Ages: 9-12
Genre: Realistic fiction, humor, Racism,
Plot:
A young white boy, named Jeffery Magee became orphaned at age three, and by age nine, he runs away from his argumentative relatives. Jeffery becomes homeless, but soon finds himself crossing into a small town near the white East End and the black West, which is segregated part of town, . As Jeffery searches for a home, he runs into Amanda Beale, who carries books in a suitcase. After struggle, and a few arguments, they become friends, and Jeffery is welcomed to stay at the Beale's house--a temporary home. That is, until the neighborhood begins to vandalize the Beale's house--targeting Jeffery, due to racism. Jeffery strives to change the people around him and makes efforts to gain acceptance in a both communities. With his amazing athletic abilities, such as intercepting a football, hitting home runs in baseball, and saving a child from the dreaded backyard of Finsterwald, his name "Maniac Magee" becomes a legend and he strives to unite the town.
Review:
Maniac Magee is a humorous story, with realistic issues. Jeffery Magee is a young white boy who is considered to have extraordinary talent and has wisdom, which is rare for a young boy. The story’s genre is realistic fiction because there are important issues that happen in the book, such as the death of Jeffery’s parents, homelessness, and no schooling. In a way this book is similar to Huckleberry Finn—a boy who does not go to school, but learns to read. There is a hero theme within the chapters, as Jeffery is able to run extremely fast, he is charming to adults, and is willing to help anyone in need. The chapters are fast-paced and short, so this is a great book for reluctant readers.
Awards:
Newberry Award
Author: Jerry Spinelli has written over 15 popular books for young readers. He has won Newberry Medal for Maniac Magee and Wringer and his website is www.jerryspinelli.com.
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