styled Photoshop illustrations pop with
frantic energy. For kids who need to know that honesty isn’t always the best policy.— Daniel Kraus
From Kirkus Reviews
Frank believes that honesty is the best policy, but is that always the case? Elementary schooler Frank never lies to his schoolmates. He tells
Dotty her freckles look like the Big Dipper, and he tells Carol her singing is “kind of shrieky.” Neither of them is pleased. Frank is also
truthful with adults. He tells his teacher her breath smells; when sent to the principal, Frank tells him his toupee looks like a weasel. Even his
mother doesn't seem to appreciate his candor. No one in Frank's life (including Frank) is happy, so he seeks help from his grandpa. Grandpa
Ernest tells Mrs. Peacock he likes the purple flower in her hat best when she asks if he likes her gaudy chapeau. Frank thinks Grandpa has
lied, but no: Grandpa only focused on the good things. Frank applies Grandpa's advice to good effect and serves up the honesty with "more
sugar... / and less pepper." Earnhardt's debut is a humorous object lesson in honesty, though the central punniness will be lost on the
audience without some explanation. Italian illustrator Castellani's blocky and bright Saturday-morning-cartoon–style illustrations
amp the wackiness and make this frankly fun. On-the-mark help for the parents of inadvertently tactless tots.
From Children's Literature
Frank's policy in life is "Honesty is the best policy," but when his unvarnished honesty gets him in hot water with his friends, his teachers, and
finally, his mom, Frank begins to realize that others do not embrace his truthfulness in the way he might expect. A visit to his Grandpa
Ernest's and watching his very savvy grandfather respond to an out-of-this-world hat as well as a friend looking for advice on his relish helps
Frank to understand that sometimes, we can be honest without being hurtful. Taking this new knowledge to heart, Frank is able to find a
positive attribute in all of his friends and teachers and comment on those; he even manages to make his mom feel better by writing her a
poem commenting on her "not so grey" hair. The illustrations are vivid and fit the dynamic of the book very well. This is a great book
for younger readers as they learn more about how to interact with others in their lives with language use that supports good intentions.
From Publishers Weekly
Whether children understand the titular pun on the word “frank,” they’ll understand the difference between the kind of frankness Frank starts
out with (“Your singing is kind of shrieky,” he tells a classmate) and the kind he ends up with (“You sure can hit those high notes,” he says to
the same classmate after a heart-to-heart with his tactful Grandpa Ernest). Newcomer Earnhardt makes her point with solid pacing and
lots of laughs: “She knew how fast she was going,” Frank tells a police officer who’s pulled over his mother. “I told her.” Grandpa Ernest’s
demonstration of diplomacy is low-key. “Well,” he says when a neighbor asks him about her gaudy hat, “there are an awful lot of flowers up
there. But my favorite is the purple one in the middle.” Italian illustrator Castellani’s digital artwork is crisp, colorful, and
energetic.... While Frank might not persuade sharp-tongued children to mend their ways, the story provides a useful array of good ways to
deliver bad news. Ages 5–7. (Oct.)
From School Library Journal
Frank says what he thinks. No one, from a “shrieky” classmate to his toupee-wearing principal, really appreciates his opinions. Even his
mother, who speeds and has wrinkles, isn’t safe from her son’s unvarnished comments. With everyone angry with him, the boy begins to
question whether honesty is indeed the best policy. He gets some sage advice from Grandpa and learns to tell the truth without hurting
people’s feelings. The quirky cartoon-style illustrations boost the entertainment value of this picture book, whose message is
delivered with humor. Great for reading aloud and for discussions on being diplomatic.
From the Puget Sound Council for the Review of Children's Media (PSC)
Frank is, frankly, too frank. He tells the brutal truth regardless of the consequences. He never lies, but he also never keeps quiet. He just
puts his viewpoint right out there, much to the consternation of those he is evaluating. It's his grandfather who teaches him the fine art of being
honest while not being hurtful. Try to point out the positive. Only give a completely candid answer when asked for it. As he starts applying
these concepts he discovers that honesty is, indeed, the best policy, but it's best served with more sugar and less pepper. This is a
delightful romp with colorful expressive illustrations by Andrea Castellani that make it perfect for group sharing. It would be
sure to lead to good classroom discussion and would be a nice addition to units on social skills.
