#1 in Unsolved Case Files Series
Unsolved Case Files: Jailbreak at Alcatraz
on Goodreads (255)
What’s inside...
The second book in this graphic nonfiction series about real FBI cases is an account of an escape from Alcatraz, the infamous island prison.
CASE NO. 002: THE ROCK
June 12, 1962
SAN FRANCISCO BAY, CALIFORNIA
7:18 A.M.
A corrections officer at Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary tries to awaken inmate AZ-1441, Frank Morris. But when he shakes the unresponsive man, his head rolls off the pillow and crashes to the floor! Soon the guards realize that Morris and two other inmates, brothers John and Clarence Anglin, had done the seemingly impossible: escaped from the notorious island prison.
This is the true story of the daring and inventive escape and a decades-long manhunt in a case that remains unsolved to this day.
Discussion points
What do you think motivated the prisoners to attempt an escape from Alcatraz? How would you feel in their situation?
How did teamwork play a role in the prisoners' escape plan? Can you think of a time when you had to work with others to solve a problem?
What are the moral implications of trying to escape from prison? Do you think there are situations where it could be justified?
How do you think the story would change if it occurred in the present day? What modern technologies would alter the escape plan?
If you could interview one of the prisoners, what would you ask them and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading the book, discuss what your child already knows about Alcatraz and its history to build context.
Encourage your child to think critically about the characters’ decisions and motivations by asking them how they would react in similar circumstances.
While discussing the book, relate themes of teamwork and problem-solving to real-life scenarios in your child’s experiences to deepen their understanding.
Discuss the historical and ethical aspects of the story to help your child distinguish between past and present societal norms and values.
After finishing the book, encourage your child to imagine an alternative ending and discuss how different decisions could lead to different outcomes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving and critical thinking
Explanation: The book challenges readers to think logically and strategically to solve the mystery of the Alcatraz escape, mirroring the problem-solving skills required of detectives.
Real-World Application: Children can use these critical thinking skills in their academic and personal decisions, learning to evaluate options and consequences effectively.
Example Lesson: Historical awareness
Explanation: Set around the true historical event of the 1962 Alcatraz escape, the book educates children about this significant past event while engaging them in a thrilling narrative.
Real-World Application: Learning about real historical events can ignite a child’s interest in history, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the past as they relate it to the present.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: Characters in the book must work together to piece together clues, showcasing the power and importance of teamwork in solving complex issues.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of cooperating with others to achieve common goals, which can be applied in group projects at school or in community activities.
Example Lesson: Attention to detail
Explanation: The mystery-solving aspect of the book encourages readers to pay close attention to details for clues, emphasizing meticulous observation skills.
Real-World Application: By nurturing an attention to detail, children can improve their academic work and daily tasks by noticing and considering finer details and discrepancies.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: As the characters face setbacks but continue to pursue the truth about the escape, the story reinforces the value of determination and not giving up in the face of challenges.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to persist in their endeavors, whether it be completing difficult homework, learning a new skill, or resolving conflicts with peers.