A Tale from Alcatraz
Written by Gennifer Choldenko
Moose’s dad is the new Assistant Warden of Alcatraz, and with that promotion comes increased danger, starting with someone setting fire to their home. Money is disappearing and reappearing, notes are left in rain gutters, and someone gets attacked with a shiv. Moose’s autistic sister, Natalie, now age 16, plays a big role in this installment and it was satisfying to watch the development and maturation of her character.
This is the third book in a historical fiction series. This final installment takes place in 1936. It is interesting to know that the families of the Alcatraz employees actually lived on the island and had some interaction with the prisoners. There is a lot going on in this story. It was a challenge keeping all the characters straight, and I would only recommend it to higher middle grade readers. I did enjoy reading about the con games and the authors notes at the end.
Review by Terrie Bishop, Academy ParkMedia Center
Rating: ★★★★✩ (4 stars)
Interest Level: 6-9
Author Website: www.choldenko.com
Al Capone Does My Homework
Written by Gennifer Choldenko
Dial Books for Young Readers
212 pages
Release Date: August 20, 2013
ISBN: 9780803734722 (hardcover)