From Words By Mom blog
Oh, how I love this book! Frank truly represents all that is honest and charming and comical about kids…they say it like it is, oblivious to
the adult phenomenon of social filters. Frank takes a lot of slack from people for simply saying things as he sees them. This is a challenge
that we as grown-ups face. How do we teach our kids to be honest but only under the right circumstances? Or, how do we convey to them
that lying is okay if it’s to spare someone’s feelings….is it? The purity of childhood makes them prone to black-and-white thinking. This
book certainly touches upon this in a sweet and charming and yes, funny way.
In this story, Frank’s grandfather can certainly relate and empathize with Frank’s predicament, and he teaches Frank how to use his honesty
in a good way. Free from lying! What could be better? Frank’s grandfather not only helps Frank to modify his ways and improve his
technique, but he can help us parents too, in handling this issue and perhaps save us from some potentially embarrassing moments.
And, if the story isn’t enough, the illustrations are great. They’re fun and whimsical and suit the feel of the story. A perfectly balanced work!
Enjoy this book! I know I do!!
From GRASP (The Global and Regional Asperger Syndrome Partnership) newsletter (March 2013)
"…uses humor to teach kids that being brutally honest isn’t always the best policy. Kids on the spectrum often have problems with white lies
and have a tendency to be too blunt….This book gently teaches the art of diplomacy and how to speak the truth with tact and love."
From Improve Your Social Skills.com
"...opens up opportunities for dialogue between parents and kids (especially kids with Asperger’s or a similar condition.) I can see the book
being used to start conversations about “Hey, remember when you told that kid at recess he smelled funny?” in a way that is engaging and
comfortable for the kid, or as a jumping off point for games like “Let’s say something in a rude way, and then figure out how to phrase it in a
polite way.”
I remember that during my own social skills improvement, it was a huge help that I felt like my parents were partners, instead of dictators
telling me what to do. I think that Being Frank might be a great resource for parents to help them partner with their kids to work on social
skills and tactfulness, instead of just laying down the law. If you’re a parent of a kid who struggles with social skills, or you know someone
who is, check out Being Frank!"
From Midwest Book Review
Telling the truth is a good thing, but the method is sometimes more important than the content. "Being Frank" is a children's picturebook
telling of overly honest Frank whose truthfulness gets him in more trouble than it makes him friends. With the guidance of his also honest
grandfather Ernest, he learns to better serve his truth in life. "Being Frank" is a guide to good communication and how to use the power of
honesty for the better, and the difference between honesty and rudeness.
From HealthyBooks
Frank by name and Frank by nature, this Frank is too honest! He believes that 'honesty is the best policy', but when he tells his friend Carol
that her singing 'is kind of shrieky' and his teacher that her 'breath smells funny', they are not impressed. Mum is even less so when he tells the
police officer that she was speeding! His friends reactions to his honesty make Frank sad, and he goes to find Grandpa Ernest, who also has
a reputation for being more honest than is necessary. Grandpa explains that while one must always be honest, one can do it in ways that
make people feel better about themselves. After Frank sees Grandpa's ways of handling the truth, he learns the softer options - that the truth
should be 'served with more sugar and less pepper'. The comic-style pictures add to the fun.
From King's County Library Book Talk
IMHO, Being Frank by Donna W. Earnhardt is frankly quite funny! Andrea Castellani's bold and colorful illustrations would make this a
great read-aloud choice for young children, especially those in grades K-2.
From City Book Review
"...Being Frank is laugh-out-loud funny. The well-named characters and their true-to-life foibles could describe many of the people we
know. The awkward situations in which they find themselves—being pulled over for a speeding ticket or asked an opinion about a very ugly
hat—are humorous in their accuracy. The cartoonish illustrations add to the fun. When Grandpa tries Mr. Pickles’ overly spicy relish, for
example, flames shoot of his mouth, his hair stands on end, and he drinks water straight from the hose. Being Frank teaches a lesson with
humor and sincerity, making it a fun read for everyone."
