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Al Capone Throws Me a Curve

by Gennifer Choldenko

Part of the Tales from Alcatraz series

Subject
Historical - United States - 20th Century
Age
6-8 years
Format
Trade Paperback
Pages
240
Publisher
Yearling Books
Size
12.9 cm × 19.3 cm
ISBN
9781101938164
Return to Al Capone's Alcatraz with Newbery Honor-winning author Gennifer Choldenko in this charming addition to the beloved series about the son of a prison guard.

Moose Flanagan's father is the assistant warden of Alcatraz--the roughest hard-time prison in America--so he and his family live on the island. It's the summer before high school, and he is desperate to get on the baseball team. The problem? The captain will only let Moose and his best friend on if they get him something from Alcatraz--something impossible.

Meanwhile, Moose must keep an eye on his fragile older sister, Natalie, as well as the warden's two-faced, danger-loving daughter, Piper, who has a crush on him. He must learn to stand up to people: His parents. The warden. Piper. Even the most dangerous criminal in the country--Al Capone. And then Moose gets the pitch of a lifetime and delivers a hit no one on Alcatraz will ever forget.

Don't miss the rest of the Tales from Alcatraz series!
Al Capone Does My Shirts
Al Capone Shines My Shoes
Al Capone Does My Homework

Data provided by BiblioShare.

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What reviewers said

"This worthy 'second ending' finishes on a hopeful note that series fans will embrace."
Booklist, Starred review
"It's earnest Moose, always striving to do the right thing, who elevates this tale, like a hard-hit baseball, into the stratosphere."
Kirkus Reviews, Starred review
"A powerful story of love and family that will please fans and newcomers."
School Library Journal
"Choldenko continues to effectively develop the vivid historical setting (explained in greater depth in the back matter) as well as the tightly woven community."
The Horn Book Magazine
"Choldenko hits a grand slam."
Kirkus Reviews, Starred review
“Funny situations and plot twists abound!”
People
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© 2026 Peekabooks Inc. All Rights Reserved.