Crispin the Cross of Lead – Book Review
Newbery Medal Winner 2003, Crispin The Cross of Lead an action-packed historical novel set in the 1380 revolt by farmers in England. The protagonist is a thirteen-year-old farm boy only as "Asta's son known" (Asta will be boys), mother, because he never mentioned his own name was. In fact, he did not know he has a name, until his mother dies. The pastor baptized him and he reveals his first name was Crispin.
Even after Crispin's mother dies, theonly home he has ever seen it is burned to the ground. Crispin is forced to begin his life as a refugee for theft and murder. He is declared a "Wolf's Head" by the corrupt managers, John Aycliffe, for crimes he did not commit. This means that you can kill him like a common animal, and collect a substantial reward.
Feudalism is the way of life for many in the 14 Century England. There are countless low taxes paid by farmers and constant violence. People were either very bad or veryrich. Ordinary people no more to say about their fate. The church is not capable of protecting members of the community and is subject to many atrocities.
"The time of great millstone, what we like to dust kerneled wheat soil. The Holy Church told us where we were in the changes of the day of the year and daily in our work. Birth and death alone gave distinction to our lives, as we journey between the darkness from where we are destined to the darkness, where we had come to await verdictDay. "
There are many hunting scenes and revealed plans in the dark. Avi developed a series of compelling characters, but Bear, a traveling juggler, Crispin's exemption from the bounty hunters who will follow her everywhere. The relationship between the juggler and the farmer at the heart of the story.
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