Dear Frankie

Frankie Morrison, his mother Lizzie, and grandmother Nell relocate once again, with Lizzie assuring Frankie that this will be their last move. Frankie remains skeptical of her promise, reflecting on past relocations.

As they settle into their new home, we learn that Frankie is deaf. This aspect greatly affects his interactions and experiences, highlighting the challenges he faces in navigating a world that often overlooks his condition.

Frankie writes letters to his absent father, Petty Officer Davey Morrison, who is away on the *Accra*. These letters serve as a vital emotional outlet for Frankie, even though he remains unaware that most are never sent.

The absence of Frankie's father leaves a significant emotional void in their lives. A personal ad concerning Lizzie adds an extra layer of apprehension, exacerbating the feelings of abandonment within the family.

Upon starting at his new school, Frankie is subjected to bullying, particularly from a boy named Ricky Munroe. Despite the torment, Frankie finds support in Catriona, a classmate who stands by him during these tough times.

Ricky Munroe challenges Frankie to a bet, arrogantly claiming that Frankie's father will not appear when the *Accra* docks. This bet heightens the tension and pressure on Frankie as the date approaches.

As the ship's arrival date draws near, Lizzie's emotions spiral, leading her to visit a local pub in hopes of finding solace. Unfortunately, her experience only leaves her feeling more disheartened about their situation.

Desperate for help, Lizzie confides in her friend Marie, who suggests finding a stand-in for Frankie’s father. This idea sets in motion a series of events that will impact their lives significantly.

On the day the *Accra* is set to arrive, Frankie unexpectedly meets the surrogate father that Lizzie arranged. The man surprises Frankie with a book he chose based on Frankie's heartfelt letters, leading to an emotional connection.

After enjoying football tryouts, Frankie and Ricky decide to extend their time with the surrogate father, leading to a memorable day of bonding by the harbor. Initially hesitant, Lizzie comes to appreciate this fleeting familial connection.

While spending time together, Lizzie confesses the painful truth about Frankie's deafness, revealing that it resulted from abuse inflicted by his biological father. This moment brings the family's struggles to the forefront.

Lizzie confronts her painful past by reaching out to her sister-in-law and visiting her ailing husband, Davey, in the hospital. While he wishes to see Frankie, Lizzie's refusal displays her deep-seated anger and unresolved issues.

After Davey passes away, Lizzie must break the heartbreaking news to Frankie. Struggling with grief, she also decides to stop the payments for the post office box that holds Frankie's letters.

While at the post office, Lizzie discovers a final letter from Frankie, addressed to the surrogate father. This discovery reveals Frankie's understanding that his 'real Da' is now gone, culminating in a poignant moment of acceptance.