Here's why:
* What counts as an idiom? Some phrases might be considered idioms by some people, but not others.
* The book's complexity: "Maniac Magee" is a children's novel, but it still has a fairly complex vocabulary, which could include various figurative language that might be considered idiomatic.
Instead of counting, it's more helpful to consider what purpose idioms serve in the book.
* Character voice: Idioms can help establish characters' personalities and backgrounds.
* Creating imagery: Idioms add vividness and color to the narrative.
* Conveying meaning: Idioms can quickly communicate complex ideas or emotions.
To find idioms in "Maniac Magee," you can:
1. Look for phrases that are not literal. Do they mean something different than their individual words suggest?
2. Consider the context. Does the phrase sound like something a particular character would say?
3. Pay attention to figurative language. Metaphors, similes, and proverbs can all be considered idioms.
By analyzing the book's use of language, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the story and its characters.