Review Detail

Reader reviewed by Cheryl

This is a piece of historical fiction that is definately worth reading. It describes the life of the Malone family who move to the infamous Alcatraz prison. The family consists of a Dad, Mom, Moose (nicknamed because the size of his body and heart), and Natalie (who has some sort of autism and has, according to mom, been perpetually 9 for many years). The move serves 2 primary purposes: Dad got a job as a prison guard there, and, more importantly, Natalie can hopefully be admitted to a special school that Mom hopes will make her better. Unfortunately, neither of these purposes are particularly beneficial to Moose.

Moose is reminded daily of the lore of Alcatraz's famous inmates by his classmates back on the mainland and by the warden's mischevious daughter on the lonely rock. Eventually, Natalie's problems intensify and force Moose to seek help from the most unlikely source.

This story is told in a charming, funny, yet sensitive way. History is seamlessly integrated with the fictional story which makes for a fun and informative read.

I would caution readers that the pace of this book slows WAY down in the middle of the book for about 3-4 chapters. However, if you can get through those chapters, the ending is extremely satisfying.

This is a good read for 10 and up.