The Edge of Lost by Kristina McMorris 327 pages

This is a story that begins in Dublin, Ireland, 1919, moves to New York, Leavenworth, Alcatraz Island, and back to Dublin, all so a young Irishman, Shan Keagan, can learn the true meaning of family.  Shanley Keagan was a twelve-year-old orphan, living in the care of his Uncle Will, a drunk on the dole.  Shan, a natural comedian and talented singer, was able to supplement their income by performing in pubs.  But when the dole dries up, Uncle Will decides they should go to America, in search of Shan's real father, an American sailor.  Uncle Will dies just as the ship docks at Ellis Island and Shan must rely on the kindness of strangers to survive in the United States.  He becomes a part of the Capello family and in a series of strange improbable events, Shan aka "Tommy" ends up in Alcatraz, the prison from which no one escapes! But Shan does indeed escape, and not alone!  No more spoilers......if you want to know the rest of the story, you will just have to read and enjoy!