He is the only boy in his entire town—so forget about playing soccer.
His best friends are two pet chickens.
His family owns the world's only gas station/coffee house—their pies are to die for, but profits are in the hole.
Criminal instincts run in his family—his sister is a mastermind-in-training, and the tax men are after his father for questioning.
And one more small thing about nine-year-old Dylan—the crime of the century has just fallen into his lap.
With the same easy mix of wit, warmth, and wonder that made his debut novel, "Millions," an award-winning international bestseller, Frank Cottrell Boyce tells the story of a boy who reminds an entire town of the power of art.
My Two Cents: Like all of Boyce's books, Framed is heartfelt and hilarious. There's a great deal of art in this distinctly British book, but it will absolutely appeal to boys because of all the humor, hijinks, and adventure. Such a clever, distinctive, memorable book.
Grade Level: 3-7
Additional Resources:
- Take a look at the paintings in the National Gallery, especially the ones mentioned in the book (and listed on the National Gallery's special Framed page.)
- Read more about the characters in Dylan's beloved Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and their famous artists they're named after: Raphael, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Leonardo
- Check out this slideshow of famous art heists throughout history (including some that are mentioned in this book.)
- Learn a little about Malawi, where Dylan's sort-of-pen-pal George lives.
- Check out this activity where kids can make their own tempera paint from real eggs.
- See a quarry and read about Snowdonia National Park or look at photos of Wales to really get a feel for where Framed took place.
- Watch an episode of Will Cwac Cwac (but this one's in English).
- Frank Cottrell Boyce's other books, especially Millions and Cosmic
- Another story with great voice, mystery, and missing parents: Three Times Lucky by Sheila Turnage
- Another family story featuring a main character who gets into trouble and doesn't always tell the truth: Notes from a Liar and Her Dog by Gennifer Choldenko
- Another book about a boy who means well but causes a lot of trouble: Joey Pigza Loses Control by Jack Gantos
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