I opened the door and was surprised to see Uncle Gary standing on the front steps.
-- Greg (Section 1 paragraph 3)

Importance: In a novel full of the unexpected, Greg’s first surprise is to see Uncle Gary at his front door early one morning. Uncle Gary, after a failed business venture using some of Frank’s money, needs a place to stay – but doesn’t tell anyone this at first. Yet when Frank comes downstairs, he is immediately suspicious of what his younger brother could want.

Mom told Dad he should do it because Uncle Gary is his brother and family members should always help each other out.
-- Greg (Section 2 paragraph 1)

Importance: Gary’s failed business venture was not possible without a loan from Frank. Frank knows Gary is horrible with money, and even worse at paying people back. While he is reluctant to lend money, his wife insists he give money to Gary, because Gary is family. Here...