Alcatraz

Gr 3–6—These slim volumes provide basic descriptions of some famously haunted places around the world. Each book begins with a brief fictionalized scene in which readers find themselves at the notorious site, unsure of what will happen next. The narrative quickly moves on to give a historical overview of it, including any bloody events that may have taken place there. Most interesting are short anecdotes about hauntings and paranormal events that have been reported, both in recent history and in the more distant past. The text is peppered with highlighted words that are included in the glossaries, and the drawings and photographs are vividly colored and hauntingly creepy. Although these books are simplistic introductions to the places they describe, they would be useful additions for struggling or reluctant students interested in the topic.—Sarah Reid, Broome County Public Library, Binghamton, NY