Alcatraz Prison-1935

Al Capone Does My Shirts
Gennifer Choldenko

Summary:

     It is 1935, and Moose Flanigan and his family move from Santa Monica to Alcatraz Island when Moose's father is hired as an electrician and a security guard.  His sister, Natalie, has a severe form of Autism and is slated to attend a special school is San Francisco.  After only two days, Natalie is kicked out of her special school.  

     Now, Moose must balance watching Natalie, trying to make friends in his new school, and dealing with an overly zealous Warden's daughter who is constantly scheming plots that involve the dangerous criminals of Alcatraz Island.  

Teaching Tips:

1) This book really was a diamond in the rough for me.  I went into it expecting a story about criminals and Alcatraz and instead found a beautiful tale of a family.  I found myself fascinated with how Autistic children were treated in 1935.  This book would is a great piece of literature for students who have had experience with classmates who have Autism.  

2) The author's note at the end of the story provides great insight by Gennifer Choldenko.  Students should enjoy hearing about what aspects of the story are fact, and which parts are fiction.  

3) If students enjoy this story, there are two more books in the series that they might be interested in reading; Al Capone Shines My Shoes, and Al Capone Does My Homework.  

Additional Resources: