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Alcatraz: The Last Escape
When Frank Morris and brothers John and Clarence Anglin boldly escaped from Alcatraz prison on June 11, 1962, it is widely believed that they succumbed to the waters of San Francisco Bay, though no trace of the men has ever been found, only their makeshift raft.
In this reexamination of the escape and its aftermath, the Anglin brothers' nephew presents compelling evidence that his uncles did, in fact, survive, and eventually made their way to Brazil, where they married and had children. Using official, government documents showing how mobster Mickey Cohen may have been involved in the escape, some revealing letters from fellow inmate Whitey Bulger, and recorded testimony from the person who facilitated their escape to Brazil, the authors make a strong case for the Anglin brothers' survival.
In addition, a 1975 photograph of the brothers in Brazil has overcome all challenges to its authenticity by skeptics. This book provides a plausible outcome to one of America's enduring mysteries.
In this reexamination of the escape and its aftermath, the Anglin brothers' nephew presents compelling evidence that his uncles did, in fact, survive, and eventually made their way to Brazil, where they married and had children. Using official, government documents showing how mobster Mickey Cohen may have been involved in the escape, some revealing letters from fellow inmate Whitey Bulger, and recorded testimony from the person who facilitated their escape to Brazil, the authors make a strong case for the Anglin brothers' survival.
In addition, a 1975 photograph of the brothers in Brazil has overcome all challenges to its authenticity by skeptics. This book provides a plausible outcome to one of America's enduring mysteries.
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Published May 7, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 4, 2025
First of all, I love the 1979 Clint Eastwood movie Escape From Alcatraz. It's one of those movies I grew up with, taped on VHS from the TV, and the number of times I have seen that film may be in the double digits.
So I was onboard for this book, willing to learn about a different perspective than the usual one. Namely that the true brains behind the esscape were the Anglin brothers, not Frank Morris. I hoped I was in for an interesting read.
And it started out well with a different take on the escape. According to this theory the three men didn't paddle across the bay by hand. Instead they tied a long extension cord from their raft to a guard boat leaving the island, dragging them behind. Essentially the three inmates wakeboarded their way to freedom.
But it quickly went downhill from there with huge red flags.
We then get to a background chapter focusing on the Anglin brothers, with long stretches of very specific verbatim dialogue between the brothers and their mother. It's not reconstructed dialogue (the mother had been dead for over 50 years when the book was released, and the brothers missing a decade longer than that), it's totally imagined dialogue. Which makes it all seem like bullshit.
At that point I started reading the reviews of others, and decided to give up. The book seems highly speculative with not enough factual basis for its claims.
So I was onboard for this book, willing to learn about a different perspective than the usual one. Namely that the true brains behind the esscape were the Anglin brothers, not Frank Morris. I hoped I was in for an interesting read.
And it started out well with a different take on the escape. According to this theory the three men didn't paddle across the bay by hand. Instead they tied a long extension cord from their raft to a guard boat leaving the island, dragging them behind. Essentially the three inmates wakeboarded their way to freedom.
But it quickly went downhill from there with huge red flags.
We then get to a background chapter focusing on the Anglin brothers, with long stretches of very specific verbatim dialogue between the brothers and their mother. It's not reconstructed dialogue (the mother had been dead for over 50 years when the book was released, and the brothers missing a decade longer than that), it's totally imagined dialogue. Which makes it all seem like bullshit.
At that point I started reading the reviews of others, and decided to give up. The book seems highly speculative with not enough factual basis for its claims.
May 9, 2024
Thank you to Globe Pequot and NetGalley for my advanced-reader copy of this book. This review features my own opinions and authentic thoughts.
Alcatraz: The Last Escape is a compelling account of the Anglin brothers, the infamous Alcatraz escapees, who are widely believed to have drowned during their escape attempt from the equally infamous prison island. Written by their nephew, the book uses a collection of government documents, personal letters and testimonies, and photographs to paint a strong case that the brothers actually survived. In fact, Widner suggests that his uncles escaped with the help of their mobster friend Mickey Cohen and wound up in Brazil, living out their lives and fathering children.
I’m fascinated by this case and have been for years, so I enjoyed this engaging read. It was super interesting to see government documents and even read the somewhat intrusively private personal letters. For all the petty crimes they committed, they were humans, brothers, sons, after all. The format was a little hard to follow at times, and I could just about let the reconstructed dialogue pass – it took me away from the overall story, because it just felt cheesy and forced. I also found it emotionally captivating: here is a nephew desperately reconstructing the potential story of his uncles and whose family has been irrevocably changed by their actions and paths. Is it his wishful thinking? I finished the book with more questions than before!