From 3rd Grade Reading
Third graders will appreciate the honesty of Frank regarding situations he finds himself in and will chuckle at the responses and illustrations.
The story is a great read aloud for children who often don’t understand that there are tactful ways to approach and make comments to
others without hurting someone’s feelings.
From the Michigan Reading Journal, September 2012
“This cute and captivating story demonstrates to kids how being brutally honest isn’t always necessary…. Follow Frank as he learns the
balancing act of finding tactful ways to tell the truth in this relatable and comical tale. Earnhardt’s book is a thoughtful approach in teaching
kids to always stay honest, but to be mindful of emotions and soften their approach.”
From Jan Fields at MyShelf
Frank is a little boy who believes honesty is always the best policy, so he says whatever comes to mind. But Frank's subjective observations
soon have everyone mad at him and he isn't sure why. Frank turns to his grandfather, who has a history of brutal frankness himself. Grampa
Ernest soon shows Frank how to temper his subjectivity with kindness. I've known a few adults (including myself at times) who could benefit
from Grampa Ernest's wisdom! The bright, over-the-top illustrations do a great job of showing just how annoyed everyone becomes with
Frank's bluntness. A cute, quirky reminder for everyone that honesty and kindness can go hand in hand.
From Good Reads with Ronna
I just finished having a conversation with my son about not needing to tell people everything that you are thinking when I happened to pick up
Being Frank ($16.95. Flashlight Press, ages 4-8) written by Donna Earnhardt and illustrated by Andrea Castellani. With its quirky vintage
looking artwork and its big sense of humor, this new picture book is absolutely perfect for helping school-aged children grasp the subtle
nuances of truth telling.
After hurting his friends’ feelings one time too many because of his credo “Honesty is the best policy,” young Frank seeks out his grandpa for
some advice. Fortunately for Frank, Grandpa Earnest has mastered the fine art of tactfulness and teaches his grandson exactly what it takes
to share one’s opinion without hurting someone’s feelings. Not so easy, true. But it can be done. For example, when Mrs. Peacock walks by
displaying her extravagantly plumaged new hat and asks Earnest if he likes it, he knows just what to say. “… there are an awful lot of flowers
up there. But my favorite is the purple one in the middle.”
So when Mr. Wiggins, school principal and toupee wearer dances at the school carnival what does the formerly insultingly honest lad say? “I
see you have two left feet, sir?” NO! Not the new and improved Frank. “Impressive spins, sir!” remarks Frank. There are smiles and
laughter all around that afternoon when, rather than repeat to Dotty that her freckles remind him of the Big Dipper, Frank tells his friend, “I
like dots better than squares.” Clearly Grandpa’s lesson that frankness is best served with more sugar and less pepper has left a lasting, and
sweet impression. Kids will agree the book has just the right amount of all the best picture book ingredients to make this one a keeper: great
art, funny character names, clear and concise language and an important message about honesty. To leave a great taste in the mouth, serve
carefully measured amounts.
From Miss Laurie Found a Story!
How often have you experienced the precocious and sometimes embarrassing "out of the mouths of babes" moments? This is a book that is
loads of fun for both children and adults, while teaching the meaning and necessity of tact... Andrea Castellani's illustrations are brilliant and
add to the fun.
From Kid Lit Reviews
Kids and parents will like everything about this book. The message is clear, there is lots of humor—including in the illustrations—and the
advice from grandpa is great advice that we can all use...Being Frank is a good book for not only those kids who always tell the truth —
even when it hurts— but also for those that do not like to tell the truth.
From Mommy Secrets blog
My 10 year old son and I just read a delightful new children’s book, titled “Being Frank”. It was written by Donna Earnhardt and illustrated
by Andrea Castellani. It is about a little boy who shares his opinions SO honestly that it hurts feelings and relationships.
The book has a great message for adults training children with a knack for being a bit too frank. This was a BIG struggle for my daughter at
age 4. I vividly (and with horror) remember her loudly sharing in front of the waiter “Mommy, he’s really fat.”, and in front of a woman at
the pool, “Mommy, she’s not modest.”. And my 7-year old son told me last month, “You’re not good at telling jokes mom, you’re not very
funny. You should just stick to talking.” All true, but definitely not shared with grace!
