84 pages • 2 hours read
AviCrispin: The Cross of Lead
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2002A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In medieval England, a 13-year-old boy named Crispin is falsely accused of theft and murder after witnessing a secretive meeting. Pursued by the steward John Aycliffe, Crispin flees his village and ultimately encounters a wandering entertainer named Bear who becomes his mentor. The duo travels together, evading capture, and uncovering Crispin's hidden past, which is linked to powerful nobility. Mentioned themes include poverty, education, choice, and freedom, while the material addresses distress and combat-related deaths.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Avi's Crispin: The Cross of Lead is lauded for its richly detailed medieval setting and engaging, fast-paced plot. Readers appreciate the nuanced portrayal of societal struggles and Crispin's growth. Some critique the narrative's occasional predictability. Overall, it remains a compelling read for young historical fiction enthusiasts.
Who Should Read Crispin: The Cross of Lead?
Ideal for middle-grade readers and fans of historical fiction, Crispin: The Cross of Lead by Avi appeals to those who enjoy adventure tales set in medieval times. Comparable to The Book Thief by Markus Zusak and The Inquisitor’s Tale by Adam Gidwitz, this Newbery Medal-winning novel captivates with its blend of mystery and rich historical detail.
RecommendedReading Age
10-14yearsLexile Level
780LBook Details
Historical Fiction
Action / Adventure
Coming of Age / Bildungsroman
Medieval Literature / Middle Ages
Life/Time: Coming of Age
Natural World: Appearance & Reality
Values/Ideas: Power & Greed
Class
Depression / Suicide
History: European