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Book Summary

Reviewed by Matt Berman

A homeless orphan becomes a legend in a town divided by racism in this sometimes funny, sometimes moving, always exciting story. Jeffrey Magee's exploits may have made him famous, but reconciling a town filled with hate and finding a decent life for himself may be more than even he can manage.

Is It Any Good?

5

One of the greatest Newbery winners ever, Jerry Spinelli's MANIAC MAGEE is a riveting story, swinging between joy and sorrow, that works on many levels: as a realistic novel, the recounting of a legend, and a no-easy-answers statement on race relations. The ending shows the possibility of some personal happiness for Jeffrey, but offers no pat answers to the town's racial problems. There are heroes and monsters on both sides, and Jeffrey is able to find, even in the most hate-filled among them, redeeming qualities and humanity.

But while Jeffrey makes a difference in the lives of many, the reader is forced to realize that the idea that he can somehow bring about a reconciliation between the races is naive. The secondary characters are well drawn and appealing, the story is exciting, and the ideas are thought-provoking. And the book offers little moments that, though understated, are sometimes uplifting, sometimes heartrending, but always involving. This book should not be missed.

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