Earnhardt offers a lovely and humorous way to talk with young children about being respectful and thoughtful while also being honest. She
shares great examples of the good and bad ways to express your honest opinions.
Daniel, age 10, says, “I like the book. It teaches you how to tell the truth, and it’s really funny.”
This is a good resource for counselors to use in class. It’s good for parents and grandparents to read to children ages 4-8, and possibly
even with middle school children. The website also has creative activity downloads to further enhance the lessons.
From Jennifer Rumberger's Perfect Picture Book Friday
I just love that Frank goes to his grandpa for advice – how cool is that? I don’t want to spill the beans by saying if the advice helps or not,
but let me just say that this book makes me chuckle and the illustrations are the perfect wacky fit. The lesson Frank learns is appropriate for
kids AND adults!
From Flying Off My Bookshelf blog
A little discussion with his grandfather helps Frank learn about the difference between honesty and tact and how to still tell the truth without
hurting people's feelings.... Flashlight Press does a good job of creating picture books with messages that aren't too heavy-handed. Perky
digital illustrations and funny details will make this popular with parents who want to teach their kids the difference between honesty and tact.
From Barbara Gruener on Sunny Days in Second Grade blog
Frank is an elementary student who hasn't quite learned yet that 'you get more flies with honey.' In fact, he lives so strictly guided by 'honesty
is the best policy,' that his truth is often unkind and hurts the feelings of those he loves. Spewing his Frank observations, this little truth sleuth
so upsets people in his world that he himself isn't happy anymore. When he goes for advice, it's Grandpa Ernest who teaches him how to
filter his Frank thoughts and sprinkle the truth with tenderness.
This newcomer is rich with literary treasures. Analyze the characters' names. Why did the author pick Zaroma for the teacher who needs
a breath mint? Why is the Grandfather's name Ernest? What about Frank's singing friend Carol? And his freckled friend Dotty?
What other examples of names-that-fit can they find in this text? Talk about axioms. What is an axiom and what example(s) can they find in
the book? What other axioms do they know?
Finally, have them talk or write about a time when they had to cushion the truth with a little compassion and care. Check out this book and
enjoy Being Frank!
From Momma's Bacon blog
"The illustrations are hilarious and for those with little ones, this story will definitely make you laugh out loud at how unfiltered our children can
be at their young age. Great read!"
From Polilla Writes blog
"… a "must have" beautifully illustrated storybook with a moral presented in an entertaining way….believable and entertaining for children…
a wonderful book to add to your bookshelf."
From Books That Heal Kids blog
"When I get good teacher feedback, I know I've got a great one on my shelf. This is a social skills WINNER. Being Frank teaches kids the
importance of THINKING before they speak…. Frank had a big impact on our students…. This book has breathed new life into some of
my social skills lessons. It is a MUST."
From Kid's Imagination Train
"This is a great picture book with a wonderful message for kids…. The illustrations are unique, animated and colorful. They express the
emotion of the story extremely well."
From Pixie Dust Healing blog
I feel this book could be really helpful to Asperger kids. I don't think that's where the authors were going when they created the book but
it's what I see when I read it. It helps explain how that "frank", comment, while honest and factual might not get you the result you're looking
for. Frank isn't encouraged to lie, rather he becomes aware of how he could pick an honest fact that could keep both his integrity and the
other person's feelings intact. Hmm... Sounds like balance to me. Maybe we could all use a bit of that.
Featured on Travis Jonkers' 2012 Children’s Lit: The Year in Miscellanea
"Best Toenail Clipping"
"A while back I heard tell of a toenail-clipping scene in a picture book from John Schumacher on Twitter.
A couple weeks ago I happened to come upon the scene he was talking about. An out-of-left-field moment."
