Al Capone Throws Me a Curve

By: Gennifer Choldenko

Narrated by: Kirby Heyborne, Gennifer Choldenko

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 lives on a famous island in California: Alcatraz, home to some of the most dangerous prisoners in the United States in the 1930s. It's the summer before he starts high school, and Moose is going to play a lot of baseball and win a spot on the high school team. But he still needs to watch his special older sister, Natalie--and then the warden asks Moose to look after his two-faced, danger-loving daughter, Piper.

In the cell house there are rumors that the cons will a strike, and that Moose's father might step up to a new job. Moose is worried: What will this mean for their family, especially for Natalie, who's had some scary run-ins with prisoners? Then the unthinkable happens: Natalie winds up someplace she should never, ever go. And Moose has to rescue her.

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

Critic reviews

"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


Praise for the previous three Al Capone books:

A Newbery Honor Book

"Choldenko hits a grand slam." —Kirkus Reviews, Starred review

“Funny situations and plot twists abound!” —People

"Heart-stopping . . . heartrending . . . heartwarming." —San Francisco Chronicle

"Rich characterization, tender drama, and sleuthworthy clues, this poignant mystery makes for a thoroughly satisfying conclusion to the landmark historical trilogy." —Booklist, Starred review

"Choldenko continues to infuse the Alcatraz community with warmth and originality." —Publishers Weekly, Starred review

"Choldenko's storytelling is compelling, portraying human decency as a force more powerful than heroism." —Newsday

Fantastic series

My 11 year old and ai loved this series. Memorable and three dimensional characters and lot of cliff hangers.

great book great storyline

The book was a short but great read. It had a great a storyline if you read this I suggest that you read the books before it but you can read it alone.

Great Ending to the Series

This series is so good! This book ties it up nicely. You really get to know the characters, and Kirby Heyborne does a great job bringing them to life. I was sad to see it end, but I think Gennifer Choldenko did the ending justice.

Enjoyed this!!!

Perfect ending of Gennifer Choldenko series. Thank you Gennifer. You could see the action in your mind as you listened to audiobook.

Sublime Writing

Amazing writing,memorable story and characters. Listen to the whole series. It will move you. Excellent