In Maniac Magee, the focus of naming and identity tie into the
theme of home and fitting in. When Maniac is at the Beales, he feels that
he has a home, and when he is home he is Jeffrey. "Jeffrey Magee," the
name, is all he has left of his parents. Outside of the home he is "Maniac,"
a nickname he does not want that other children do. Just as Mars Bar and
Giant John needed identity outside of the home, Jeffrey needed an identity
inside the home. This identity he needs ties into home so that can feel
secure and that he "belongs" somewhere.
- A.B., December 19, 1996
Page designed and maintained by:
A. Waller Hastings Northern State University
Aberdeen, SD 57401Last updated: July 2, 1999
