Synopsis
A twelve-year-old boy named Moose moves to Alcatraz Island in 1935 when guards' families were housed there, and has to contend with his extraordinary new environment in addition to life with his autistic sister.

Twelve-year-old Moose Flannagan and his family relocate to Alcatraz Island after his father takes a job as a guard at the infamous prison. However, the Flannagans soon discover that living on the relatively isolated island brings out the worst in their family dynamics--especially in terms of how they deal with the fact that Moose's older sister, Natalie, is autistic. Moose's life is further complicated by his relationship with Piper, the irresistible daughter of the prison's warden. A 2005 Newbery Honor Book.

Details
Publication Date:	2006-04-20
Edition Description:	Reprint

Size
Length:	228 pages
Height:	7.8 in
Width:	5.0 in
Thickness:	0.8 in
Weight:	6.4 oz

Publisher's Note
A twelve-year-old boy named Moose moves to Alcatraz Island in 1935 when guards' families were housed there, and has to contend with his extraordinary new environment in addition to life with his autistic sister Natalie. A Newbery Honor Book & ALA Notable Book. Reprint. Jr Lib Guild & Children's BOMC.

Industry Reviews
"Choldenko captures the tense, nuanced family dynamics touched off by Natalie's disability as skillfully as she handles the mystique of Alcatraz and the exchanges between Moose and his friends. Fast-paced and memorable."
Publishers Weekly (02/02/2004)

"Choldenko's pacing is exquisite, balancing the tense family dynamics alongside the often-humorous and riveting school story of peer pressure and friendship. Fascinating setting as a metaphor for Moose's own imprisonment and enabling some hysterically funny scenes, but a great read no matter where it takes place."
Kirkus (03/01/2004)

"[T]he unusual setting and authentic portrayal of a kid torn between family loyalty and a desire for independence make this a satisfying and compelling read."
Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books - Deborah Stevenson (03/01/2004)