Alcatraz: The Last Escape is a compelling account of the Anglin brothers, the infamous Alcatraz escapees, who are widely believed to have drowned during their escape attempt from the equally infamous prison island. Written by their nephew, the book uses a collection of government documents, personal letters and testimonies, and photographs to paint a strong case that the brothers actually survived. In fact, Widner suggests that his uncles escaped with the help of their mobster friend Mickey Cohen and wound up in Brazil, living out their lives and fathering children.
I’m fascinated by this case and have been for years, so I enjoyed this engaging read. It was super interesting to see government documents and even read the somewhat intrusively private personal letters. For all the petty crimes they committed, they were humans, brothers, sons, after all. The format was a little hard to follow at times, and I could just about let the reconstructed dialogue pass – it took me away from the overall story, because it just felt cheesy and forced. I also found it emotionally captivating: here is a nephew desperately reconstructing the potential story of his uncles and whose family has been irrevocably changed by their actions and paths. Is it his wishful thinking? I finished the book with more questions than before!
March 26, 2025
3.5 stars. A semi-convincing story that the escapees survived. Interesting. Didn’t care so much for the ending of the book where the authors detailed their difficulties in getting their story told.
March 16, 2025
Very interesting! Crazy this is a true story!
October 18, 2025
As another reviewer said, a two-star book for a five-star story. The planning and execution of the infamous escape was mildly interesting. But it seemed that the author was over-eager to prove that his uncles were only victims - of poverty, of prejudice, of injustice. And that they were therefore justified in committing their various crimes. DNF at page 150.
May 18, 2024
Ken Widner and Mike Lynch’s "Alcatraz: The Last Escape" does a low dive into the well-worn mystery of the 1962 escape from the infamous prison. Widner, nephew of escapees John and Clarence Anglin, undoubtedly possesses a personal connection to the escape. However, this very closeness might be what weakens the overall impact of this assortment of far-fetched and full-on conspiracy theories. The book's greatest strength – Widner's family connection – becomes a double-edged sword. A narrative that is undeniably colored by his personal investment in proving the Anglin brothers' survival. The evidence presented, particularly regarding their supposed escape to South America, seems circumstantial at best. Witness testimonies and a single 1970s photograph fall short of anything conclusive. It is a manifesto of prioritizing a personal desire for a specific outcome over a more objective presentation of the evidence.
The narrative sheds light on the Anglin brothers' personalities but is often emotionally charged. Widner prioritizes his desire to prove their survival over a more objective presentation of evidence. The claims of mob involvement and a South American escape route, while intriguing, lack any proof to compete with existing, well-researched accounts.
A more critical examination of the escape's challenges would have strengthened the book. This includes a deeper exploration and detailed debate of the official narrative. The authors fail to adequately address the difficulty of surviving the surrounding waters or avoiding detection when towed by the guard’s ferry, creating gaps in this theory. For example, they propose the escapees used a self-made raft with a rope attached to the prison ferry to reach an awaiting boat, and they “let go of one end of the cord, which spun around the rudder in an instant and released them from the transport.” Doesn’t it seem a little far-fetched that the guards in the boat and watchtower didn’t notice a raft with three men being towed behind the ferry after maneuvering away from the dock?
The book fails to consider opposing viewpoints. The use of fictional dialogue to narrate event sequences undermines the book's credibility. The official narrative of the escape, based on records and witness accounts, is largely ignored. Without a more critical examination of these factors, the alternative theories lose credibility and become less grounded, resembling conspiracy schemes.
"Alcatraz: The Last Escape" relies heavily on speculation and lacks the concrete evidence needed to challenge the prevailing narrative. This pursuit of an alternative story suffers from a lack of objectivity and verifiable proof. Widner introduces figures like mobster Mickey Cohen without substantial evidence, disregarding established research on Cohen (Tere Tereba, Steve Stevens’ profiles and Cohen’s autobiography). Furthermore, factual errors like misidentifying Cohen's girlfriend in photos, and assertions of Fred Brizzi's unsubstantiated connection to Cohen raise concerns about the book's overall research methodology. When I searched the internet for other references on Brizzi, I found little, but came across a 2015 interview in the Daily Mail with his widow Judith. It quoted her as saying, “In all the years we were together he never talked about those men. Fred was a con artist. He was always coming up with new money-making schemes. The story about the Anglins’ could have been another.” She claimed he had never mentioned meeting brothers John and Clarence Anglin during their 20-year marriage.
