This is a charming story that just goes to show that, no matter where you live, a family is a family. I think that Frakes has an endearing drawing style and great enthusiasm for sharing some slice-of-life observations. And she provides a positive and realistic portrait of living in close vicinity to a prison. -Comics Grinder ... Read more Full of heart, humor and an interesting look at a typical teen living a not so typical life, Prison Island is a fun entry point into the memoir category. It's also a great book to put into the hands of reluctant readers.
Teen Librarian Toolbox Frakes's loose b&w cartooning and straightforward dialogue provide a solid sense of both McNeil's history and the peculiarities of life on a prison island (such as having to lock up pool toys that could potentially be used in an escape). . . the overall tone of the book is nostalgic and melancholy, a highly specific example of the idea that one can't go home again.
Publishers Weekly [A]n interesting look into a pretty unique childhood, and it's definitely worth a read for fans of graphic memoirs.
Stacked Books This memoir should appeal to middle grade and high school readers, especially those curious about different social structures and relationships and how the living environment influences them.
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