Part of MBPs line of illustrated fiction, this novel uses images and text to explore the fate of the family in contemporary America. For years, the Hungates and the Harrisons have coexisted peacefully in the suburbs of New York. But when the patriarch of one family dies, the survivors face a stark imperative: adapt or face certain extinction. In 63 entries and an accompanying website, A Field Guide to the North American Family offers a collaborative portrait of two fictional specimens. Many photographers contributed this editions lavish illustrations via afieldguide.com, an ongoing, networked internet community. Though the novels entries can be read straight through, alphabetical headings and crossreferenced design also enable readers to move through the narrative as they see fit. Part fiction, part reference work, part photo essay, Field Guide invites readers and participants to consider the state of the family... and to explore the future of the book.