amazing

Maniac Magee
Jerry Spinelli, © 1990
children's fiction; 180 pages

Maniac Magee was my favorite book growing up. My 5th grade class read just finished reading this book together. While it was not everyones favorite we enjoyed it and had some great conversations. Here are a few choice excerpts from our final writing assignment where students were asked to describe what this book made them think about or a lesson learned.

...when someone gets tired of going to school or work I would say don't give up just keep on running, it will pay off for you one day.

[Maniac] is not doing it for fame, respect, or himself. He was thinking of others. I think that in the future, you should do more selfless acts and less selfish acts and think of others. That would probably make people friendlier.

I think the most important thing about a home is a family that cares about each other.

You should get your education so if you don't go to the pro's you can do anything else you want.

and my favorite...

Racism starts with ignorance. If you don't know what other people are like then just don't assume things about them. Try to get to know them.

Maniac is an orphan who runs away from his aunt and uncles house to a racially divided town. Through is adventures and friendships he is able to bring the town together and find a home of his own. I really enjoy reading this book with this age group because it covers great themes like friendship, family, racism, and acceptance.

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