Let Me be Frank with You: A Frank Bascombe Book

**Return to the World of Frank Bascombe with Richard Ford's *Let Me Be Frank with You: A Frank Bascombe Book*** Revisit the poignant, insightful, and often hilarious world of Frank Bascombe in Richard Ford's *Let Me Be Frank with You*, a collection of four interconnected narratives that explore life's complexities in the wake of Hurricane Sandy. This masterful work returns readers to the iconic character first introduced in *The Sportswriter*, a Pulitzer Prize and PEN/Faulkner Award winner, *Independence Day*, and *The Lay of the Land*. Richard Ford, considered one of America's greatest living writers, once again delves into the heart of the American experience through the eyes of Frank Bascombe. In this latest installment, Bascombe navigates a landscape both physically and emotionally scarred by the devastating hurricane. Ford doesn't merely recount events; he uses the aftermath of the storm as a backdrop to explore deeper themes of loss, resilience, empathy, and the search for meaning in a world seemingly unmoored. *Let Me Be Frank with You* comprises four distinct yet interwoven stories: * **"Frankly, Honey":** A former resident returns to Bascombe's town, seeking closure in the ruins of his former home after having purchased his home from Bascombe many years before. * **"Everything Could Be Worse":** A former student, clearly deranged, visits Bascombe in a state of despair, threatening the safety of Bascombe's environment. * **"The New Normal":** A friend is hospital-bound. Bascombe visits, and discusses the aftermath of the storm with his friend's Asian-American nurse. * **"Deaths of Others":** Bascombe's ex-wife is back in his life and wants to discuss their son's death. Ford's writing is as sharp and insightful as ever. He captures the nuances of human interaction with a keen eye for detail and a gift for dialogue that is both authentic and captivating. Bascombe's voice, at once cynical and compassionate, offers a unique perspective on the challenges and absurdities of modern life. He's flawed, opinionated, and undeniably human, making him a character that resonates deeply with readers. *Let Me Be Frank with You* is more than just a sequel; it's a powerful and moving exploration of contemporary America. It's a testament to Ford's skill as a storyteller and his ability to create characters that stay with you long after you've finished reading. A must-read for fans of Richard Ford and anyone seeking a thoughtful and engaging portrayal of life in the 21st century. This paperback edition, published by Bloomsbury in 2015, offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Frank Bascombe. With 240 pages of brilliant prose, this book is a worthwhile addition to any literary collection.