Description

 Be Frank with Me

Be Frank with Me– Recognized by the American Booksellers Association as an exceptional debut book for adults.

– Acknowledged as the recipient of the prestigious Audie Award for Best Female Narrator.

– Achieved the status of a Los Angeles Times bestseller, indicating its popularity and widespread acclaim.

– Honored by the American Booksellers Association for its outstanding contribution to the adult literary world.

– Celebrated for its exquisite storytelling and outstanding debut in the adult genre.  

Acknowledgment

– Distinguished as the winner of the highly esteemed Audie Award, specifically in the category of Best Female Narrator.

– Garnered significant attention and praise, including it in the Los Angeles Times bestseller list.

– Praised by readers and critics alike for its engaging narrative and compelling characters.

– Recognized as a standout debut work by the American Booksellers Association, highlighting its exceptional quality.

– Commended for the exceptional performance of its female narrator, resulting in the prestigious Audie Award win.

“Delightful you will laugh out loud.”-Slate

In her highly anticipated debut novel, a talented writer showcases her sparkling talent. And delivers an infectious story that will delight readers. Drawing inspiration from beloved literary works such as Eloise, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, and Where’d You Go, Bernadette, this novel combines the spirited charm of Eloise, the poignant psychological quirks of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, and the page-turning spirit of Where’d You Go, Bernadette.

M. M. “Mimi” Banning

The story revolves around the reclusive literary legend, M. M. “Mimi” Banning, who has secluded herself in her luxurious Bel Air mansion for years. However, her life takes a drastic turn when she falls victim to a Bernie Madoff-style Ponzi scheme, leaving her completely broke. With no other option, Mimi is forced to write a new book after decades of silence. To ensure the timely completion of her manuscript, her New York publisher sends an assistant, Alice Whitley, to monitor her progress. Reluctantly, Mimi agrees to the arrangement but sets a few conditions, including no Ivy Leaguers or English majors, the assistant must be a computer whiz, good with kids, and possess qualities like being quiet, discreet, and sane.

Alice Whitley

As Alice steps foot into the Banning mansion, she is immediately put to work as a full-time companion to Frank, Mimi’s eccentric nine-year-old son. Frank is a unique character with the wit of Noel Coward and a wardrobe reminiscent of a 1930s movie star. He stands out from his peers in fourth grade due to his distinctive personality. As Alice spends more time with Frank, she becomes increasingly curious about his father’s identity and the role of Xander, his handsome piano teacher, in the Banning family. Alongside these mysteries, Alice wonders if Mimi will finish writing her book.

Frank

“Be Frank with Me” is a heartwarming and unconventional tale that takes readers into the lives of an exceptional mother and son. Set against the backdrop of Hollywood, the story is filled with countless moments that can only happen in this glamorous city. As Alice becomes more involved in the lives of Mimi and Frank, she finds herself irresistibly drawn into their world, which is both unforgettable and alluring. This novel is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the unexpected connections that can form between people from different walks of life.

Humor

Humor, charm, and unexpected twists. As Alice delves deeper into the world of Mimi and Frank, she discovers the true extent of their eccentricities and the challenges they face in their daily lives. Mimi, with her larger-than-life personality and sharp wit, is a character readers will instantly fall in love with. Her unconventional parenting style and unapologetic honesty make her both endearing and relatable.

Life Challenges

Through her interactions with Alice, Mimi reveals her vulnerabilities and the struggles she has faced as a single mother raising a son who is unlike anyone else. Frank, on the other hand, is a child prodigy with a mind that works in mysterious ways. His intelligence and unique perspective on the world make him a magnetic character. As Alice spends more time with him, she becomes not only his companion but also his confidante.

The Dynamic

Helping him navigate the challenges of school and social interactions. The dynamic between Mimi, Frank, and Alice is at the heart of the novel, as they form an unlikely family unit. Their interactions are filled with humor, warmth, and moments of profound insight. As Alice becomes more entwined in their lives, she begins to question her priorities and what truly matters in life.

“Be Frank with Me” is a story about love, acceptance, and the power of unconventional families. It explores themes of identity, creativity, and the sacrifices we make for the ones we love. With its engaging characters, witty dialogue, and heartfelt moments, this novel is sure to keep the attention of audiences and leave them wanting more.

