This type of book is one that I would have really enjoyed in middle school. I don't read books of literary quality much anymore, because I'd rather read something purely entertaining. This book however, is entertaining as well as of a high literary standard. The last line of the book is enough for me to want to read it even if it was awful.Summary: Moose Flanagan and his family have moved to Alcatraz Island where his dad has taken two jobs. He spends his time trying to stay out of trouble (no thanks to the warden's scheming daughter) and taking care of his autistic sister, Natalie (this is set before anyone knew what autism is). He must deal with school, his sister, and the neglect he feels from his mother.
Other: It is strange. Al Capone is a clearly not a good guy (hence, ending up in Alcatraz) but he is seen as a hero in this story. Even though he does not have a physical presence, he is just as important as any of the characters.
Favorite Parts:
1. Moose and his friends meet Al Capone's mom.
2. Natalie's birthday party, where all of the kids come to celebrate with her, because they actually like her (the whole book, the mom is afraid the kids are taking advantage of her/making fun of her/etc.)
3. Moose tries to contact Al Capone and ask for a favor.
4. The last line of the book... brilliant!!!
Final note: I want to discuss something that will ruin the book if you haven't read it, so I will leave it as a comment. Don't check the comments if you don't want the story SPOILED!!!!
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1 comment:
SPOILER!!!
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Al Capone does his favor for Moose, which is an AWESOME ending for the book. I loved it. However, mobsters work on the favor system. I'd be interested in a follow up of the story, interested to see if Al Capone can do one nice thing for a kid, or if he'll come to collect his favor from Moose.
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