Crispin: The Cross of Lead

Crispin: The Cross of Lead by Avi copyright 2002 Newberry Award winner

I read this book a month or so ago. I found it at the Scholastic book fair at my children's school. Although labeled a "children's" book, I enjoyed it. There is a lot of good to be said about a quick read. The setting is medieval England countryside. The story begins with a thirteen year old boy burying his mother in a pauper's grave with only the town priest in attendance. The boy doesn't even know he has a name other than "Asta's son" which is what people have always called him. He is the lowest of the low on the social rungs of the little country town social ladder. One might think that he would just fade away for lack of a way to support himself, but rather than shrink into nothingness, the boy becomes the object of intrigue and must run away. Before he does, the priest tells him his name and tries to help him, but the priest is killed for his trouble.

The story moves along at a brisk pace with Crispin running for his life, finding a friend and protector and finally learning why he is in trouble in the first place. Although the storyline would like be more developed if it were a book written for an adult audience, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I think there is a sequel, but I haven't located it yet.

Fablehaven

Fablehaven by Brandon Mull copyright 2006

After finishing the Harry Potter series, I was in need of a fantasy fix. Fablehaven fit the bill as an easy to read, but fascinating story of magic, danger, and morality.

(Blurb from back cover)
"For centuries mystical creatures of all description were gathered into a hidden refuge called Fablehaven to prevent their extinction. The sanctuary survives today as one of the last strongholds of true magic. Enchanting? Absolutely. Exciting? You bet. Safe? Well, actually, quite the opposite. . .

Kendra and her brother, Seth, have no idea that their grandfather is the current caretaker of Fablehaven. Inside the gated woods, ancient laws keep relative order among greedy trolls, mischievous satyrs, plotting witches, spiteful imps, and jealous fairies. However, when the rules get broken-- Seth is a bit too curious and reckless for his own good -- powerful forces of evil are unleashed, and Kendra and her brother face the greatest challenge of their lives. To save their family, Fablehaven, and perhaps even the world, Kendra and Seth must find the courage to do what they fear most."

Although it starts a bit more slowly than some, the author does a great job of setting up needful background information that comes in handy when the going gets truly exciting. A great family read as it really brings out some important lessons about obedience and the protective influence it can be. This is the first book in a series that so far contains three books. I believe there will be more. I've read book 2 and enjoyed it more than the first. I haven't read book 3. . . yet.

Peter and the Starcatchers

Peter and the Starcatchers by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson copyright 2004

We listened to the audiobook while traveling to California this summer. When I checked it out of the library and noticed that it would take nine hours to listen to the whole thing, I knew Todd would be skeptical that the kids would stick it out to the end. Not only did everyone enjoy it, the time flew by. We were actually looking forward to the little around town trips so we could listen. It's a great family read.

The basis for the story revolves around the "beginnings" of the boy who eventually becomes Peter Pan. We are introduced to Peter and the other potential "lost boys" who are orphans being transported via a horridly filthy old ship to the infamous island of Rangoon to be servants to King Zarboff the third. Along the way they encounter stolen treasure (the most precious cargo ever to go to sea), Molly (a lovely and brave young lady), Black Stache (Capt. Hook figure) in all his evilness, heartless island natives, and a host of other interesting characters. The chapters rotate through the points-of-view of Peter, Black Stache, a vile sailor Slank, Molly, and others as the story moves along. The story is fast paced and intense. Boys will love the adventure and pirate moments.

I love the way Peter's character develops over the course of the story. He begins as a scrappy know-it-all type of child to one who cares about others and is willing to sacrifice for their safety and success. It moves Peter away from being the selfish innocent that is so often portrayed when the play is produced. I like thinking of Peter as a noble boy.

Black Stache's ferociously evil nature stands out in the story. If you ever harbored some sympathy for Capt. Hook, you certainly won't for Black Stache. His cunning and greed coupled with his disregard for any other living soul often shocks your sensibilities. I kept waiting for a bit of humanity to surface from Black Stache, but it never came. Excellent evil character!!!

According to my boys, "This is a good book!" I think they're right!!