Critiques

“Julia Claiborne Johnson has struck gold in creating Frank Banning — a one-of-a-kind exasperating, witty and endearing nine-year-old genius who functions as the beating heart of this marvelous book.” — Julie Schumacher, author of Dear Committee Members

“Witty, but never cutesy. Deeply felt, but never sentimental. Peopled with deeply flawed, fully realized characters I cared about… I loved every minute I spent in Julia Claiborne Johnson’s glass house with her cast of dedicated stone-throwers. This one is special—don’t miss it.” — Joshilyn Jackson, New York Times-bestselling author of The Opposite of Everyone

“There’s so much to love about this novel: the hilarious one-liners, the unforgettable characters, the unexpected moments of tenderness, and all the funny, sad, poignant twists and turns this story takes. I lost myself in these pages and you will too.” — John Searles, nationally-bestselling author of Help for the Haunted

Commentaries

“Julia Claiborne Johnson has written an effervescent gem of a novel, expertly balancing on a literary tightrope between lighthearted and heartbreaking. BE FRANK WITH ME is peopled by characters at once utterly unique, and entirely authentic. I may re-read this book just to spend more time with Frank.” — Laura Nicole Diamond, author of Shelter Us: A Novel

Beautifully written, brimming with insight, mystery, and benevolent wit, Julia Johnson had me gripped from the first chapter to the final page of BE FRANK WITH ME.” — Julia Sweeney, author, actress, comedienne

Analyses

“BE FRANK WITH ME is complex, nuanced, detailed, and profound. In other words, funny, in the best, most resonant way. Read it with both eyes because it will delight both the thinky and the feely parts of your brain.” — Dave Foley, comedian and technically, an actor

“What a charmer this book is! From the very first page, I fell hard for Frank, an adorable oddball with an amazing brain, a wardrobe to die for, and a lonely fragility that pierced my heart again and again.” — Marisa de los Santos, New York Times-bestselling author of Love Walked In and The Precious One

Reexamination

“Readers will find themselves enchanted.” — People

“Delightful. You will laugh out loud.” — Slate

“Johnson’s magnificently poignant, funny, and wholly original debut goes beyond page-turner status. Readers will race to the next sentence. And the next. Her charming, flawed, quietly courageous characters, each wonderfully different, demand a second reading while we impatiently await the author’s second work.” — Library Journal (starred review)

“A lot of fun to be had along the way. Sit back…and enjoy the show.” — New York Times Book Review

“Julia Claiborne Johnson ably conjures a quirky cast and a privileged California world. BE FRANK WITH ME is about being an outsider and how differences help others see the world in a new way. Like Frank, this offbeat story has a big heart.” — BookPage

“Johnson’s spare, wry, Salingeresque style evokes those great oddball novels of the past and provides a charming take on the parent-of-challenged-child theme.” — Daily Mail (London)

“Frank Banning may be the most endearing scene-stealer you’ll ever meet in the pages of a book…Johnson proves it’s possible to write a comic novel that, at times, is heartbreaking.” — Richmond Times-Dispatch

“This book has stayed with me since I turned the last page. Frank is one of the most memorable children in contemporary fiction.” — Irish Times

“Simply delightful…A warm and friendly book, with characters you want to get to know.” — Sunday Times (London)

“Hilarious, poignant and full of unexpected gems, BE FRANK WITH ME illuminates the strange ways literature can parallel life, and introduces readers to one of the most charming, lovable and maddening children in fiction.” — Huffington Post

“Witty dialogue, irresistible characters, and a touch of mystery make this sweet debut about a quirky Hollywood family an enjoyable page-turner.” — Booklist

“The curious incident of where’d you go, Salinger.” — Kirkus Reviews

About The Author

 Julia Claiborne Johnson

Julia Claiborne Johnson, acclaimed author of the highly popular novel Be Frank with Me. Which has been recognized as a finalist for the prestigious American Bookseller’s Association Best Debut Novel Award. Hailing from a humble farm in Tennessee, Julia’s journey led her to the bustling streets of New York City. Where she honed her skills while working at renowned publications such as Mademoiselle and Glamour magazines.

Home Life

Currently, she resides in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, alongside her talented husband who is a comedy writer, and their two beloved children. Julia’s diverse experiences and unique perspective undoubtedly contribute to the depth and authenticity of her writing.

Recognition

Julia Claiborne Johnson, a renowned author, has gained immense recognition for her bestselling novel, Be Frank with Me. This remarkable achievement has earned her a spot as a finalist for the esteemed American Bookseller’s Association Best Debut Novel Award. Born and raised on a farm in Tennessee, Julia’s early years were filled with the beauty and simplicity of rural life. However, her passion for literature and writing led her to the bustling metropolis of New York City, where she immersed herself in the world of fashion and journalism.

Pursuing Dreams

Working at prominent magazines such as Mademoiselle and Glamour, Julia refined her skills and developed a keen eye for storytelling.

Be Frank with Me

Julia Claiborne Johnson is a highly acclaimed author. She has intrigued readers worldwide with her bestselling novel, Be Frank with Me. This exceptional literary work has garnered significant recognition, earning Julia a place as a finalist for the prestigious American Bookseller’s Association Best Debut Novel Award. Born and raised on a picturesque farm in Tennessee, Julia’s upbringing instilled in her a deep appreciation for nature and a strong work ethic.

Writing

However, her insatiable curiosity and passion for storytelling led her to the bustling streets of New York City. There, she ventured into a successful career in the publishing industry, working at renowned magazines such as Mademoiselle and Glamour. Currently, Julia resides in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, where she finds inspiration in the diverse culture and creative atmosphere. Living alongside her husband, a talented comedy writer, and their two children, Julia’s life is a testament to the power of following one’s dreams and