The book also minimizes Frank Morris's well-documented role as the most likely mastermind of the escape, favoring the Anglin brothers without sufficient evidence (his photo is also notably absent from the book cover). This revisionist approach disregards established factual records highlighting his "superior intelligence." Additionally, the inclusion of dramatized fictional dialogue passages further diminishes his contributions, with the Anglins consistently positioned as the focal point of these interactions. While definitively identifying a leader among the accomplices may be impossible, intentionally downplaying Morris's role without factual evidence (a term used carelessly by the authors) appears irresponsible for those claiming to "set the record straight.”
The book's closing sections delve into failed movie and miniseries deals, raising more questions than answers. Why the intense desire by a family member to prove the Anglin brothers' survival, potentially jeopardizing their lives if they are still alive? This pursuit, while an open FBI investigation continues, begs further inquiry. Is it driven by financial gain, a thirst for fame, or a genuine belief they made it out? The book offers no definitive answer, leaving the reader to ponder these motives. Additionally, an entire chapter dedicated to securing a movie deal appears extraneous to the escape narrative. However, the author's self-promotion becomes particularly loud in this section. Not only does he openly seek a Hollywood deal, but also takes a swipe at Clint Eastwood's 1979 film "Escape from Alcatraz," claiming with his "guidance" a new film "would get it right this time."
Despite my longstanding fascination with Alcatraz and approaching the book with an open mind, for me the book was a complete disappointment. I would recommend that readers seeking well-researched theories with strong arguments look for alternative works.
"Alcatraz: The Last Escape" offers a slightly interesting, but ultimately unconvincing alternative theory about the 1962 escape. The book's strengths lie in its unique focus on the Anglin brothers. However, its weaknesses include a lack of objectivity, questionable research practices, and a downplaying of established facts. Readers interested in the Alcatraz escape are advised to consider this book alongside more balanced and evidence-based accounts. There are better books out there that tell the story of this escape.
Please kindly note: I write these reviews for my personal enjoyment. From time to time, I may give my opinion on a book or movie. It is just my opinion, I'm not an expert and other people's opinions may differ (I can't help it if they are wrong more than me! ha ha).
The narrative sheds light on the Anglin brothers' personalities but is often emotionally charged. Widner prioritizes his desire to prove their survival over a more objective presentation of evidence. The claims of mob involvement and a South American escape route, while intriguing, lack any proof to compete with existing, well-researched accounts.
A more critical examination of the escape's challenges would have strengthened the book. This includes a deeper exploration and detailed debate of the official narrative. The authors fail to adequately address the difficulty of surviving the surrounding waters or avoiding detection when towed by the guard’s ferry, creating gaps in this theory. For example, they propose the escapees used a self-made raft with a rope attached to the prison ferry to reach an awaiting boat, and they “let go of one end of the cord, which spun around the rudder in an instant and released them from the transport.” Doesn’t it seem a little far-fetched that the guards in the boat and watchtower didn’t notice a raft with three men being towed behind the ferry after maneuvering away from the dock?
The book fails to consider opposing viewpoints. The use of fictional dialogue to narrate event sequences undermines the book's credibility. The official narrative of the escape, based on records and witness accounts, is largely ignored. Without a more critical examination of these factors, the alternative theories lose credibility and become less grounded, resembling conspiracy schemes.
"Alcatraz: The Last Escape" relies heavily on speculation and lacks the concrete evidence needed to challenge the prevailing narrative. This pursuit of an alternative story suffers from a lack of objectivity and verifiable proof. Widner introduces figures like mobster Mickey Cohen without substantial evidence, disregarding established research on Cohen (Tere Tereba, Steve Stevens’ profiles and Cohen’s autobiography). Furthermore, factual errors like misidentifying Cohen's girlfriend in photos, and assertions of Fred Brizzi's unsubstantiated connection to Cohen raise concerns about the book's overall research methodology. When I searched the internet for other references on Brizzi, I found little, but came across a 2015 interview in the Daily Mail with his widow Judith. It quoted her as saying, “In all the years we were together he never talked about those men. Fred was a con artist. He was always coming up with new money-making schemes. The story about the Anglins’ could have been another.” She claimed he had never mentioned meeting brothers John and Clarence Anglin during their 20-year marriage.
