63 pages 2 hours read

Jerry Spinelli

Maniac Magee

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1990

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli follows 11-year-old Jeffrey Lionel Magee, nicknamed Maniac, who runs away from his guardians after his parents' death and ends up in the racially divided town of Two Mills, Pennsylvania. There, he becomes a local legend as he faces various challenges and fosters friendships across racial lines, ultimately inspiring unity and acceptance. The book features depictions of racism and violence.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Jerry Spinelli's Maniac Magee is lauded for its compelling storytelling and strong thematic exploration of race and homelessness. Reviewers praise its relatable characters and impactful narrative. However, some critique it for occasional predictability and a somewhat abrupt conclusion. Overall, it is widely appreciated for its emotional depth and powerful messages.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Maniac Magee?

A reader who would enjoy Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli is typically between the ages of 9 and 12, appreciates stories with rich, character-driven narratives, and themes of racial harmony and homelessness. Fans of Holes by Louis Sachar and Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson will find this novel compelling.

RecommendedReading Age

8-12years

Lexile Level

820L

Book Details

Genre

Realistic Fiction

Children's Literature

Education

Themes

Society: Class

Identity: Race

Relationships: Family

Topics

Education