~ 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 reading
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
I read this book with my fifth graders several years ago and they loved it. I particularly was moved by the the main character, Maniac. Thanks for sharing!
Fifth grade is perfect for this book. Glad you enjoyed the review!