"Former Alcatraz Island volunteer and seasoned author Kristen Tracy takes young readers on an adventure through the historic prison's grounds in this dynamically illustrated book packed with interesting facts and important stories. From individual cells in the Main Cellhouse to the ruins of the Warden's House, readers will get an in-depth tour of the island and its buildings. Tracy also shares important stories about how Alcatraz got its name, famous escape attempts, the gardens and the birds of the island, as well as the Native American groups who once occupied "The Rock." Award-winning illustrator Anika Orrock highlights the island's beautiful (and also grim) history with stunning artwork that brings to life this mysterious island. Author Kristen Tracy brings her personality-filled writing to a classic topic sure to be a hit with young readers. Written with a sharp eye for detail and an occasionally comedic voice, this book provides curious kids with a compact yet thorough history of America's most notorious prison island"--Provided by publisher.

Introduction to Alcatraz Island -- How did Alcatraz get its name? -- Was Alcatraz really a military fort? -- When was Alcatraz a military prison? -- What kind of criminals ended up on Alcatraz? -- What buildings were built on the island? -- What types of jobs did the prisoners have? -- Who were the most famous prisoners on Alcatraz? -- Why did Al Capone get sent to Alcatraz -- Are there really dungeons under Alcatraz? -- What is the most famous Alcatraz escape attempt? -- Did anyone ever escape by raft? -- Were any prisoners executed on Alcatraz? -- Why are there gardens on Alcatraz? -- Why did the prison close? -- When did Indians of all tribes occupy Alcatraz? -- Why were so many buildings on Alcatraz destroyed? -- Do people really swim from Alcatraz to San Francisco? -- Did prisoners ever return to Alcatraz as tourists? -- Could Alcatraz ever be a prison again?.