The book also minimizes Frank Morris's well-documented role as the most likely mastermind of the escape, favoring the Anglin brothers without sufficient evidence (his photo is also notably absent from the book cover). This revisionist approach disregards established factual records highlighting his "superior intelligence." Additionally, the inclusion of dramatized fictional dialogue passages further diminishes his contributions, with the Anglins consistently positioned as the focal point of these interactions. While definitively identifying a leader among the accomplices may be impossible, intentionally downplaying Morris's role without factual evidence (a term used carelessly by the authors) appears irresponsible for those claiming to "set the record straight.”
The book's closing sections delve into failed movie and miniseries deals, raising more questions than answers. Why the intense desire by a family member to prove the Anglin brothers' survival, potentially jeopardizing their lives if they are still alive? This pursuit, while an open FBI investigation continues, begs further inquiry. Is it driven by financial gain, a thirst for fame, or a genuine belief they made it out? The book offers no definitive answer, leaving the reader to ponder these motives. Additionally, an entire chapter dedicated to securing a movie deal appears extraneous to the escape narrative. However, the author's self-promotion becomes particularly loud in this section. Not only does he openly seek a Hollywood deal, but also takes a swipe at Clint Eastwood's 1979 film "Escape from Alcatraz," claiming with his "guidance" a new film "would get it right this time."
Despite my longstanding fascination with Alcatraz and approaching the book with an open mind, for me the book was a complete disappointment. I would recommend that readers seeking well-researched theories with strong arguments look for alternative works.
"Alcatraz: The Last Escape" offers a slightly interesting, but ultimately unconvincing alternative theory about the 1962 escape. The book's strengths lie in its unique focus on the Anglin brothers. However, its weaknesses include a lack of objectivity, questionable research practices, and a downplaying of established facts. Readers interested in the Alcatraz escape are advised to consider this book alongside more balanced and evidence-based accounts. There are better books out there that tell the story of this escape.
Please kindly note: I write these reviews for my personal enjoyment. From time to time, I may give my opinion on a book or movie. It is just my opinion, I'm not an expert and other people's opinions may differ (I can't help it if they are wrong more than me! ha ha).
June 24, 2024
Alcatraz was "The Rock." The prison that was considered escape proof. While a handful tried to escape, they were either captured, or drowned during their attempt. Alcatraz continued to tout their mantra of being THE one prison no one could escape from - or so they thought.
There is a small group of men that are going to try and test the theory of escape, and what they begin to plot is far more advanced than any other group has tried yet. Every single detail has to be thought out meticulously, and every movement planned with care. But when you reside in a maximum security prison, how likely is it that your plans are going to go unnoticed?
June 11, 1962 is when everything kicked off, and became, perhaps, the greatest prison break of all time. Frank Morris and John and Clarence Anglin had planned, re-planned, got around all expected barriers, and figured out how to get off the island, with a little help of course. Who else would offer this help? (Seriously, I can't give EVERYTHING away here, otherwise you might not enjoy the book).
Once off the island, the water would be freezing cold. With above said help, and some good luck, the impossible might just be possible.
Based on new evidence, and some pretty compelling photographic evidence on top, it looks as though the three did, in fact, make it off Alcatraz, escaping to Brazil, where they started new lives. In addition to this book, there is an episode on Expedition Unknown (season 10), where this case is examined, and further evidence is brought forth.
My Thoughts:
Honestly, this was a hard book to put down. There are some areas where it feels a bit slow, but overall, the narrative was well-done. You are going to be introduced to the major players, and the lives they led before they were imprisoned at Alcatraz. These details are important, as they will come to bear later in the story.
But to think that three men actually made it, alive, and were able to escape under one of the most daring feats is incredible. Using ingenuity, some down home know how, and what seems to be a complacency of the guards on Alcatraz, the events and items all came together to allow the men to plan and execute this plan.
I was not sure at first, whether the evidence put forth was going to be believable or not. It is hard to think that this massive undertaking could be going on, under the noses of the guards, and no one notice.
Further, it is hard to believe that out of those involved, not one person snitched, trying to gain a lighter sentence or just out of spite. As stated, there is some pretty compelling evidence and data to show that they did escape, and were able to start a new life. However, I think the case cannot be conclusively closed without some DNA evidence as proof. While DNA was not a thing back in the 1960s, today, it would be the ultimate show stopper, allowing history to be re-written, and tearing the idea apart that Alcatraz was an "unescapable fortress."
For those who enjoy history, this is going to be a book you do not want to pass up. Interesting and full of colorful characters.
Thank you to Lyons Press, NetGalley, Edelweiss, and the authors, Ken Widner and Mike Lynch for a copy of this book for review. The thoughts above are my own, and are based on my reading of the book and the evidence showcased in the Expedition Unknown episode.
