Upper Elementary Book Review discussion

This book takes place in 1935 and tells the story of the kids who live on Alcatraz while Al Capone is a prisoner there. Moose has just moved there because his dad has become employed by the prison. He is often charged with taking care of his older sister who has a severe form of autism (which, of course, not diagnosed as such at the time) while trying to acclimate to his new surroundings. While protecting his sister Natalie, he must also watch out for Piper, the warden's daughter who is always up to something, including a scheme to have Al Capone wash kids' shirts for a nickel. Can Moose find true friendship and a life on the island?

This is a good book for on-level fifth graders and high-level fourth graders. I think it would appeal to both genders, but I think it would particularly hold the interest of boys. There are a few time-related things included (like Moose knocks over his inkwell in class), but the book is very easy to relate to. I enjoyed it; I think most kids would as well. This could also be a good read-aloud.