• Bulk Order Discounts: Order 5 or more books (same title) and save 15%.
• Order Online: Order online with MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Discover, or PayPal.
• Order By Mail: Send your order with a school/district check. No personal checks accepted.

About the Book   Maniac Magee

Jeffrey Lionel Magee, known as Maniac Magee, is an orphan who runs away from his tense and unloving household with his Aunt Dot and Uncle Dan after his parents' death. His extraordinary adventures lead him to the town of Two Mills, where he becomes a local legend through his remarkable athletic skills and fearless nature.

In Two Mills, divided racially between East End (African American) and West End (white), Maniac crosses these boundaries effortlessly. He befriends the Beale family in the East End, demonstrating his ability to see beyond racial prejudices. Amanda Beale, one of his closest friends, introduces him to her family, who provide him with a sense of belonging.

However, his presence creates racial tensions, pushing Maniac to leave the Beales to protect them from threats. He continues to seek a place where he belongs, encountering various characters like Mars Bar Thompson, who transforms from a bully to a friend, and Grayson, an elderly former baseball player who becomes a father figure.

Grayson imparts valuable life lessons and offers Maniac stability, but his death leaves Maniac heartbroken. Despite this, Maniac's journeys continually bring him back to Two Mills, where he bridges the racial divide through his actions and friendships, becoming a symbol of unity and hope

Maniac Magee is a Newbery Medal winner.

Themes in the book Maniac Magee

Racism and Segregation: Maniac Magee addresses the issue of racism head-on. The town of Two Mills is a microcosm of larger societal issues, and Maniac's interactions reveal the deep-seated prejudices and barriers that exist. Through his eyes, students can explore the destructive nature of racism and the importance of understanding and empathy.

Homelessness and Belonging: Maniac's homelessness is a recurring theme in the book. His longing for a home and a family is palpable, making readers think about the meaning of belonging. Teachers can use this theme to discuss the impact of homelessness and the importance of community support.

Courage and Heroism: Maniac's actions, whether it's untying Cobble's Knot or standing up to bullies, exemplify courage and heroism. His fearlessness in the face of adversity serves as an inspiration, encouraging students to reflect on what it means to be brave and heroic in their own lives.

Activity Ideas    for the book Maniac Magee

Character Analysis: Create character maps for Maniac, Amanda Beale, Mars Bar Thompson, and other key figures. Have students analyze their traits, motivations, and development throughout the story. This activity can help students understand character complexity and growth.

Vocabulary Building: Compile a list of challenging words from the book and create vocabulary exercises. This can help students improve their language skills while staying engaged with the text.

Historical Context: Discuss the history of segregation in the United States and how it relates to the events in Two Mills. This can provide students with a deeper understanding of the social issues addressed in the story.

Author Study: Conduct an author study on Jerry Spinelli. Have students research his life, other works, and writing style. Understanding the author's background can provide insights into the themes and messages of Maniac Magee.

Community Service Project: Inspire students to take action by organizing a community service project related to the themes of the book. Whether it's volunteering at a homeless shelter or creating awareness campaigns about racism, these projects can reinforce the lessons learned from Maniac Magee in a tangible way.