• Age: 7 to 10
• Grade: 2 to 5
• Reading age: 7 to 10

A new early chapter book series starring a lovable vampire who's just trying to fit in.

Frankie D and his family have just moved from Transylvania, looking for a fresh start. Where Frankie is from, the school day began at midnight and ended at dawn. Now in America, Frankie and his family must adjust their sleep schedule, train to be out in the sun, and strictly adhere to a vegan, zero-blood diet. Not only that, Frankie has to navigate school as the “new kid” and keep his vampire identity secret from other humans. A tall order for a deathly pale, fanged fourth-grader with a three-legged wolf as a pet!

Brian and Sally Dutra's entertaining series offers a whole new take on what it means to be an outsider. With so many playful twists on vampire tropes, a compelling plot (with a cliffhanger ending!) and loads of deadpan humor, this book is sure to have enormous appeal for early readers. Tiffani Brown's black-and-white illustrations on every spread bring just the right amount of vampire creepiness to the story, tempered by just the right amount of humor. Frankie's open nature and kindness toward others is endearing, and his difficulties trying to navigate a new life while still being true to himself will be relatable to all children. The story highlights important themes of friendship, family, dealing with bullies and adjusting to a new place. It also offers terrific character education lessons on adaptability, initiative and empathy.

Brian and Sally Dutra are a husband and wife writing team with a combined background of improvisational comedy, fiction writing and screenwriting. They live in Portland, Oregon.

Sally Dutra's profile page

Brian and Sally Dutra are a husband and wife writing team with a combined background of improvisational comedy, fiction writing and screenwriting. They live in Portland, Oregon.

Brian Dutra's profile page

Tiffani Brown is a design artist and illustrator based near Toronto, Ontario.

Tiffani Brown's profile page

... [a] witty and whimsical early chapter book series launch ... Frankie is a fang-tastic protagonist ...

Publishers Weekly

... a book about friendship, family, and making connections, while recognizing and embracing differences between people.

The Quebec Library Association (ABQLA)

For kids hungry for a wholesome vampire story without the gore.

Kirkus Reviews