Maniac Magee: A TPN Book Review

~ Alone and Homeless ~

Maniac Magee, the main character in Jerry Spinelli’s Newberry award-winning middle grade novel is a young runaway, homeless white boy who finds friendship in the black community with a warm loving black family during the Depression. The book deals with bullying, poverty, racism, and compassion and while it may not appeal to some adults because of the lack of complexity, it is much beloved by children.

Before readingManiac Magee Book review

What would you do if you were all alone and homeless?

How would you survive?

After Reading

Why did Maniac Magee leave the West End? Who are the victims, bystanders, and allies in this story? Do the characters change any of these roles over time?

Follow up Activities

Teacher’s Guide: http://www.carolhurst.com/titles/maniacmagee.html
Challenging prejudices: http://www.classzone.com/novelguides/litcons/maniac/guide.cfm
Visit TPN Anti-Bullying Page to find more activities and suggested readings about bullying and racism

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We offer books, activities, lesson plans, and ideas that teachers, parents, and students can use to promote values, attitudes and behaviors which encourage non-violent resolution of conflict, respect for human rights, democracy, intercultural understanding and tolerance.

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