Title: The Cross of Lead
Author: Avi
First published June 3, 2002
262 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780786816583 (ISBN10: 0786816589)
Rating: 3.64
Overview
In the heart of medieval England, a young boy known only as “Asta’s Son” lives a life of poverty with his mother. But when he is falsely accused of a crime and left with nothing, he must run for his life.
With only his mother’s cross of lead and a new name, Crispin sets out on a dangerous journey to uncover the truth about his past and clear his name. Along the way, he discovers the power of friendship, loyalty, and his own inner strength.
Will Crispin be able to survive in a world where danger lurks around every corner? Find out in the thrilling adventure, The Cross of Lead by Avi.
About the Author
Avi, whose real name is Edward Irving Wortis, has made quite a name for himself as a writer. Despite being born in 1937, his literary creations like The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle, Nothing but the Truth, and the Crispin series continue to be loved by readers of all ages.
Interestingly, Avi only uses this pen name and prefers it over his real name. His work has garnered a lot of popularity and is enjoyed by many.
Editoral Review
The Cross of Lead is a historical novel by Avi, first published on June 3, 2002. Avi is a prolific writer of children’s and young adult literature, with over 70 books to his name.
The Cross of Lead is a work of historical fiction set in medieval England, a time of great upheaval and social change. The book is aimed at middle school readers, but its themes and style make it an engaging read for anyone interested in historical fiction.
The story follows the journey of a young boy named “Asta’s Son” who is forced to flee his village after he is wrongly accused of theft. He discovers that he is actually a nobleman’s son and that his real name is Crispin.
With the help of a kind stranger named Bear, Crispin sets off on a dangerous journey to find his true identity and escape capture by the corrupt authorities.
The Cross of Lead is a gripping tale that combines adventure, mystery, and historical accuracy. The setting of medieval England is vividly portrayed, and the author’s attention to detail brings the story to life.
The characters are well-drawn, and the reader becomes invested in their journey. Crispin, in particular, is a sympathetic protagonist who is easy to root for.
One of the strengths of the book is the way it handles complex historical themes such as social inequality, religious conflict, and political corruption. Avi does not shy away from portraying the harsh realities of life in medieval England, but he also shows how individuals can overcome adversity and find hope in even the darkest of circumstances.
The writing style of The Cross of Lead is accessible and engaging, making it a great book for young readers. The pacing is brisk, and the plot keeps the reader engaged throughout.
The themes of the book are timeless and relevant, making it a great choice for readers of all ages.
However, there are some weaknesses to the book. The plot can be predictable at times, and some of the characters are not fully developed.
Additionally, the book does not delve deeply into the historical context, which may leave some readers wanting more.
Overall, The Cross of Lead is an excellent historical novel that is well worth reading. It combines a gripping plot with rich historical detail and engaging characters.
While it may not be a perfect book, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.
I highly recommend The Cross of Lead to anyone interested in historical fiction, and especially to young readers who are looking for an exciting and thought-provoking book. It is a great choice for classroom reading, and it would make a great addition to any personal library.
I would give The Cross of Lead a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
