Choldenko, Gennifer Al Capone Does My Homework (Book #3) 224 pgs. Dial, 2013. $13.94. Content:
Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content: G; Violence: G.
Like the other
two books in this trilogy, this book is set in the 1930’s on Alcatraz Island. Moose
is just a kid, but he is extremely worried, about a lot of things. First, about his
father, who just got a promotion to Associate Warden for the prison, making him
a target for the prisoners. Second, about the safety of his family, since
someone set their place on fire, but he has no idea who! Third, about his
sister Natalie, who has special needs, and is being blamed for the fire. What a
mess! On top of that, the prisoners are up to something! Can Moose and his
friends solve their problems, get their homework done, and still have some fun?
Al Capone gives him a hint, right on his homework!
This book can
easily function as a read alone, I haven’t read the first two books, and really
enjoyed this story. Students are drawn in by the ‘Al Capone’ on the cover, but
what makes this story so great the skill of the author to create a very real
setting. The interaction of the characters, especially the kids, is incredibly
authentic. The story is multifaceted and oh so real with the responsibility of
caring for a child/sibling who is different and needs extra care. The setting
is unique and full of intrigue. I found myself worrying for this main character!
I think students will love the conclusion to this series.
EL –ESSENTIAL Reviewer:
Stephanie Elementary School Librarian & Author.
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