There is a small group of men that are going to try and test the theory of escape, and what they begin to plot is far more advanced than any other group has tried yet. Every single detail has to be thought out meticulously, and every movement planned with care. But when you reside in a maximum security prison, how likely is it that your plans are going to go unnoticed?
June 11, 1962 is when everything kicked off, and became, perhaps, the greatest prison break of all time. Frank Morris and John and Clarence Anglin had planned, re-planned, got around all expected barriers, and figured out how to get off the island, with a little help of course. Who else would offer this help? (Seriously, I can't give EVERYTHING away here, otherwise you might not enjoy the book).
Once off the island, the water would be freezing cold. With above said help, and some good luck, the impossible might just be possible.
Based on new evidence, and some pretty compelling photographic evidence on top, it looks as though the three did, in fact, make it off Alcatraz, escaping to Brazil, where they started new lives. In addition to this book, there is an episode on Expedition Unknown (season 10), where this case is examined, and further evidence is brought forth.
My Thoughts:
Honestly, this was a hard book to put down. There are some areas where it feels a bit slow, but overall, the narrative was well-done. You are going to be introduced to the major players, and the lives they led before they were imprisoned at Alcatraz. These details are important, as they will come to bear later in the story.
But to think that three men actually made it, alive, and were able to escape under one of the most daring feats is incredible. Using ingenuity, some down home know how, and what seems to be a complacency of the guards on Alcatraz, the events and items all came together to allow the men to plan and execute this plan.
I was not sure at first, whether the evidence put forth was going to be believable or not. It is hard to think that this massive undertaking could be going on, under the noses of the guards, and no one notice.
Further, it is hard to believe that out of those involved, not one person snitched, trying to gain a lighter sentence or just out of spite. As stated, there is some pretty compelling evidence and data to show that they did escape, and were able to start a new life. However, I think the case cannot be conclusively closed without some DNA evidence as proof. While DNA was not a thing back in the 1960s, today, it would be the ultimate show stopper, allowing history to be re-written, and tearing the idea apart that Alcatraz was an "unescapable fortress."
For those who enjoy history, this is going to be a book you do not want to pass up. Interesting and full of colorful characters.
Thank you to Lyons Press, NetGalley, Edelweiss, and the authors, Ken Widner and Mike Lynch for a copy of this book for review. The thoughts above are my own, and are based on my reading of the book and the evidence showcased in the Expedition Unknown episode.
April 3, 2025
My introduction to the island of Alcatraz was the 1979 film, Escape from Alcatraz starring Clint Eastwood. I was mesmerized by the extreme isolation and the harsh sterility of the prison which stood in sharp contrast to the vibrant and almost larger-than-life characters of Frank Morris, John, and Clarence Algin. It didn’t seem possible for these three men to escape and survive. Even as the credits rolled, I wanted to believe that they had somehow made it. “Alcatraz: The Last Escape” clears any ambiguity about the three men’s fate.
What sets “Alcatraz: The Last Escape” by Ken Widner and Mike Lynch apart from the hundreds of other biographies is that Ken Widner is the nephew of John and Clarence Algin. Not only does he have the answers to what exactly happened to John and Clarence after June 11, 1962, but he also humanizes the pair. As Widner so aptly states in his introduction,
Never once did Mr. Eastwood or the makers of the movie (Escape from Alcatraz) sit down with us and find out just who John and Clarence were, where they grew up, or what they wanted for their lives.
This book picks up the threads of the movie’s narrative and provides some much-needed context.
The two Algin brothers didn’t have an easy life growing up with their fourteen siblings in depression-era Florida. While their parents were loving and supportive, it almost seemed inevitable for them to fall into a life of crime. With no money, little to do, and a whole brood of sibling accomplices, John and Clarence showed an aptitude for petty crime and escaping police custody. As they grew older the ante was upped, so it was a natural progression from their small farm in Ruskin, Florida, to the island of Alcatraz.
While movies show that Frank Morris was the criminal mastermind who planned the escape, it’s clear that the brother’s track record of escaping preceded them. It wouldn’t have been surprising to the Algin family to hear that John and Clarence were on the lam again. While they had to maintain a low profile after Alcatraz, Widner has evidence to show that their family was aware of where they were and how they were secretly proud of them. After all, who wouldn’t be?
Although Widner does not have conclusive DNA at this time to support his claims, his extensive knowledge of the case and the men involved is undeniable.
If you are a fan of true crime, “Alcatraz: The Last Escape” by Joe Widner and Mike Lynch is a must-read.
