Frankie and Amelia

Written by Cammie McGovern

Book #2 in the Chester and Gus series

A cat and a service dog team up to help a girl in need.

4.1/5 Goodreads · 290 ratings

240 pages· 46,593 words· Est. 6.5 hour read

$16.99Save 6%

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Bookroo's summary

Franklin, a stray cat, finds an unlikely friend in Chester, a service dog. Chester introduces Franklin to Amelia, a girl who loves cats but struggles with people. When Amelia faces trouble at school, Franklin is determined to help her, despite not knowing how. This touching tale explores the deep bond between animals and humans, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of a neurodivergent girl. Can Franklin find a way to support the girl who has given him so much?

From the publisher

A heartfelt companion novel to the critically acclaimed Chester and Gus about inclusivity, autism, friendship, and family, perfect for fans of Sara Pennypacker and Kate DiCamillo. After being separated from his family, Franklin becomes an independent cat, until he meets a goofy dog named Chester. Chester is a service dog to his person, a boy named Gus, and Chester knows just the girl to be Franklin’s person–Gus’s classmate, Amelia. Amelia loves cats, but has a harder time with people. Franklin understands her, though, and sees how much they have in common. When Amelia gets into some trouble at school, Franklin wants to help the girl who’s done so much to help him. He’s not sure how, yet, but he’s determined to try. This sweet and moving novel demonstrates how powerful the bond between pets and people can be, while thoughtfully depicting a neurodivergent tween’s experience.

At a glance

Format: Hardcover
Pages: 240
Words: 46,593
Reading age: 8–12
Audience: Middle Grade

Themes & topics

Books about friendship Books about autism Books about pets Books about animals Books about cats

For the grown-ups

The parent guide

What families may want to know

Every family reads differently. These are the concepts our editors noticed in this book — worth seeking out for some readers, worth knowing about for others. The list isn't exhaustive, but it's a spoiler-light head start.

Serious Subject Matter

This book includes detailed and long descriptions of how several characters with autism and anxiety think and feel. It also includes a divorce and descriptions of its emotion affect on a child with autism.

For readers who can't stop at one