Smith, Emma Bland. Gardener of Alcatraz, The: A True Story. Jenn Ely, Illus. Biography. Charlesbridge, 04/2022. 40pp. $16.99. 978-1-62354-160-6. OUTSTANDING. GRADES 2-5.
This unusual picture book biography focuses on counterfeiter Elliot Michener, who was an inmate at Alcatraz in the 1940s; it is useful for fifth grade classrooms because it shows how criminals can reform and make something of themselves. The full-color gouache illustrations are somewhat cartoonish and give a good indication of what Alcatraz was like at that time. Back matter includes a timeline, b&w photos of Michener, a color photo of the gardens, more information on the topic, and bibliography. The back matter also discusses prison reform, racism, and other issues. Students studying local history can even use it for reports. Teachers could pair it with Choldenko’s Al Capone Does My Shirts (Putnam, 2004), or use it before a field trip to Alcatraz. This book contains California-specific content.
Penny Peck, San Jose State University, iSchool