Macaroni Boy
on Goodreads (327)
What’s inside...
Mike Costa has lived his whole life in The Strip, Pittsburgh's warehouse and factory district. His father's large Italian family runs a food wholesale business, and Mike is used to the sounds and smells of men working all night to unload the trains that feed the city. But it's 1933, and the Depression is bringing tough times to everyone. Money problems only add to Mike's worries about his beloved grandfather, who is getting forgetful and confused. Mike is being tormented at school by a loud-mouth named Andy Simms, who calls Mike 'Macaroni Boy.' But when dead rats start appearing in the streets, that name changes to 'Rat Boy.' Around the same time, Mike notices that his grandfather is also physically sick. Can whatever is killing the rats be hurting Mike's grandfather? It's a mystery Mike urgently needs to solve in this atmospheric, fast-paced story filled with vibrant period detail. From the Hardcover edition.
Age
8-12
Length
192 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Mike Costa
Mr. Costa
Nonna Costa
Andy Simms
Discussion points
Why do you think Mike calls himself the Macaroni Boy, and how does this nickname affect his relationships with others?
What are some ways Mike shows resilience and courage throughout the story?
How does the setting of the Great Depression impact the characters' actions and lives?
In what ways do Mike and his family show their love and support for one another during tough times?
What did you learn about friendship and forgiveness from Mike’s interactions with other characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate Mike's experiences to their own by asking how they would feel in similar situations.
Discuss the historical context of the Great Depression, explaining how it shapes the characters’ lives and choices.
Highlight Mike’s problem-solving skills and resilience, asking your child to think of times when they've had to be brave or solve a problem.
After reading, ask your child which character they felt closest to and why, fostering empathy and deeper understanding of the story.
Use the themes of friendship and forgiveness in the book to initiate a conversation about real-life scenarios where these themes play out.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: In 'Macaroni Boy', the protagonist, Mike Costa, deals with bullying and economic hardship during the Great Depression. Despite these challenges, he remains determined and resourceful.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to navigate personal challenges and setbacks with perseverance, mirroring Mike’s determination in their own lives during tough times.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: As Mike interacts with various characters facing their own struggles, he learns to understand and empathize with their situations.
Real-World Application: This book can help children appreciate the diverse circumstances of others and promote empathy in their interactions, fostering a more inclusive attitude.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and community support
Explanation: Throughout the story, Mike relies on his family and friends in his community to cope with the adversities he faces.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of having a support network and being supportive members of their own communities, enhancing their social skills and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving and critical thinking
Explanation: Mike uses his wits to solve problems, such as dealing with the bully and helping his family.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think critically and creatively in problem-solving, applicable in their daily encounters at school or home.
Example Lesson: Historical awareness
Explanation: Set during the Great Depression, the book provides historical context that educates about the past hardships and the resilience of people.
Real-World Application: Promotes an understanding of history and its impact on people’s lives, encouraging children to learn more about different historical events and their significance.