Frank A Novel Author:Milton Laikin In Milton Laikin's debut novel, he weaves a cautionary tale describing how self-pity and jealousy brought about the demise of one young man's American Dream. In the early part of the twentieth century, Frank and his family have immigrated to New York City from Odessa, Russia, fleeing the persecution of the czar and hoping to make a better life ... more »for themselves. Before long, he has his own fur shop and begins to venture into real estate developing as well, accumulating considerable wealth. He marries the girl of his dreams, Rose, and the couple soon have three small children. Unfortunately, while on a Fourth of July weekend family outing to Coney Island, Frank accidentally steps on a rusty nail. When he fails to properly attend to the injury, gangrene sets in and amputation becomes necessary. Consumed with self-pity, Frank becomes convinced that Rose is cheating on him. Are Frank's suspicions justified? And, if so, is he in any way responsible? These are just two of the questions raised as the reader becomes engrossed in this suspenseful story that is hear-breaking and heart-warming. For while Frank's lesson concerning the meaninglessness of material wealth is indeed painful to watch, the scenes between Frank and his family-particularly those with favorite brother Charley-remind one of the importance of the ties that bind.« less