Franky Furbo

by William Wharton

Book Overview

Set in a remote Italian village, this novel focuses on William Wiley and his family as they separate his fantasy about a magical fox from reality by disproving the existence of Franky. The author also... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0805011579
• ISBN13: 9780805011579
• Release Date: October 1989
• Publisher: Henry Holt & Company
• Length: 228 Pages
• Weight: 0.76 lbs.

Customer Reviews

Wharton's own life makes the book even more intriguing

I don't want to repeat the accolades and explanations others have made. Suffice to say, this is a hard book to categorize. It's unusual and combines several genres. Some people might dismiss it as too "out there," but if they're patient they'll be rewarded with a wonderful and unique book full of idealism and mythology.What makes this book especially intriguing, and perhaps will even help explain some of the content, is Wharton's (not his real name) own life. "A Midnight Clear," another book written by Wharton which was also made into an excellent movie, tells the story of an intelligence unit during WW II which "illegally" creates a truce with a nearby German unit. Further research shows that a large portion of "Midnight" is autobiographical. Wharton himself was in an intelligence unit, was disfigured somewhat, and was also classified as a genius by the military. Parts of this history are also shown in "Franky Furbo."Wharton's own beliefs were clearly shown when he left the US to live in France. Apparently, this was due in part to his disillusionment with the United States for its various actions and policies. There's simply not enough space to get into all the details of Wharton's life. I recommend anyone who reads the book to do further research. It certainly helps explain "Franky Furbo" because Wharton shares a lot of Franky's beliefs and experiences. It just makes the story that much more mystical and interesting. A must read for anyone who thinks different or has listened to Lennon's "Imagine" and agreed that we need to get beyond our nationalism and other oppressive beliefs.

Mind Expanding Novel...

This novel is the most impressive work of literature I have read to date. On the surface, it may appear to be a childish book about a talking fox who saves humans from the brink of death and unites enemies in peace, but that does not begin to describe the wonder of this book. It wraps you in a world of peacefulness and idealism; you wish you were there. Then it cements in you a love for the characters and their lives. And finally, in an amazing display of science fiction, romance, and imagination, it smacks you in the face. You will either love this book, or it will make your head hurt and you will not get it at all. In either case, I suppose you'll enjoy the many fonts used to differentiate characters and languages. Ultimately, Franky Furbo is a beautifully flowing book that takes your mind on a rollercoaster of thoughts and imagination. Read it. It's not just about a talking fox.

Make the effort to find this book...publisher reprint it!

I have just finished re-reading this book, the first time for a couple of years and it is even more rewarding this time round. Franky Furbo is a constantly surprising novel with an original take on life and one of the best twists I have ever encountered. Masquerading as a modern fairy tale of sorts you could be forgiven for being put off by this story of a talking fox but this is a very 'adult' book tackling big themes. At the very least you will finish this book impressed by the dexterity of the author and the compexities of the wonderful story, but you may find your view of the world profoundly altered. A beautiful tale/tail!

One of the five best books I've ever read.

Franky Furbo by William Wharton is a truly magnificent book! This fantasy is often sad; at times you may find it disturbing and difficult to read. Please persevere. You will be rewarded with a story which is enlightening and ultimately uplifting. It is a great book to give to friends and family as a special present, if you can find it. Since it is out-of-print, procuring copies can be a challenge, but it is worth the effort.

'Hard to find" Franky's tale will be worth the wait.

"Franky Furbo" begins innocently enough; Wharton paints a landscape and begins to people it. Soon, the book takes an unusual turn. It was a turn that gave me pause; I thought about not going on with the book. I purchased "Franky Furbo" after reading Birdy, Pride, Dad and Scumbler. I considered those books to be gems, and I worried that I would be disappointed in this work. The path the author sets down for the reader to follow genuinely puzzled me, but I love Wharton's books, so I read on. I was entranced. I love Franky's story. It is another Wharton gem.