From Booklist
Meet Frank. He is frank. And being frank, Frank likes to frankly tell everyone exactly what he thinks. “Your freckles remind me of the Big
Dipper.” “Your singing is kind of shrieky.” When that gets him sent home from school, he displays the same frankness to his mother: “You
wouldn’t get so many wrinkles if you didn’t glare at me like that.” Pretty soon Frank is lonely enough to alphabetize his bug collection. Enter
Grandpa Ernest, who has mastered the ability to be earnest—it’s sort of like being frank, but nicer. When encountered with a ridiculous hat
topped with flowers, Grandpa compliments the flower in the middle. “I talked about the good things on her hat instead of the not-so-good
things,” he explains. This is a lesson-to-be-learned book if ever there was one, but Earnhardt is so, well, frank about it that kids will
laugh right along with Frank’s every miscue. Meanwhile, Castellani’s bright, glossy, retro-styled Photoshop illustrations pop with
frantic energy. For kids who need to know that honesty isn’t always the best policy.— Daniel Kraus
From Kirkus Reviews
Frank believes that honesty is the best policy, but is that always the case? Elementary schooler Frank never lies to his schoolmates. He tells
Dotty her freckles look like the Big Dipper, and he tells Carol her singing is “kind of shrieky.” Neither of them is pleased. Frank is also
truthful with adults. He tells his teacher her breath smells; when sent to the principal, Frank tells him his toupee looks like a weasel. Even his
mother doesn't seem to appreciate his candor. No one in Frank's life (including Frank) is happy, so he seeks help from his grandpa. Grandpa
Ernest tells Mrs. Peacock he likes the purple flower in her hat best when she asks if he likes her gaudy chapeau. Frank thinks Grandpa has
lied, but no: Grandpa only focused on the good things. Frank applies Grandpa's advice to good effect and serves up the honesty with "more
sugar... / and less pepper." Earnhardt's debut is a humorous object lesson in honesty, though the central punniness will be lost on the
audience without some explanation. Italian illustrator Castellani's blocky and bright Saturday-morning-cartoon–style illustrations
amp the wackiness and make this frankly fun. On-the-mark help for the parents of inadvertently tactless tots.
From Children's Literature
Frank's policy in life is "Honesty is the best policy," but when his unvarnished honesty gets him in hot water with his friends, his teachers, and
finally, his mom, Frank begins to realize that others do not embrace his truthfulness in the way he might expect. A visit to his Grandpa
Ernest's and watching his very savvy grandfather respond to an out-of-this-world hat as well as a friend looking for advice on his relish helps
Frank to understand that sometimes, we can be honest without being hurtful. Taking this new knowledge to heart, Frank is able to find a
positive attribute in all of his friends and teachers and comment on those; he even manages to make his mom feel better by writing her a
poem commenting on her "not so grey" hair. The illustrations are vivid and fit the dynamic of the book very well. This is a great book
for younger readers as they learn more about how to interact with others in their lives with language use that supports good intentions.
From Publishers Weekly
Whether children understand the titular pun on the word “frank,” they’ll understand the difference between the kind of frankness Frank starts
out with (“Your singing is kind of shrieky,” he tells a classmate) and the kind he ends up with (“You sure can hit those high notes,” he says to
the same classmate after a heart-to-heart with his tactful Grandpa Ernest). Newcomer Earnhardt makes her point with solid pacing and
lots of laughs: “She knew how fast she was going,” Frank tells a police officer who’s pulled over his mother. “I told her.” Grandpa Ernest’s
demonstration of diplomacy is low-key. “Well,” he says when a neighbor asks him about her gaudy hat, “there are an awful lot of flowers up
there. But my favorite is the purple one in the middle.” Italian illustrator Castellani’s digital artwork is crisp, colorful, and
energetic.... While Frank might not persuade sharp-tongued children to mend their ways, the story provides a useful array of good ways to
deliver bad news. Ages 5–7. (Oct.)
From School Library Journal
Frank says what he thinks. No one, from a “shrieky” classmate to his toupee-wearing principal, really appreciates his opinions. Even his
mother, who speeds and has wrinkles, isn’t safe from her son’s unvarnished comments. With everyone angry with him, the boy begins to
question whether honesty is indeed the best policy. He gets some sage advice from Grandpa and learns to tell the truth without hurting
people’s feelings. The quirky cartoon-style illustrations boost the entertainment value of this picture book, whose message is
delivered with humor. Great for reading aloud and for discussions on being diplomatic.
