Save the Date

Set during a single weekend, Matson’s (Since You’ve Been Gone) latest novel is full of appealing elements: the promise of a sister’s wedding; a big, close-knit family; a mother who draws a famous comic strip; an estranged brother, who’s returned for the big event; and plenty of unexpected guests, all packed under the Grant family roof. In a madcap series of events and in lightning-quick dialogue among family members, Matson explores absolutely everything that could go wrong under the circumstances. Protagonist Charlie narrates the weekend’s ups and downs, handling two potential suitors along the way, but neither romance quite comes together amid the constant chaos. As the wedding fails stack up (the wedding planner disappears, as does a tuxedo, and the house alarm keeps going off), Matson introduces more emotionally resonant events impacting the family. There are no perfect weddings, or perfect families, Matson suggests in this romantic comedy of errors. Ages 12–up. [em]Agent: Emily van Beek, Folio Literary Management. (June) [/em]