1. If Grayson had survived, Maniac's life could have been drastically different. Consider how this might have influenced Maniac's efforts to unite the residents of the West End and East End.

2. The McNabs' comparison of black people to "today's Indians" is likely offensive to both black and Native American communities. Are there other ethnic groups today that individuals like the McNabs might stereotype in this way? Where do these groups reside?

3. The book mentions that elementary school girls in Two Mills still chant, "Ma-niac, Ma-niac, He's so cool . . ." Identify examples from the book that support this notion.

4. A year passes between Maniac fleeing Hollidaysbury and finally arriving in Two Mills. What might have happened during that time? How could he have managed to survive? Is this believable in today's context?

5. When Maniac successfully hits several of John McNab's pitches, McNab eventually pitches a frog, which Maniac also hits! How does the story justify such a cruel act? How might animal rights activists respond to this event?

6. Discuss the various incidents that led to Jeffrey Magee being nicknamed Maniac. Does the name seem fitting? Is there another name that might suit him better? Explain why.

7. When Maniac first stays with the Beales, Mrs. Beale refers to him as "the miracle on Sycamore Street." What makes him miraculous to her? Provide specific examples.

8. When Grayson reads his first sentence, "I . . . see . . . the . . . bail," Maniac whoops and Grayson yips. Why is this moment so joyful for them? How might Grayson's life have been different if he had learned to read earlier?

9. In response to Grayson's questions, Maniac explains how black and white people are similar. What examples does he provide? What other topics might he have discussed that could be more impactful?

10. Spinelli writes that Maniac observed, "the East Enders stayed in the east and the West Enders stayed in the west, and the less they knew about each other, the more they invented." Was this observation accurate? Why or why not? Can you think of similar situations in today's world?