Crispin: The Cross of Lead by Avi

Could you ever imagine yourself living in 14^th century England, in a land of lords and bishops, knights and pilgrims, a  strange place eloquently landscaped with medieval castles and  cathedrals, small  towns  and....devastated by The Plague?  Avi's mystery, Crispin: The Cross of Lead, begins with a 13 year-old boy who lives in a poor peasant village. Soon after his mother’s death, the evil village steward, John Aycliffe, falsely accuses the young orphan of stealing and even murder. Afraid and  alone, Crispin flees for his life, through the vast wilderness to a nearby town, where he meets a large, gruffy street juggler who calls himself "Bear." Crispin, in fear for his own safety, reluctantly swears to become Bear’s servant. The mystery grows, as Crispin learns his friend is involved with an underground society and this digs them into a more dangerous plot.  Off they go together, anxiously in pursuit of freedom: Crispin, searching for his real identity, and Bear, defending his new friend and his own life as well. Terror at every corner, filled with complicated turns and twists, this adventure story is guaranteed to be a page turner for all ages.

Book reviewed by Darice C., Library Assistant