Crispin

Starred review from October 1, 2006
Gr 5-9-At the conclusion of "Crispin: The Cross of Lead" (Hyperion, 2002), Crispin and Bear have escaped and are enjoying their hard-won freedom, planning to resume their 14th-century lifestyle as traveling minstrels and jugglers. But that freedom doesnt last long because they soon find themselves hunted again by men who believe Bear to be a traitor to the Brotherhood (which is planning a revolt against the oppressive rulers of England). And, with Bear severely injured, Crispin has to make crucial decisions about their future, which for Bear means confronting the sins of the past. The thoughtful introduction of Troth, a disfigured girl, and the trios fearful journey across the Channel add historical relevance and bring home a critical lesson in tolerance. This second book in a planned trilogy explores even more thoughtfully the themes of religion, war, the motives of men, and the meaning of family. This is an extraordinary work of lyrical simplicity, nearly flawless in its execution, and a haunting tale of love and loss. Readers will devour this story and eagerly anticipate the conclusion of Crispins adventures."Melissa Moore, Union University Library, Jackson, TN"

Copyright 2006 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from September 15, 2006
Avi's engrossing follow-up to his Newbery-winning " Crispin: The Cross of Lead" (2002) begins with Crispin and his father figure, Bear, tasting freedom briefly before Bear is recognized and shot with an arrow. Fleeing into the forest, they meet Troth, a girl shunned because of her cleft lip. Her protector, old Aude, nurses Bear's wound, but when villagers brutally turn against Aude, Crispin and Bear must flee again, this time with Troth. The three, now a family, make a stormy voyage to Brittany, where English soldiers force them to help in a ruthless attack on a church. Unlike many stories set in the Middle Ages, this novel doesn't romanticize the era; instead, it portrays England and France as places where poverty, superstition, and violence were commonplace. Crispin, Bear, and Troth face each new situation with dread born of painful experience, well aware that the people they meet are as likely to harm them as to help them. The love connecting the three main characters is so vital that maintaining the bond and protecting each other become driving forces in their choices. Along with plenty of action and adventure, this displays a solid emotional base. The combination will make fans eager for the final installment.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2006, American Library Association.)

January 1, 2007
Picking up where [cf2]Crispin: The Cross of Lead[cf1] left off, this tale, which reeks with fourteenth-century detail, finds Crispin and the minstrel Bear making their way across the English countryside, one step ahead of Bear's former confederates, who are certain he has sold them out. The somber ending leaves Crispin with the determination to live free. An author's note provides historical context.

(Copyright 2007 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)