Review: Frankie D, Vegan Vampire

Frankie and his family have moved to America where the sun shines and he has the opportunity to attend fourth grade with human children. “Frankie D, Vegan Vampire” is all about trying to fit in while staying true to yourself and your values. Sally and Brian Dutra do an excellent job of building Frankie’s awkward, yet sincere personality as he learns to navigate the human world without giving away his true identity.

This story really is a delight. There is, of course, a nemesis (is he a troll or just a truculent human child?). Frankie’s earnestness earns him friends with kids who often see themselves as being on the outside. This story is also about different kinds of families and how kids feel about their families. It can be heavy, but also uplifting.

This book is great for kids who feel different or maybe view their family as eccentric. Even though Frankie is a vampire, there is no vampire type violence or threat of violence (after all, Frankie and his family have given up the traditional vampire diet to eat a vegan diet).

I received an advance review copy from NetGalley and Kids Can Press for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.