Crispin: The Cross of Lead

Avi. (2002)New York: Hyperion Books for Children. 078682647-9

PLOT SUMMARY

The year is 1377 and when thirteen year old Crispin's mother dies he is suddenly on the run from the steward of the village where he lives. He reluctantly teams up with Bear, a large mysterious man masquerading as a juggler. Bear knows about Crispin's birthright through the cross of lead he wears around his neck, and has to help keep him out of harm's way.

CRITICAL EVALUATION

Set in a time when peasants were often treated harshly, this book opens eyes to the injustices of the world. The hardships that Crispin must endure create a strong character with whom the audience can sympathize. He displays admirable traits such as cleverness, quick-thinking skills, and loyalty. His faith keeps him strong, and while religion is not something that is part of everyone's life, it is still something that a reader can appreciate when a character who can draw strength from it.

READER'S ANNOTATION

Thirteen year old Crispin is on the run. He's being hunted for a crime he did not commit, and to confuse the matter, the priest that he's accused of murdering was about to tell him something about who his father was. When he finds himself a servant to Bear, a wandering juggler, he learns more about himself and the reason why he is being hunted.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Avi is the childhood nickname and pen name for Edward Irving Wortis. He writes prolifically for different age groups and genres with at least 70 of those books for children and young adults.

GENRE

Realistic Fiction

CURRICULUM TIES

History

Research the lives of peasants, dukes, lords, etc. during the time when this story was set. Research the effects of plagues on cities and villages.

BOOKTALKING IDEAS

What would you do if you had to live life on the run? What would you do if you felt you had no one in the world you could trust? How could a 13 year old boy make it on his own?

READING LEVEL/INTEREST AGE

12-18

CHALLENGE ISSUES

Because of the time the book is set, there is also a lot of reference to religion. While it is not a book meant to be religious, there might be some conflict because of it, potentially in a school setting.

CHALLENGE DEFENSE IDEAS

Library's policies regarding choosing materials.

WHY INCLUDE THIS BOOK?

I liked when the book was set in time. It piques interest and curiosity in the past.