Spring 2024

The Ghostly Guide to Alcatraz

From the Set Eerie Expeditions Around the World

In the waters of San Francisco Bay stands a small, rocky island called Alcatraz. Nicknamed "The Rock," Alcatraz was the site of a Civil War fortress, a federal prison, and an occupation by American Indian activists. Now a National Historic Landmark, Alcatraz Island is rumored to be haunted! In this fascinating book, readers will learn all there is to see and do at Alcatraz. They'll discover its long, bloody history and meet notorious inmates of the prison including Al Capone and Robert "Birdman of Alcatraz" Stroud. A thrilling mix of fact, fable, and fun, this high-interest book is paired with accessible language that appeals to struggling readers.

Format List Price Your Price Qty
$28.27 $21.20
Interest Level Grade 3 - Grade 6
Reading Level Grade 1
Dewey Number 133.1
Lexile
ATOS Reading Level
Guided Reading Level J
Language English
Publisher Gareth Stevens
Format Reinforced book
ISBN 9781538291870
Copyright 2024
Number of Pages 32
Dimensions 6.5 x 9.125
Graphics Full-color photographs

Booklist Review of Eerie Expeditions Around the World

Welcome to Edinburgh Castle, an ancient fortification rumored to have more than a few ghostly residents. This entry in the Eerie Expeditions around the World (6 titles) series whisks readers to the titular Scottish fortress, dramatically describing it as the “most haunted place in Scotland.” After a brief history lesson about the castle, a roster of creepy characters gets its time to shine. There are ominous tales of a headless drummer boy, the restless spirit of a woman burned for witchcraft, and a ghost that can be smelled as well as seen, among other stories. Splashy photos and dramatic fonts create a wonderfully eerie atmosphere, and helpful back matter includes a detailed time line, a glossary, and further reading. The eerie subject matter is sure to enthrall any young reader who dares to dig in.

SLJ Review of Eerie Expeditions Around the World

Intrepid “travelers” will enjoy this spooky, well-written series that’s respectful of readers’ intelligence and is accessible to striving readers. Short, clipped sentences heighten tension, and each page contains a self-contained anecdote, rather than a traditional chapter organization. Some reports/stories are debunked where they’re known to be false. Historical background, including dates and atmospheric photos and illustrations, as well as paintings of alleged ghosts, put facts in context. Some of the famous names mentioned may not resonate with young readers. Overall, the series does a fine job piquing the audience’s interest and ramps up the eeriness factor effectively. The Gettysburg title reminds readers that visitors to the haunted site must remain respectful, as it’s a celebrated battlefield memorial. “Spooky Stories” sidebars provide additional facts and background information, and provocative questions. Back matter includes a timeline, a glossary, an index, and additional resources. VERDICT Fascinating; recommended for schools and public collections.

Author: Theresa Emminizer