Maniac Magee | Social Sensitivity

Maniac Magee Social Sensitivity

Maniac Magee is a rich source of material to use with today's adolescents for several sensitive issues. The themes of homelessness, illiteracy, racism, the effects of ignorance, the difference one person can make, and common humanity among people are all a part of the story and the characters. Each is treated with sensitivity through the humor and action of the story. While the prejudice, racial slogans, and description of blacks as "today's Indians" may upset some, they do bring these issues to the forefront so that they can be faced by teachers, students, and parents.

There are few other issues dealt with through the story that could cause controversy. Religion plays a very small part in Maniac's life. He attends church with the Beales, where he enjoys hymns, the "Amens" from the congregation, and the "Hallelujahs" from the choir. Later, he teaches Grayson what the term Amen means,...
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