The Gardener of Alcatraz: A True Story [Elliott Michener]

Ages 7 to 10, Grades 2 to 5

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.

Story Locale: Alcatraz, San Francisco, California

About the Author

Emma Bland Smith thinks the best thing about writing books is getting to visit lots of cool places for research—like Alcatraz. She is a public librarian, a book blogger, and the author of many children’s books, including Journey: Based on the True Story of OR7, the Most Famous Wolf in the West.

Jenn Ely loves a well-told story. She works on animated projects for film and television and illustrates books, such as If You Were a Kid Building a Pyramid. Jenn believes in trying things that might not work because that’s what makes you grow. www.jennely.com @elyjenna

Author Residence: San Francisco, CA

Author Hometown: San Francisco, CA

Jenn Ely loves a well-told story. She works on animated projects for film and television and illustrates books, such as If You Were a Kid Building a Pyramid. Jenn believes in trying things that might not work because that's what makes you grow. www.jennely.com @elyjenna

Illustrator Residence: Portland, OR

Illustrator Hometown: Portland, OR