This gem of a novel takes place in Pittsburgh in 1952. Franny Katzenback, while recovering from polio, reads and falls in love with the brand-new book "Charlotte s Web." Bored and lonely and yearning for a Charlotte of her own, Franny starts up a correspondence with an eloquent flea named Fleabrain who lives on her dog s tail. While Franny struggles with physical therapy and feeling left out of her formerly active neighborhood life, Fleabrain is there to take her on adventures based on his extensive reading. It s a touching, funny story set in the recent past, told with Rocklin s signature wit and thoughtfulness.
Awards
Bank Street Children's Books "Best Books of the Year," Fiction Ages 9-12
Sydney Taylor Notable Book for Older Readers
Praise for "Fleabrain Loves Franny"
"Heartwarming and endlessly funny, Fleabrain Loves Franny will delight readers of all ages. Rocklin s sharp wit and exuberant writing style are refreshing. This book is not to be missed."
--"VOYA"
"Franny a compassionate, thoughtful and sympathetic protagonist is believably erratic in her emotions and reflections on her illness and its effects on her previously carefree life."
--"Publishers Weekly
""Rocklin perfectly captures the era of 1952 and creates a sympathetic, realistic character in Franny, who begins to accept her condition, rejoin her friends and even protest her school s inaccessibility."
--"Kirkus Reviews"
"Comedic and philosophical, readers will find multiple levels to enjoy."
--"School Library Journal"
"