Framed (Cottrell-Boyce novel) facts for kids

Framed is an exciting children's novel. It was written by Frank Cottrell Boyce. The book came out in 2005. It was very popular and won many awards! It was considered for the Carnegie Medal. It was also a finalist for the Whitbread Children's Book of the Year. The book was even nominated for the Guardian Children's Fiction Prize. In 2007, it was shortlisted for the Blue Peter Book Awards.

The story in Framed is based on a real event. During World War II, important art was hidden away. This happened at the Manod (Cwt-y-Bugail) quarry. This quarry is near Blaenau Ffestiniog in Wales. Art from the National Gallery and the Tate Gallery was stored there to keep it safe.

About the Story

Framed takes place in North Wales. It tells how famous paintings changed the small town of Manod. These paintings came from the National Gallery in London.

Dylan's Life in Manod

Dylan is the only boy in the tiny Welsh town of Manod. His parents run a car garage called Snowdonia Oasis Auto Marvel. When he is not trying to get his sisters to play football, Dylan works at the garage. He is in charge of the petrol log. This means he writes down everyone who comes into Manod. He notes their car, their name, the weather, and even their favorite crisp flavor!

The Mysterious Convoy

One day, a strange group of lorries drives up the misty mountainside. They are heading towards an old, unused mine. Even Dylan is confused by this. Who are these people? What are they trying to hide?

Inspired by History

This story was inspired by a real newspaper article. It described how London's National Gallery treasures were hidden. They were stored in Welsh slate mines during World War II. Once a month, a special painting would be shown in the village. This was to cheer people up. Then, it would go back to London for others to see.

Art's Impact

Framed is a funny and touching story. It shows how art can change lives. It explores the beauty and value of art. The story follows one little boy and his big family. They live in a very small town.

Television Film

Framed was made into a television film. The BBC produced it. The film starred Trevor Eve and Eve Myles. The author of the book, Frank Cottrell Boyce, adapted it for TV. It was first shown on August 31, 2009.

Images for kids

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  First edition (published by HarperCollins)