Alcatraz Series :: Books 2 and 3 Review

Alcatraz Series Rating:

Author: Brandon Sanderson

Don’t be turned off by the silly sci-fi/fantasy covers. The Alcatraz series will revolutionize young adult fiction. The story follows Alcatraz Smedry as he learns the truth about his heritage and his abilities as an Oculator. Alcatraz was raised in the Hushlands (the world we call home), a place secretly ruled by evil Librarians. But now it’s time to face is true destiny and return to his real home in the Free Kingdoms.

Book 2: Alcatraz versus the Scrivener’s Bones

Alcatraz joins his pals aboard a glass dragon, planning to head for the Free Kingdoms. But there’s been a sudden change of plans: they head to the feared Library of Alexandria, where his father and grandfather are trapped. Somehow Alcatraz must rescue them without accidentally giving his soul to the skull-headed curators, and without getting killed by his pursuer—a Scrivener’s Bone.

Book 3: Alcatraz versus the Knights of Crystallia

Alcatraz finally reaches the Free Kingdom. He’s overwhelmed by the fame and fortune behind his family’s name, and it’s going to his head. Meanwhile, the King is preparing a truce with the Librarians. Alcatraz needs to forget his bursting ego, find the Librarians’ motivation behind the truce, and help his friend Bastille from being expelled from the Knights of Crystallia.

The Bottom Line

So what makes these books so revolutionary? It’s Brandon Sanderson’s twist on first person narrative. The series is a memoir of Alcatraz Smedry’s journey to the Free Kingdoms. Most chapters begin with a completely off topic, hilarious rant. Each page has one clever quip or sarcastic comment that will make you laugh out loud. Also, the Smedrys' each have a unique ability that is both a gift and curse, for example, arriving late to things or getting lost. This series deserves an award.

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