Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli

Carmen: Do you know what a legend is? In English class we read about the legend of Paul Bunyon, a giant lumberjack with superhuman strength. People would sit around campfires telling stories about Paul, who might have been based on one man or several men. With each story, Paul would grow in size and his feats would become more astounding. In Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli, twelve-year-old Jeffrey Magee becomes something of a legend in his own time. Some stories about Jeffrey have a bit of truth, while other stories about him are outrageously false. Spinelli's novel gives the real story behind this special kid. He may not completely live up to his legend, but he is unforgettable in his own way. So why is Jeffrey, nicknamed "Maniac," so special? Why does he get such a reputation in Two Mills, the town he begins to call home? For one thing, Jeffrey is different from other children. And we all know people love to gossip about those who are different! He's lived an unusually independent childhood—after losing his parents he drifts from place to place, occasionally getting help from people but mostly taking care of himself. This leads me to the second reason why Jeffrey is different. Because he is often on the outside looking in, he can see things for what they are. For example, he is confused by the racism that divides the town of Two Mills. He also sees special qualities in people that others do not see. Being in a separate world means he is both innocent and wise when it comes to dealing with people. You will enjoy reading about the adventures of Jeffrey, a.k.a Maniac, who is both fun and heroic. You will also learn lessons about human nature right along with him. Charles: I will write my review of this novel in a poem/folk song of my own. I know you can't hear it, but I am strumming my mother's guitar: Ode to Maniac Magee by Charles They call him Maniac Magee Oh yeah—he has a gift to see What is sort of cool and special in folks like you and me. He plays his sports just like a pro And people he meets, he gets to know. Nothing seems to frighten him. It seems the world is his own show. But troubles he has—they are many, not few. He runs from some homes and lives in a zoo. He learns about racism, loneliness, and death And must have the strength of not one kid but two. But living life as an outsider makes him just a bit wiser. He sees bad things for what they are, and helps some folks to be warmer and kinder. They call him Maniac Magee Oh yeah—he has a gift to see What is sort of cool and special in folks like you and me. The End Copyright © 2001 by Charles the Poet