From the Puget Sound Council for the Review of Children's Media (PSC)
Frank is, frankly, too frank. He tells the brutal truth regardless of the consequences. He never lies, but he also never keeps quiet. He just
puts his viewpoint right out there, much to the consternation of those he is evaluating. It's his grandfather who teaches him the fine art of being
honest while not being hurtful. Try to point out the positive. Only give a completely candid answer when asked for it. As he starts applying
these concepts he discovers that honesty is, indeed, the best policy, but it's best served with more sugar and less pepper. This is a
delightful romp with colorful expressive illustrations by Andrea Castellani that make it perfect for group sharing. It would be
sure to lead to good classroom discussion and would be a nice addition to units on social skills.
From Words By Mom blog
Oh, how I love this book! Frank truly represents all that is honest and charming and comical about kids…they say it like it is, oblivious to
the adult phenomenon of social filters. Frank takes a lot of slack from people for simply saying things as he sees them. This is a challenge
that we as grown-ups face. How do we teach our kids to be honest but only under the right circumstances? Or, how do we convey to them
that lying is okay if it’s to spare someone’s feelings….is it? The purity of childhood makes them prone to black-and-white thinking. This
book certainly touches upon this in a sweet and charming and yes, funny way.
In this story, Frank’s grandfather can certainly relate and empathize with Frank’s predicament, and he teaches Frank how to use his honesty
in a good way. Free from lying! What could be better? Frank’s grandfather not only helps Frank to modify his ways and improve his
technique, but he can help us parents too, in handling this issue and perhaps save us from some potentially embarrassing moments.
And, if the story isn’t enough, the illustrations are great. They’re fun and whimsical and suit the feel of the story. A perfectly balanced work!
Enjoy this book! I know I do!!
From GRASP (The Global and Regional Asperger Syndrome Partnership) newsletter (March 2013)
"…uses humor to teach kids that being brutally honest isn’t always the best policy. Kids on the spectrum often have problems with white lies
and have a tendency to be too blunt….This book gently teaches the art of diplomacy and how to speak the truth with tact and love."
From Improve Your Social Skills.com
"...opens up opportunities for dialogue between parents and kids (especially kids with Asperger’s or a similar condition.) I can see the book
being used to start conversations about “Hey, remember when you told that kid at recess he smelled funny?” in a way that is engaging and
comfortable for the kid, or as a jumping off point for games like “Let’s say something in a rude way, and then figure out how to phrase it in a
polite way.”
I remember that during my own social skills improvement, it was a huge help that I felt like my parents were partners, instead of dictators
telling me what to do. I think that Being Frank might be a great resource for parents to help them partner with their kids to work on social
skills and tactfulness, instead of just laying down the law. If you’re a parent of a kid who struggles with social skills, or you know someone
who is, check out Being Frank!"
From Midwest Book Review
Telling the truth is a good thing, but the method is sometimes more important than the content. "Being Frank" is a children's picturebook
telling of overly honest Frank whose truthfulness gets him in more trouble than it makes him friends. With the guidance of his also honest
grandfather Ernest, he learns to better serve his truth in life. "Being Frank" is a guide to good communication and how to use the power of
honesty for the better, and the difference between honesty and rudeness.
From HealthyBooks
Frank by name and Frank by nature, this Frank is too honest! He believes that 'honesty is the best policy', but when he tells his friend Carol
that her singing 'is kind of shrieky' and his teacher that her 'breath smells funny', they are not impressed. Mum is even less so when he tells the
police officer that she was speeding! His friends reactions to his honesty make Frank sad, and he goes to find Grandpa Ernest, who also has
a reputation for being more honest than is necessary. Grandpa explains that while one must always be honest, one can do it in ways that
make people feel better about themselves. After Frank sees Grandpa's ways of handling the truth, he learns the softer options - that the truth
should be 'served with more sugar and less pepper'. The comic-style pictures add to the fun.
From King's County Library Book Talk
IMHO, Being Frank by Donna W. Earnhardt is frankly quite funny! Andrea Castellani's bold and colorful illustrations would make this a
great read-aloud choice for young children, especially those in grades K-2.
