Al Capone Does My Shirts - Gennifer Choldenko

The catchy title and the setting (Alcatraz/1935) are really just a hook to tell the story of a boy coping with a big move, an autistic older sister and a slightly dysfunctional family.  It's a good story and one that will perhaps shed light on a topic that many kids haven't thought much about.  There are some fun period and location details, but overall I was disappointed that the story wasn't more transportive.  Still, I think it's a good book and I particularly like how the author created a male character who loves sports, but is also deeply sensitive and conscientious.