Franklin and the Fabulous Five

In this joyful celebration of soul, style, and self-expression, from the award‑winning author of Cookies & Milk, Franklin has to decide if he wants to chase his own dreams or his father’s dreams for the family band on a road-trip romp to Motown.

It’s 1964, and Franklin and the Fabulous 5ive are going to be the next BIG THING! With plenty of musical talent and their dad’s strict discipline, the Freeman family band just might have a shot at fame and fortune. And fortune…they could really use.

The only problem? While his family fixates on the Fabulous 5ive sound, lead singer Franklin is more interested in the band’s style. But there’s no room for distractions when they set out on a make-or-break trip playing shows across the country, from Houston to Detroit, where an audition at the Motown Records awaits. Franklin longs to bring his fashion designs into the spotlight, but as mishaps mount and the Freemans confront dangers on the road, Franklin’s dreams—and the journey itself—begin to unravel.

With inspiration from real-life famous figures, surprising new friends, and a dazzlingly eccentric mentor, can Franklin find a way to support his family while staying true to himself? 

• Praise for Cookies & Milk
  
  A Junior Library Guild Selection
  An NAACP Image Award winner for Outstanding Literary Work - Youth/Teens
  
  "Shawn Amos has written a beautiful story of family and music, of growing up and having adventures, of business building and character building, that is at once very specific and universal. I love Cookies and Milk as much as I love cookies and milk."
  Lisa See, New York Times bestselling and award winning author of Snow Flower and the Secret Fan and Shanghai Girls
• "Full of heart and humor….A wholesome story that bridges generations."
  Kirkus
• "Offbeat and enchanting. The humorous narration is breezy and conversational …there are also exquisite descriptions of musical transcendence, an uplifting community, and a gorgeous father-son relationship that evolves and deepens throughout. A sweet treat with a warm center."
  Booklist
• "Amos’s energetic prose encourages pride in one's culture. Championing interpersonal bonds, be they found family or blood relatives, the narrative also emphasizes unconditional love and one community’s impact on a boy shaping his identity."
  Publishers Weekly
• "Sets a fantastic scene…. Music, family dynamics, friends, and cookies are all delivered with imagery so strong that readers will taste those cookies."
  School Library Journal