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A Truly Don’t-Miss Book – Maniac Magee

September 11, 2013 by still a dreamer

ManiacMagee-JSpinelli2How did Jerry Spinelli manage to cover the subjects of race, homelessness, bullying, friendship and the loneliness of the elderly all in one middle grade novel AND do it with humor, insight and compassion? This book was a revelation to me, and I highly recommend it to anyone who wants an excellent, (and fast), read even though it’s hero is 12 year old Jeffrey (Maniac) Magee.

I began to read Maniac Magee and found quickly that Maniac was into sports – how fast he could run, how far he could throw a football – and I thought it might not be for rather unsporty me. Was I wrong. It’s not about sports; it’s about an orphaned kid on his own who encounters a variety of life’s toughest situations, (aside from losing his parents), and how he deals with them. He finds more than his share of challenges, some friends and/or admirers along the way, and some pretty scary antagonists. Maniac/Jeffrey loses some of his naiveté but his optimism always prevails.

Spinelli writes in a beyond-engaging style. His word choices and phrases and his sense of humor had me turning the pages and never wanting to put the book down. Every character is developed beautifully, but of course, especially Maniac. It’s no wonder this book earned Spinelli a Newbery Award.

And what’s also surprising is that although Maniac Magee was written in 1995, it is totally contemporary. Somehow Spinelli wrote a timeless tale – almost a folk tale or legend – that is as meaningful right now – maybe even more so – as it was back then. I am in awe of this author and in love with this story. Walk – no, run – to your library or bookstore and get Maniac Magee.

p.s. I have also read Stargirl, Eggs and Milkweed by Jerry Spinelli – all worthwhile reads as well.

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Posted in Authors, Books, Children's Books, Creativity, Good Reads, Inspiration, Novels, Writing | Tagged bullying, Eggs, homelessness, Jerry Spinelli, Maniac Magee, Middle grade novels, Milkweed, novel, orphaned, Stargirl, writing | 2 Comments

2 Responses

  1. on September 22, 2013 at 7:06 am Professions for PEACE

    Thanks for sharing about this author, and this particular book! I am impressed with the important topics the author manages to touch on, and am happy to support him. Thanks again! Gina

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    • on September 22, 2013 at 12:42 pm still a dreamer

      My pleasure. Jerry Spinelli is truly an amazing author. I hope this has inspired you to read it whenever you next get to your library …

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