Son of the Mob

Gordon Korman

Hyperion, New York, 2002

Genres: Humor, Family, Mystery

Reading Level: Young Adult (14-18)

Pages: 262

Summary:

Vince is the son of a powerful mob boss and his life is anything but normal. His first date he finds a kidnapped person in his trunk, his father is a suspect in a murder case, and Vince is dating the FBI Agent's daughter. This book is about a kid who is trying to find out who he is and whether he wants to join into the "family business". Can he be a Luca and date the enemies daughter at the same time?

Reaction:

I liked this book, though it is a guy book. The main character is amusing as he deals with his best friend Alex and his girl friend, and his dealings with his family are interesting, but it wasn't as gripping as it could have been. I think that it would be perfect for a male teen who is 14-16, but much older than that they might think it's lame. Vince's relationship with his girlfriend was little too much, not gross, so much as dumb, but perhaps that would appeal to a younger age.

Cautionary Note: Not much swearing, but there's drinking, crime, violence, and lots of kissing. Overall, a pretty clean book for the subject matter.