Al Capone Does My Homework

In the 1930s, Moose Flanagan and his autistic sister, Natalie, live on Alcatraz Island, in the San Francisco Bay; their father works at the island’s infamous prison. But after his dad is promoted to associate warden and a mysterious fire strikes the Flanagan home, Moose receives a mysterious note concerning his father’s well-being from infamous gangster Al Capone. This fun novel set in the 1930s from Choldenko is brought to life via an inspired reading from narrator Kirby Heyborne, who’s youthful tone is a perfect match for Moose. Heyborne’s reading is flawless from start to finish; his delivery is well paced, and his pronunciation perfect. Heyborne’s character voices don’t differ greatly, but they’re all believable and immediate. Ages 10–up. A Dial hardcover. (Aug.)