Gennifer Choldenko: Al Capone Shines My Shoes

I loved it. I don't think my freshmen like it, but I wanted to pick a read aloud book that they might have a connection to. In middle school they read book 1.
I thought Moose, his sister, the convicts, Piper, Jimmy, Theresa, Janet, Darby Trixle, and the Warden are developed much more, and I am really impressed with the actual plot and resolution. AND I am hoping for a book three. This one didn't end as open-ended as book one did, but still left some awesome questions for the reader.
I also love the way the author deals with Nat and her autism. I love how all the prejudices (for mental illnesses and women's roles) are addressed for the time period, but I wonder how much of a connection my students today can make (without serious instruction and exploration--which my students are NOT willing to accomodate nor accomplish).
I liked the book a great deal though!!!