Prisoner in Alcatraz

Gr 9 Up—Marty King has landed in the most famous prison in the world because of a bank robbery that went wrong. He is one of the "big boys" now, one of the "real hoods." The language has an old-timey feel. A few examples: "I ain't eating this pig's swill," "It made me look none too bright. As if I didn't have the smarts." Clichés about prison abound such as Taylor, a longtime prisoner telling Marty not to be too long in the shower, because "Pretty young boy like you. Some of these men haven't been near a woman for years, and they're not too choosy if you get my drift." Marty's there for life. Or is he? Cut Throat Carter has an escape plan and he needs Marty to crawl through the vents, make a soap copy of the key, and bring it back to him. Then they will bust out of the prison. Or will they? While there is some action, the bulk of the book is more of a mood period piece, a strange mix of soft scared-straight, and tough-guy talk. Younger, not-so-street-savvy students with reading challenges might love this book, as Alcatraz is a real draw, but the overall experience is lacking in emotion.—Amy Cheney, Alameda County Library, San Leandro, CA