Al Capone Shines My Shoes: A Tale from Alcatraz, Book 2
By Barbara Lawrence,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Moose's ties to Al Capone deepen in engaging sequel.
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What's the Story?
Set on Alcatraz in 1935, AL CAPONE SHINES MY SHOES, takes place where the first book in the trilogy, Al Capone Does My Shirts, left off. Al Capone has pulled strings to get Moose's autistic sister into a special school. Now Moose has to pay back the famous gangster for the favor. Moose continues to navigate the roads of friendships and girls while trying to be true to his family. The backdrop of the famous prison and gangsters make for an intriguing setting. Although the families do not interact with the harden criminals, the kids do have interactions with "pass-men" -- well-behaved convicts who do work for the families. This leads to excitement as well as danger for Moose and his friends.
Is It Any Good?
Author Gennifer Choldenko has hit a perfect balance with this coming-of-age story set against the historical backdrop of the famous prison with its infamous inmates. Moose's involvement with Al Capone deepens as he now must pay him back for a favor. This and other interactions with "pass-men" keep tensions high and make for an exciting read. A daring escape attempt will keep readers turning the pages. Moose and the other characters are likeable and well drawn.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how girls' looks are perceived by boys. Scout categorizes all girls as either "lookers," "okey-dokeys," or "aunties." How does the way boys view girls affect how girls think of themselves and their body image?
How do you think Al Capone Shines My Shoes compares with the first book in the trilogy?
Have you ever been attracted to someone you don't like? What can you do about those feelings? Our article "Kids and Crushes, Idols, and Obsessions" can give parents ideas for discussion with their kids.
Book Details
- Author: Gennifer Choldenko
- Genre: Coming of Age
- Topics: Brothers and Sisters, Friendship, History
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Dial Books
- Publication date: September 3, 2009
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 10 - 14
- Number of pages: 274
- Available on: Paperback, Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Last updated: July 12, 2017
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