What sets “Alcatraz: The Last Escape” by Ken Widner and Mike Lynch apart from the hundreds of other biographies is that Ken Widner is the nephew of John and Clarence Algin. Not only does he have the answers to what exactly happened to John and Clarence after June 11, 1962, but he also humanizes the pair. As Widner so aptly states in his introduction,
Never once did Mr. Eastwood or the makers of the movie (Escape from Alcatraz) sit down with us and find out just who John and Clarence were, where they grew up, or what they wanted for their lives.
This book picks up the threads of the movie’s narrative and provides some much-needed context.
The two Algin brothers didn’t have an easy life growing up with their fourteen siblings in depression-era Florida. While their parents were loving and supportive, it almost seemed inevitable for them to fall into a life of crime. With no money, little to do, and a whole brood of sibling accomplices, John and Clarence showed an aptitude for petty crime and escaping police custody. As they grew older the ante was upped, so it was a natural progression from their small farm in Ruskin, Florida, to the island of Alcatraz.
While movies show that Frank Morris was the criminal mastermind who planned the escape, it’s clear that the brother’s track record of escaping preceded them. It wouldn’t have been surprising to the Algin family to hear that John and Clarence were on the lam again. While they had to maintain a low profile after Alcatraz, Widner has evidence to show that their family was aware of where they were and how they were secretly proud of them. After all, who wouldn’t be?
Although Widner does not have conclusive DNA at this time to support his claims, his extensive knowledge of the case and the men involved is undeniable.
If you are a fan of true crime, “Alcatraz: The Last Escape” by Joe Widner and Mike Lynch is a must-read.
April 17, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Riveting, Humanizing Look at One of History’s Greatest Prison Escapes
Alcatraz: The Last Escape by Ken Widner and Mike Lynch is a gripping, emotionally charged, and refreshingly personal take on the infamous 1962 escape from Alcatraz. While countless books and documentaries have explored the mystery, what sets this one apart is Ken Widner’s unique perspective as the nephew of escapees John and Clarence Anglin. This connection breathes humanity into the story, elevating it beyond the usual crime narrative.
The book presents not just a compelling theory about the escape, suggesting the men may have survived and fled to Brazil, but also offers new evidence, including personal letters, photographs, and government documents. Widner weaves together fact and family lore to craft a plausible and heartfelt alternative to the official record. While some details remain unverified and DNA confirmation is still pending, the amount of effort and depth of research is admirable.
What struck me most was how the book reclaims the identity of the Anglin brothers. They aren’t just escapees here; they’re sons, brothers, and men who grew up in tough circumstances in Depression-era Florida. Widner gives voice to their upbringing, their resilience, and even their sense of humor. Rather than glorify their crimes, the book sheds light on the complexity of their choices and the humanity behind their actions.
While some readers may find the emotional tone or dramatized dialogue distracting, I found it added a raw, authentic layer to the story. This isn’t just a chronicle of a prison break, it’s a deeply personal family history, one that challenges the myth of Alcatraz’s "inescapable" status. And yes, there are moments where the narrative leans into speculation, but even then, it’s anchored by a genuine desire to uncover the truth, not to sensationalize.
For fans of true crime, prison history, or just plain fascinating stories, Alcatraz: The Last Escape is a must-read. It invites readers to reconsider what they thought they knew about Alcatraz, and the power of family legacy. Whether or not you believe the escapees survived, one thing is clear: their story is far from over.
Alcatraz: The Last Escape by Ken Widner and Mike Lynch is a gripping, emotionally charged, and refreshingly personal take on the infamous 1962 escape from Alcatraz. While countless books and documentaries have explored the mystery, what sets this one apart is Ken Widner’s unique perspective as the nephew of escapees John and Clarence Anglin. This connection breathes humanity into the story, elevating it beyond the usual crime narrative.
The book presents not just a compelling theory about the escape, suggesting the men may have survived and fled to Brazil, but also offers new evidence, including personal letters, photographs, and government documents. Widner weaves together fact and family lore to craft a plausible and heartfelt alternative to the official record. While some details remain unverified and DNA confirmation is still pending, the amount of effort and depth of research is admirable.
What struck me most was how the book reclaims the identity of the Anglin brothers. They aren’t just escapees here; they’re sons, brothers, and men who grew up in tough circumstances in Depression-era Florida. Widner gives voice to their upbringing, their resilience, and even their sense of humor. Rather than glorify their crimes, the book sheds light on the complexity of their choices and the humanity behind their actions.
