Crispin:The Cross of Lead by Avi

Genre: Historical Fiction
Themes: Death, Poverty, Relgion, Fuedalism, Coming of Age, Crime, Betrayal
Grade Level: 6-8
Curricular Connections: History (Fuedalistic Society, Late 14th Century, The Revolt, The Plague), Religion (Religion/Government in the 14th Century)

This story starts on a very dismal day as our main character is burying his mother. He is a serf in a fuedalistic society, has no family, no money, and is bound to the land. He is so poor, he doesn't even have a name. In his despair he overhears, but does not understand, a conversation the uncompassionate steward of his village has with a stranger. The next thing he knows is that his home has been destroyed, he has been charged with a crime he did not commit, and he has been declared a wolf's head, meaning anyone can kill him and not be punished. With help from the village priest and midwife, he escapes from the village with confusing information about his mother that he must make sense of as he goes into a world he knows little about. He also learns that he was given a name of nobility at his chistening, Crispin. As Crispin flees for his life, he meets Bear, who teaches him about the world, helps him uncover the mystery of his family, and gives him a love of music.

Sequel: Crispin: At World's End

Classroom Suggestions:

1. Students could do various historical research before reading the novel for a deeper understanding of setting, characters, and plot. The topics for research are 14th Century Religion, Fuedalism, The Plague, The Revolt that takes place during the late 14th century as well as other historical figures mentioned in the book such as John Ball, The Duke of Lancaster and King Edward III.

2. In Religion students could compare Christian beliefs of the late 14th century with Christian beliefs today. They could talk about which would be a more comforting and faith inspiring environment to live in.

3. As a current events topic, students can discuss the issue of church and state in the 14th century and how our governmental system compares today. They could share their views of the pros and cons of each system.