In March 2010, I read AL CAPONE DOES MY SHIRTS by Gennifer Choldenko to my fourth graders. The students were fascinated by the book. Most of them had little knowledge of the 1930's. By reading the story, we had an opportunity to discuss the differences between current day behavior (language, dress, actions) with what would have been the norm in 1935. Additionally, our school has a significant number of students with Autism which also means we have a number of students that are siblings of a child with Autism. Moose's (the main character) struggles with his sister, Natalie, was touching but very real to many of our children. When we finished the book, everyone was eager to find out what happens to Moose, Natalie, Theresa, Piper and the others.Note: Review to follow when we are finished.
