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53 pages 1 hour read

Al Capone Does My Homework

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2004

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Book Brief

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Gennifer Choldenko

Al Capone Does My Homework

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2004
Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Alcatraz Island • 1930s

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

570L

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Super Short Summary

In Al Capone Does My Homework by Gennifer Choldenko, Moose Flanagan navigates the challenges of living on Alcatraz Island after his father is promoted to associate warden and their apartment catches fire. Suspecting foul play linked to his father's promotion, Moose, his sister Natalie, who has a developmental disability, and friends investigate clues involving counterfeit money and a convict's cryptic messages, leading to revelations about the fire's true culprit and their father's dangerous situation.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Humorous

Bittersweet

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.4

4,548 ratings

81%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Al Capone Does My Homework by Gennifer Choldenko is praised for its engaging and well-paced narrative, historical accuracy, and strong character development. Critics highlight the protagonist's growth and the vivid depiction of Alcatraz life. However, some feel the plot twists are predictable and the ending slightly rushed. Overall, an enjoyable and insightful read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Al Capone Does My Homework?

Readers who enjoy historical fiction with a playful twist, such as those who liked Dead End in Norvelt by Jack Gantos or Three Times Lucky by Sheila Turnage, will appreciate Al Capone Does My Homework by Gennifer Choldenko. This novel combines mystery, humor, and history suitable for middle-grade audiences.

4.4

4,548 ratings

81%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Alcatraz Island • 1930s

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

570L

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