Korman, Gordon. Son of the Mob. © 2003.  (Fiction)

Vince Luca’s life is always being complicated by his father’s choice of careers.  Dad is a mafia boss, and his professional activities overlap into his home life too often for Vince’s comfort, especially since he’s already decided not to follow in his father’s footsteps.

The elder Mr. Luca’s career means that Vince has some pretty nice perks—perks he doesn’t necessarily want—like a new Porsche that gets him arrested, and special treatment on the football field. Mr. Luca’s job also means that the family’s house is bugged by the FBI. Sensitive conversations must be held in whispers in the basement, and the Lucas must be conscious of everything that is said and done in their home, lest they tip off the Feds and end up in jail.

Vince manages to stay out of the family business without much complaint from his father or the members of the mob—Vince’s older brother is already following his father’s footsteps, so Vince feels somewhat relieved of the legacy burden.  But when his brother’s activities nearly get him killed, he makes an even more powerful vow to avoid any affiliation with underground crime, and he proceeds to attempt the life of a normal teenager.

When he meets Kendra, Vince is certain that having her in his life will improve its chances of being normal…until he finds out that she is the daughter of an FBI agent…and that her father happens to be the very agent  who is bugging the Luca family home.

Gordan Korman has created another funny, likeable character and a fun, unique parody of Romeo and Juliet.  Perfect for fans of Daniel Pinkwater, Jerry Spinelli, Gary Paulsen, and Paul Zindel.