I have to be honest. This book did not appeal to me. I've never watched any of those major gangster movies that everyone seems to have watched and sometimes talks about. I only had a vague idea of who Al Capone was. So when I saw the title, I didn't really “get” the humorous reference. So first off, if I were to use this book in one of my classes, I would be sure to give some background on this historical figure. I also didn't know that this was historical fiction. Once I read the description on the book, however, and the inside preview on the first page, the novel had my attention.
I have to say that I really enjoyed this book. I could hardly put it down and finished it within a couple of days. I absolutely loved this author's writing style. He is funny and entertaining, and at the same time, you come to care for the character because of the issues he has. I know that teens, especially boys, would be able to relate to this character and his sense of humor.
Another thing that I liked was that although this book is historical fiction, it doesn't seem like it. I almost feel like this story could have taken place nowadays except for the obvious lack of technology. That's how real the characters seemed to me and how much I could relate to them. However, the reader also learns so much about history in terms of Al Capone and Alcatraz prison. I thought it was amazing that this story was based on something real. I was intrigued and devoured the Author's Note at the end.
There are so many things a teen could relate to in this book. For example, Moose feels less important to his mother and often argues with her for the huge amount of responsibility he has to take as just a young middle schooler. Many kids these days still struggle with that. Also, he hardly sees his dad because he has to work two jobs to get along financially. That's something else anyone could relate to.
Another important issue that comes up in this book is autism. I never even knew autism existed as a kid. Now, I only know a little and it was through college classes that I learned about autism. I think this book is a great tool for making kids aware of autism in a way that is not boring or uncomfortable. I think that if I was a teen reading this book, I would be kind of weirded out by the condition that Moose's sister, has but I would also connect very deeply to his protectiveness and intense love for her.
All in all, this book was not action-packed like other reads. However, it dealt with lots of important emotions and issues. Also, it was funny, which is always a good thing in young adult books. I found myself hating Piper and rooting for Moose and his sister. Yet, I liked that even Piper seemed to show a good side at the end. And the ending I will never forget. How awesome is it that Moose got a world-known convicted felon to help his sister get into the school? I think that shows another important lesson: even criminals have a heart.
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