Monday, August 22, 2016

What 5 important events occur in Milkweed?

There are absolutely more than five important events in Spinelli's Milkweed, but I will name (and explain) the five most important for you.  First, we must consider the importance (and Misha's innocence) when he is asked his name by Uri.  Because Misha is an orphan boy with no identity, he says his name is "Stopthief," which is a reference to what people call him in his pursuit of survival (stealing).  Second, Uri (the leader of the group of boys) gives "Stopthief" his new identity:  Misha Pilsudski.  This is the first time this orphan has an identity and he clings to every detail of his new "story."  Third, Misha eventually meets Janina and becomes friends with her.  This friendship helps to establish more of an identity for Misha as Jewish (instead of being a Gypsy). Fourth, Misha travels with Janina's family into the Warsaw Ghetto as they are "relocated" during the Holocaust.  This innocent decision by Misha to remain with his friend compromises his safety.  Fifth, and possibly most importantly, is Misha's meeting with his granddaughter, Wendy, who finally bestows true identity (unknowingly) upon her grandfather by giving him the first family name he has ever known in his entire life:  Poppynoodle.

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