While some readers may find the emotional tone or dramatized dialogue distracting, I found it added a raw, authentic layer to the story. This isn’t just a chronicle of a prison break, it’s a deeply personal family history, one that challenges the myth of Alcatraz’s "inescapable" status. And yes, there are moments where the narrative leans into speculation, but even then, it’s anchored by a genuine desire to uncover the truth, not to sensationalize.
For fans of true crime, prison history, or just plain fascinating stories, Alcatraz: The Last Escape is a must-read. It invites readers to reconsider what they thought they knew about Alcatraz, and the power of family legacy. Whether or not you believe the escapees survived, one thing is clear: their story is far from over.
April 7, 2024
I would like to take time to thank Globe Pequot and NetGalley for providing me with the ARC of the factual happenings behind the infamous escape from Alcatraz.
“Alcatraz: The Last Escape” is a carefully crafted account, written by family members of the notorious escape artists that all but proves the successful escape from inescapable prison.
Widner and Lynch gain ethos with a detailed background of the criminal’s childhood, upbringing, early encounters with the legal system and then lifelong illegal activity. Quite frankly, John and Clarence Anglin were destined for prison their entire lives, until they weren’t.
The co-authors do an incredible job incorporating photographs, documents, letters and historical artifacts to help ferry the reader through the life and mischievous journey of the two brothers.
Towards the end of the book, a lot of the story is left to interpretation, hear-say and conjecture, which was inevitable considering the two brothers were forced to disappear and cut ties completely with their former lives. So although necessary, the reader is left with a sense skepticism in moments of fabricated dialogue between characters left in the story.
I also thought the mention of numerous failed attempts at getting the story turned into a film/documentary/netflix special cheapened the narrative.
Overall, the book was well paced, well researched and entertaining. I will be grabbing the hard copy for my collection.
“Alcatraz: The Last Escape” is a carefully crafted account, written by family members of the notorious escape artists that all but proves the successful escape from inescapable prison.
Widner and Lynch gain ethos with a detailed background of the criminal’s childhood, upbringing, early encounters with the legal system and then lifelong illegal activity. Quite frankly, John and Clarence Anglin were destined for prison their entire lives, until they weren’t.
The co-authors do an incredible job incorporating photographs, documents, letters and historical artifacts to help ferry the reader through the life and mischievous journey of the two brothers.
Towards the end of the book, a lot of the story is left to interpretation, hear-say and conjecture, which was inevitable considering the two brothers were forced to disappear and cut ties completely with their former lives. So although necessary, the reader is left with a sense skepticism in moments of fabricated dialogue between characters left in the story.
I also thought the mention of numerous failed attempts at getting the story turned into a film/documentary/netflix special cheapened the narrative.
Overall, the book was well paced, well researched and entertaining. I will be grabbing the hard copy for my collection.
September 18, 2025
I remember watching the recent documentary about the escapees from Alcatraz, and how they probably survived. It was pretty interesting and convincing to me. It was the documentary based on this book.
This book is written by the nephew of one of the men who escaped. I think the author did want to "set the record straight" and explain how his uncle and fellow prisoners did likely escape and survive. At the same time, I think it take a certain kind of person to write such a book containing so much speculation and contrived dialogue and also pursue the creation of a television show on this topic that probably has a very narrow audience. That takes so much effort and intention.
So I enjoyed the book but I'm well aware it probably contains a lot of speculation. However, if it didn't it would have been super boring. So, I was entertained. It was well narrated. So, 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
This book is written by the nephew of one of the men who escaped. I think the author did want to "set the record straight" and explain how his uncle and fellow prisoners did likely escape and survive. At the same time, I think it take a certain kind of person to write such a book containing so much speculation and contrived dialogue and also pursue the creation of a television show on this topic that probably has a very narrow audience. That takes so much effort and intention.
So I enjoyed the book but I'm well aware it probably contains a lot of speculation. However, if it didn't it would have been super boring. So, I was entertained. It was well narrated. So, 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
May 24, 2025
In light of all the BS about re-opening Alcatraz I had to read Mr. Widner's book. He tells a marvelous story about his uncles who likely successfully escaped from the famed prison shortly before it was closed. It wasn't closed because of them, but because of how expensive and impractical it was to keep it open. This book isn't just about the escape -- it tells of not only the family history, but of how hard life was in the 1930's and how families struggled how to get by. The brothers were clearly very bright -- and had it been a different time I think their outcome would have been so much different. Really terrific read.
