For this week’s middle grade book, I returned to one of my favorite middle grade series: Tales from Alcatraz.
Summary
Al Capone Throws Me A Curve is book four in the Tales from Alcatraz Series. The Flanagans, like the other families of Alcatraz guards live on Alcatraz. Moose, the narrator, always tries to do what is right, but keeps getting mixed up in schemes invented by the warden’s daughter, Piper. When Piper isn’t getting him in trouble, Moose is busy protecting his autistic sister, Natalie.
In this installment the island is getting ready for a visit from the Bureau of Prisons, and Moose’s dad is up for a promotion. Moose is about to enter high school, and his main focus is getting on the baseball team. Natalie is turning seventeen and this is creating new dangers for her living on an island of convicts. If keeping her safe isn’t difficult enough for Moose, Piper is back and sneakier (and prettier) than ever.
My Thoughts
Al Capone Does My Shirts is one of my absolute favorite middle grade books. I don’t love the sequels as much, but they are still great reads. This is the first one I’ve read since visiting Alcatraz a couple of years ago on vacation. While the kids would never have actually been able to get into the cell house or have interactions with Al Capone, the rules of the prison are very true to real life.
I really enjoyed the way the characters have matured in this series but stayed true to themselves. Moose is still trying to take care of everything. Piper is trying to be good but can’t always fight her sneaky impulses. Natalie is making eye contact but is still very young for her age. Mrs. Flanagan is making an effort to be more understanding of Moose’s feelings, but still struggles with seeing Natalie clearly.
What I love most about this series is the way Moose interacts with Natalie. Even though he often resents the responsibilities that come from having a sister with a disability, it is obvious he loves and understands Natalie. It also shows how kids are often more accepting than adults.
I would recommend reading this series in order. There is enough humor, baseball and adventure to keep a young reader interested while still giving touching life messages.