Crispin: The Cross of Lead (2003)

A master of breathtaking plot twists and vivid characters, Avi brings the full force of his storytelling powers to the world of medieval England.

Asta's son is all he has ever been called. This thirteen-year old boy is accused of a crime he did not commit and has been declared a wolf's head. That means he may be killed on sight, by anyone. He is forced to flee for his life. Before leaving, he learns his true birth name from a priest and goes in search of his true identity. All the boy takes with him is a newly revealed name, Crispin, and his mother's cross of lead. Crispin is gradually drawn right into his enemies' fortress where he must become a different person if he is to save Bear's life, a man he met in his travels, and his own. He discovers that by losing everything, he has gained the most precious gift of all: a true sense of self.

Winner of the 2003 Newbery Medal