January 7, 2025
The biography of the two brothers were interesting about how they became such escape artists and the fact that they used previous tricks in this major escape. It is nice to see they talked about Whitey. You dont hear much about it him being there. But it did take a while to hear those "a-ha" or "huh" moments. I have read probably 6 books on Alcatraz along with visiting there and watching all documentaries about it. That I feel this one got more into the brothers younger years. It doesn't change my view on whether I think they made it or not but it is always something that has fascinated me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2025
A really interesting book. It is written by a nephew of the prisoners that were the last to escape Alcatraz and the only ones that survived, so says the story. I believe the story, I think the prisoners did get away with the help of some friends and family. Even if you don't believe the story, it details how they maneuvered the escape which could be helpful down the road. I visited Alcatraz once when I was in San Francisco, so it was easy for me to imagine most of what was talked about. But, even if you haven't personally seen Alcatraz it is a fascinating read.
April 25, 2025
A two star book for a five star story. I could have done without the imagined conversations and the corny quotes preceding every chapter. The author is related to the escapees, and certainly has a bone to pick with how they were treated, both before and after the escape. Certainly an interesting choice to spend so many pages describing the author's attempt to produce a series of movies, then a TV mini series about the escape, but so few pages describing the actual night of the escape.
March 25, 2025
I loved this book! My only complaint was that I felt there was a little too much family history on the escapees, going back too many generations. Other than that I thought it was perfect. I’ve been fascinated with the escape most of my life and found this account by a family member to be really interesting and informative.
May 8, 2025
This was an intersting book, especially if you're fascinated with Alcatraz. I was always a fan of the movie with Clint Eastwood, and this book claims to tell the "real story" of the actual escape. The book presents pretty definitive evidence that not only was there an escape, but they actually went on to live out the rest of their lives in South America.
July 19, 2025
Super interesting new information
I enjoyed this even more than I anticipated. I’ve read other books on Alcatraz and the escape, so have long been fascinated. This book filled in gaps of knowledge for us all. The fact that they pulled it odd is quite the revelation. Includes the background information on how the conclusion was reached.
I enjoyed this even more than I anticipated. I’ve read other books on Alcatraz and the escape, so have long been fascinated. This book filled in gaps of knowledge for us all. The fact that they pulled it odd is quite the revelation. Includes the background information on how the conclusion was reached.
August 14, 2025
This 10hr Audiobook shortie told just about everything you’ll want to know about the three escapees, how they did it, and gives convincing information that the three made it first to Mexico and then Brazil instead of drowning in the Bay as the cops would have you believe. Well narrated - a fast engaging listen 3***
January 10, 2026
This was great! I very much enjoyed the audiobook. This is one of my two random interests - prison escape (especially the one from Alcatraz) and mountain climbing (especially on Everest). I loved that this was written by a member of the escapees' family and took the position that the men made it and lived for many years. So interesting!
April 15, 2025
Pure entertainment! This is the perfect book to learn much about Alcatraz and the escape details that are acknowledged. However, a whole other story is then told. Sure, the authors, the Anglin family, and associates could be making all of this up, but one must agree their evidence is compelling.
April 18, 2025
This book is ridiculous! Unless you’re interested in justification for why these guys did what they did. I wouldn’t suggest it to anyone. Hate that I added to author’s royalties. Expected something way different than this.
June 13, 2025
This was a fascinating read! Wow! I visited Alcatraz last summer and immediately became intrigued by the history of the prison, the people and obviously the escape. This book was highly recommended by one of the tour guides, and it did not disappoint!
October 7, 2025
This was a very weak story. Sells the story as written from a family member- nephew that states the family believes that the escape was successful and the escapees are living in South America There is no proof offered and it's just another retelling of the escape.
April 1, 2024
Fascinating story of 3 brothers rumored to have escaped the unescaple Alcatraz prison. Written by family the book details how the escape was pulled off.
January 3, 2025
FANTASTIC Book!!! Lots of interesting history regarding the history of the Anglin Brothers and Frank Morris' escape off "The Rock" and some of their early life after the escape.
March 26, 2025
I recommend this tile. It is a nice book that answers my curiosities about the incident. It is written by nephews of the brothers who escaped.
April 3, 2025
I can believe that they survived the escape but I am not so sure about the South American part. Still a fun story though.
April 4, 2025
Very interesting story. Some parts are a little boring, it goes into detail about the past of people involved and general history of relevant issues. Still a fun read.
April 10, 2025
…I have always been fascinated by this story. Without a doubt I now believe they made it off the island and died as old men in Brazil. Excellent read!
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