Delightful! The chapters alternated between the human side of the happenings to the dog's point of view. The Franklin family is Mom, Dad, and kids Don and Susan. Dad works for a mining company that may or may not be unsafe and closing---right before Christmas. Son Don worries about his father's safety while also trying to figure out the secret special present his little sister wants Santa to bring her. Their dog, Frank, follows about snooping and helping the family wherever he can. The kids and the situations are all believable (well, except for the dog writing half a book!) and the story unfolds naturally. Aimed at 9-12 year olds, this "more mature" reader enoyed it very much.
*** 1/2 Three and a half stars!
*** 1/2 Three and a half stars!