From City Book Review
"...Being Frank is laugh-out-loud funny. The well-named characters and their true-to-life foibles could describe many of the people we
know. The awkward situations in which they find themselves—being pulled over for a speeding ticket or asked an opinion about a very ugly
hat—are humorous in their accuracy. The cartoonish illustrations add to the fun. When Grandpa tries Mr. Pickles’ overly spicy relish, for
example, flames shoot of his mouth, his hair stands on end, and he drinks water straight from the hose. Being Frank teaches a lesson with
humor and sincerity, making it a fun read for everyone."
From 3rd Grade Reading
Third graders will appreciate the honesty of Frank regarding situations he finds himself in and will chuckle at the responses and illustrations.
The story is a great read aloud for children who often don’t understand that there are tactful ways to approach and make comments to
others without hurting someone’s feelings.
From the Michigan Reading Journal, September 2012
“This cute and captivating story demonstrates to kids how being brutally honest isn’t always necessary…. Follow Frank as he learns the
balancing act of finding tactful ways to tell the truth in this relatable and comical tale. Earnhardt’s book is a thoughtful approach in teaching
kids to always stay honest, but to be mindful of emotions and soften their approach.”
From Jan Fields at MyShelf
Frank is a little boy who believes honesty is always the best policy, so he says whatever comes to mind. But Frank's subjective observations
soon have everyone mad at him and he isn't sure why. Frank turns to his grandfather, who has a history of brutal frankness himself. Grampa
Ernest soon shows Frank how to temper his subjectivity with kindness. I've known a few adults (including myself at times) who could benefit
from Grampa Ernest's wisdom! The bright, over-the-top illustrations do a great job of showing just how annoyed everyone becomes with
Frank's bluntness. A cute, quirky reminder for everyone that honesty and kindness can go hand in hand.
From Good Reads with Ronna
I just finished having a conversation with my son about not needing to tell people everything that you are thinking when I happened to pick up
Being Frank ($16.95. Flashlight Press, ages 4-8) written by Donna Earnhardt and illustrated by Andrea Castellani. With its quirky vintage
looking artwork and its big sense of humor, this new picture book is absolutely perfect for helping school-aged children grasp the subtle
nuances of truth telling.
After hurting his friends’ feelings one time too many because of his credo “Honesty is the best policy,” young Frank seeks out his grandpa for
some advice. Fortunately for Frank, Grandpa Earnest has mastered the fine art of tactfulness and teaches his grandson exactly what it takes
to share one’s opinion without hurting someone’s feelings. Not so easy, true. But it can be done. For example, when Mrs. Peacock walks by
displaying her extravagantly plumaged new hat and asks Earnest if he likes it, he knows just what to say. “… there are an awful lot of flowers
up there. But my favorite is the purple one in the middle.”
So when Mr. Wiggins, school principal and toupee wearer dances at the school carnival what does the formerly insultingly honest lad say? “I
see you have two left feet, sir?” NO! Not the new and improved Frank. “Impressive spins, sir!” remarks Frank. There are smiles and
laughter all around that afternoon when, rather than repeat to Dotty that her freckles remind him of the Big Dipper, Frank tells his friend, “I
like dots better than squares.” Clearly Grandpa’s lesson that frankness is best served with more sugar and less pepper has left a lasting, and
sweet impression. Kids will agree the book has just the right amount of all the best picture book ingredients to make this one a keeper: great
art, funny character names, clear and concise language and an important message about honesty. To leave a great taste in the mouth, serve
carefully measured amounts.
From Miss Laurie Found a Story!
How often have you experienced the precocious and sometimes embarrassing "out of the mouths of babes" moments? This is a book that is
loads of fun for both children and adults, while teaching the meaning and necessity of tact... Andrea Castellani's illustrations are brilliant and
add to the fun.
From Kid Lit Reviews
Kids and parents will like everything about this book. The message is clear, there is lots of humor—including in the illustrations—and the
advice from grandpa is great advice that we can all use...Being Frank is a good book for not only those kids who always tell the truth —
even when it hurts— but also for those that do not like to tell the truth.
