Miscellaneous
How old is Maniac when he runs away?
Three years old (after living with his aunt and uncle for eight years, making him around 11 during the main story).
How did Maniac Magee become an orphan?
His parents died in a car accident.
In which town does most of the story take place?
Two Mills, Pennsylvania.
What does "legend" mean, as used to describe Maniac in the story?
A story handed down from the past, often exaggerated or mythical in nature.
Who is the protagonist of Maniac Magee?
Jeffrey Lionel Magee (Maniac Magee)
How does Maniac surprise everyone with his running ability?
He runs effortlessly and for long distances without getting tired.
How long does Maniac run away from his aunt and uncle's house before he is first seen in Two Mills?
One year
Where does Maniac first meet Amanda Beale?
On her way to school in Two Mills, pulling her suitcase of books.
What does the word "befuddled" mean, as used in Chapter 6?
Confused or perplexed.
Who are Aunt Dot and Uncle Dan?
They are Jeffrey's aunt and uncle, whom he lived with before running away.
What is unusual about how Maniac interacts with people on both the East and West Ends of town?
He interacts with everyone equally, regardless of race, which surprises people in the segregated town.
What does Maniac do that amazes everyone at the schoolyard in Chapter 5?
He intercepts a football pass and runs it to score a touchdown.
What is notable about the East End and West End of Two Mills?
They are segregated; the East End is predominantly Black, and the West End is predominantly white.
What is a "scraggly" person, as described in Chapter 1?
Someone who looks thin, untidy, or worn out.
Who is Amanda Beale?
A girl Maniac meets who carries a suitcase full of books.
What is the name of the baseball pitcher who is shocked by Maniac’s athletic ability?
John McNab.
Why does Amanda Beale agree to lend Maniac a book?
Maniac promises to take good care of it, and he begs her since he loves reading.
Where does Maniac sleep after he leaves his aunt and uncle's house?
Wherever he can find a place, including on benches, porches, and in parks.
What is the meaning of "pandemonium," as used when McNab loses control of the game?
Wild and noisy disorder or chaos.
What nickname do people give Jeffrey Magee?
Maniac
What animal does Maniac "unofficially" outrun while living in the town?
The town’s most feared dogs (though not specifically named, this is implied by his running abilities
What amazing feat does Maniac accomplish when he encounters John McNab?
He hits a home run off John McNab, who had been striking out every other player.
What major structure does Maniac cross when entering Two Mills for the first time?
The Schuylkill River Bridge.
Define "trestle" as it relates to the railroad tracks Maniac runs on.
The town’s most feared dogs (though not specifically named, this is implied by his running abilities).
What is the significance of Amanda Beale's books to her?
They are very precious to her because she is the only person in her family who cares about them, and she doesn't want them ruined.