The Gardener of Alcatraz: A True Story

by Emma Bland Smith

Book Overview

A prisoner gardens his way to freedom in this inspiring picture-book biography.

When Elliott Michener was locked away in Alcatraz for counterfeiting, he was determined to defy the odds and bust out. But when he got a job tending the prison garden, a funny thing happened. He found new interests and skills--and a sense of dignity and fulfillment. Elliott transformed Alcatraz Island, and the island transformed him.

Told with empathy and a storyteller's flair, Elliott's story is funny, touching, and unexpectedly relevant. Back matter about the history of Alcatraz and the US prison system today invites meaningful discussion.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1623541603
• ISBN13: 9781623541606
• Release Date: April 2022
• Publisher: Charlesbridge Publishing
• Length: 40 Pages
• Weight: 1.20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 11.2" x 8.6"
• Age Range: 7 to 10 years
• Grade Range: Grades 2 to 5