From Mommy Secrets blog
My 10 year old son and I just read a delightful new children’s book, titled “Being Frank”. It was written by Donna Earnhardt and illustrated
by Andrea Castellani. It is about a little boy who shares his opinions SO honestly that it hurts feelings and relationships.
The book has a great message for adults training children with a knack for being a bit too frank. This was a BIG struggle for my daughter at
age 4. I vividly (and with horror) remember her loudly sharing in front of the waiter “Mommy, he’s really fat.”, and in front of a woman at
the pool, “Mommy, she’s not modest.”. And my 7-year old son told me last month, “You’re not good at telling jokes mom, you’re not very
funny. You should just stick to talking.” All true, but definitely not shared with grace!
Earnhardt offers a lovely and humorous way to talk with young children about being respectful and thoughtful while also being honest. She
shares great examples of the good and bad ways to express your honest opinions.
Daniel, age 10, says, “I like the book. It teaches you how to tell the truth, and it’s really funny.”
This is a good resource for counselors to use in class. It’s good for parents and grandparents to read to children ages 4-8, and possibly
even with middle school children. The website also has creative activity downloads to further enhance the lessons.
From Jennifer Rumberger's Perfect Picture Book Friday
I just love that Frank goes to his grandpa for advice – how cool is that? I don’t want to spill the beans by saying if the advice helps or not,
but let me just say that this book makes me chuckle and the illustrations are the perfect wacky fit. The lesson Frank learns is appropriate for
kids AND adults!
From Flying Off My Bookshelf blog
A little discussion with his grandfather helps Frank learn about the difference between honesty and tact and how to still tell the truth without
hurting people's feelings.... Flashlight Press does a good job of creating picture books with messages that aren't too heavy-handed. Perky
digital illustrations and funny details will make this popular with parents who want to teach their kids the difference between honesty and tact.
From Barbara Gruener on Sunny Days in Second Grade blog
Frank is an elementary student who hasn't quite learned yet that 'you get more flies with honey.' In fact, he lives so strictly guided by 'honesty
is the best policy,' that his truth is often unkind and hurts the feelings of those he loves. Spewing his Frank observations, this little truth sleuth
so upsets people in his world that he himself isn't happy anymore. When he goes for advice, it's Grandpa Ernest who teaches him how to
filter his Frank thoughts and sprinkle the truth with tenderness.
This newcomer is rich with literary treasures. Analyze the characters' names. Why did the author pick Zaroma for the teacher who needs
a breath mint? Why is the Grandfather's name Ernest? What about Frank's singing friend Carol? And his freckled friend Dotty?
What other examples of names-that-fit can they find in this text? Talk about axioms. What is an axiom and what example(s) can they find in
the book? What other axioms do they know?
Finally, have them talk or write about a time when they had to cushion the truth with a little compassion and care. Check out this book and
enjoy Being Frank!
From Momma's Bacon blog
"The illustrations are hilarious and for those with little ones, this story will definitely make you laugh out loud at how unfiltered our children can
be at their young age. Great read!"
From Polilla Writes blog
"… a "must have" beautifully illustrated storybook with a moral presented in an entertaining way….believable and entertaining for children…
a wonderful book to add to your bookshelf."
From Books That Heal Kids blog
"When I get good teacher feedback, I know I've got a great one on my shelf. This is a social skills WINNER. Being Frank teaches kids the
importance of THINKING before they speak…. Frank had a big impact on our students…. This book has breathed new life into some of
my social skills lessons. It is a MUST."
From Kid's Imagination Train
"This is a great picture book with a wonderful message for kids…. The illustrations are unique, animated and colorful. They express the
emotion of the story extremely well."
From Pixie Dust Healing blog
I feel this book could be really helpful to Asperger kids. I don't think that's where the authors were going when they created the book but
it's what I see when I read it. It helps explain how that "frank", comment, while honest and factual might not get you the result you're looking
for. Frank isn't encouraged to lie, rather he becomes aware of how he could pick an honest fact that could keep both his integrity and the
other person's feelings intact. Hmm... Sounds like balance to me. Maybe we could all use a bit of that.
Peek inside by clicking the cover