Spinelli, Jerry. Milkweed. Laurel Leaf (2005). ISBN-10: 0439676959

Plot Summary

Set in Warsaw, Poland, in 1939, Milkeed is about an orphaned boy who lives on the streets during World War II. Because he has no information about his origins, he comes to identify himself with the many names he’s called: “Stop! Thief”, “Jew”, “Gypsy.” He steels food and is constantly on the move just to stay alive. Over time, an older orphan boy names him Mischa and teaches him how to successfully survive in a world that seems completely and utterly unreal.

Critical Evaluation

Jerry Spinelli does an amazing job showing readers what life during the Holocaust was like. Told through the eyes of young Mischa, this historical event is represented through a variety of perspectives. Although there are certainly some parts of the book that would be inappropriate for small children, the majority of Mischa’s experiences are middle age appropriate (ages 11 and up). This book is easy to read and a wonderful resource for literature circle discussions.

Reader's Annotation

Seemingly oblivious to the horror and death surrounding him, Mischa, in Jerry Spinelli’s Milkweed, is a character that every reader will like.

About the Author

Jerry Spinelli was born in Norristown, Pennsylvania, in 1941. In 1957, Spinelli realized writing was his passion when his high school football team won a big game. While other students went to celebrate the occasion, Spinelli went home and wrote a poem. Without Spinelli knowing, his father took the poem to the town newspaper where it was later published. Although he did spend time as an editor for Chilton Company, he now spends his days writing full-time. Two of his books, Maniac Magee and Wringer, have earned Newbery Honor Awards.

Genre

Historical Fiction

Curriculum Ties

Language Arts, Social Studies

Booktalking Ideas

Before he became Mischa, he was known as “Stop! Thief!”, “Jew”, and “Gypsy.” Living on the streets during the Holocaust, Mischa is an orphaned boy who experiences this historical event in a unique way. Take the journey with him!

Reading Level/Interest Age

Young Adult, Grades 5+

Reason for Book Selection

I am a huge fan of Jerry Spinelli’s works. His books are extremely popular with both boys and girls, and I especially enjoyed Stargirl and Maniac Magee.