Alcatraz, a History of the Penitentiary Years
Book Title: Alcatraz, a History of the Penitentiary Years
Book Description: ALCATRAZ - the name alone said it all... It was meant to send a shudder down the spines of the nation's most incorrigible criminals. It stripped Al Capone of his power. It tamed "Machine Gun" Kelly into a model of decorum. It took the birds away from the Birdman of Alcatraz. When prisoners boarded the boat for Alcatraz, they knew that they had reached the end of the line. Not only was this the toughest of all Federal penitentiaries, but it was also said to be virtually escape-proof. The island was a natural fortress, separated from the mainland by a narrow strait of freezing water and deadly currents. This prison was the U.S. government's drastic answer to the lawlessness unleashed under Prohibition, which continued throughout the "Roaring Twenties" and into the teeth of the Great Depression. Alcatraz, with its damp cold and austere isolation, its rigid discipline and strict rule of silence, was as tough as the criminals that were sent there, and by the time the prison closed down in 1963, "the Rock" had indisputably done its job.
Book Author: Michael Esslinger
Book Format: Hardcover
Publisher Logo:
ISBN: 978-0970461469
Number Of Pages: 610
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Positive Messages
(4.5)
A good book for history buffs interested in Alcatraz
When I went on a tour to Alcatraz, I bought Alcatraz, a History of the Penitentiary Years by Micheal Esslinger in the gift shop. The book provides a comprehensive look at the infamous American prison from its construction to its close. Author Esslinger takes a detailed, and thoughtful look into the mysterious history of Alcatraz island and the prison housed there. I don’t think I would have picked up this book had I not been on the tour, but I did learn a lot about the prison and the infamous legends who spent time there. The book does contain some disturbing content, so I would recommend it for ages 12+. I read it once but can’t say I have gone back to reread it as I do with other books, but I still feel as if I remember a lot of the details in the book. This is a great read for history buffs and others interested in knowing more about Alcatraz. 4.5 out of 5.
Overall
4.5