Al Capone Shines My Shoes

Baseball looms large in Moose’s life on Alcatraz. Discuss the game’s importance to Moose’s sense of identity and well-being. Also discuss the ways in which his devotion to baseball creates tension in his life.

Moose has taken great risks to secure a place for his sister Natalie at the Esther P. Marinoff School, yet he dislikes visiting her there. Examine his complex feelings about the school and his reasons for sending her there.

Moose looks forward to visits from his school friend Scout, but his visits are never entirely enjoyable for Moose. In what ways does Scout create problems for Moose, and cause friction between Moose’s Alcatraz friends?