Engagement:
Genre:
Historical Fiction
Published:
2004
Page Count:
225
Where to Buy:
Al Capone Does My Shirts
Al Capone
#
1
Content Ratings
Mild Themes
The novel addresses a sister's developmental differences—depicted in ways consistent with autism—the emotional toll on a family, the meaning of belonging, and sibling devotion with honesty and compassion.
No Violence
There is no direct violence; the presence of notorious criminals is more atmospheric backdrop than active threat.
Synopsis
In 1935, twelve-year-old Moose Flanagan moves to Alcatraz Island when his father takes a job as a guard and his family hopes the island's proximity to San Francisco will allow his older sister Natalie—who has severe developmental differences—to attend a special school. A warm, funny, and moving historical novel about family, difference, and what it means to be a good sibling. A Newbery Honor book.