The Gardener of Alcatraz: A True Story
By Emma Bland Smith
Illustrators
Illustrated by Jenn Ely
Edition
By Emma Bland Smith
Hardcover edition
Publisher Charlesbridge Imprint Charlesbridge ISBN9781623541606
The Gardener of Alcatraz: A True Story
17.55
Sold Out
SKU
9781623541606J
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. Thoughts of escape were replaced with 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.
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. Thoughts of escape were replaced with 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.
Time line. “And Then What Happened?” Further Information about Alcatraz and its gardens, with photographs. Author’s note. Selected bibliography. Full-color gouache and digital illustrations.
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PreK Standard MARC Records Cover Art |
Nonfiction Elementary Plus (Grades 3-5)
Nonfiction Elementary Plus
Nonfiction Elementary Plus (Grades 3-5)
For Grades 3-5
A thoughtfully curated collection of nonfiction picture books for older elementary readers. These titles explore a wide range of real-world topics through clear, approachable text and compelling visuals, supporting curiosity, comprehension, and independent learning. Ideal for research, classroom discussion, and personal discovery.
14 books per Year
$294.00 per Year
Interests
Nonfiction, Picture Books, Curriculum Support, Independent Reading
