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The Gardener of Alcatraz
The Gardener of Alcatraz: A True Story | Emma Bland Smith
1 post | 1 read
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.
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LibrarianRyan
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4 ⭐This was a real person. Elliot was originally a criminal in Alcatraz for counterfeiting money. But he used his time wisely to learn a skill and grow not just a garden, but a love of gardening. This book is extremely well done. The story is engaging and interesting. I also like that this book shows there is life after prison. Rehabilitation is possible if allowed. Good things can come out of bad events.