Family Ties: The Theory, Practice, and Destructive Properties of Relatives (Paperback)

Family fun takes center stage in three-time Newbery Honor winner Gary Paulsen's hilarious novel for middle-school boys. Kevin Spencer is the glue that holds his family together. When his wacky relatives decide to have a double wedding in the backyard, Kevin takes charge. Planning two weddings is a great way to impress his girlfriend, Tina Zabinski, the Most Beautiful and Best-Smelling Girl in the World.
But as more and more relatives come to stay, things spiral out of control. Tying the knot has Kevin tied up in knots in this laugh-out-loud story.
"When it comes to telling funny stories about boys, no one surpasses Paulsen."--Booklist
"[Paulsen is] one of the best-loved writers alive."--The New York Times

Praise for Family Ties
"Kevin seems to truly have his heart in the right place as he tries to bring order to the disparate parts [of his family] and restore some missing familial affection."--Kirkus Reviews

"The Spencers may not be a conventionally perfect family, but by the end of the novel it is clear that, despite their oddball antics, they are a loving one. Fans of the series and new readers will enjoy this offering."--School Library Journal

"[A] goofy, rollicking ride."--The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books