Avi. Crispin at the Edge of the World

[Mary]

The medieval time period is not my favorite time period to read about, and I'm often underwhelmed by sequels to award-winning books , but this book is an exception.

Set in the late 1300's, Crispin at the Edge of the World stands alone as a very well-written piece which I found to be even more compelling and powerful than its predecessor, CRISPIN: THE CROSS OF LEAD. (This is the 2nd in a series projected to be a trilogy.)

I'd love to hear what other people think of this title.

Warning: Not many books make me cry. The ending of this one did.

[DianeB]

I just joined as a member and saw the word "Crispin" and thought it was an old book. What a surprise to know it will be a trilogy. I thought the first one was "ok", I would have appreciated a stronger ending. But, I am willing to continue the series because I had grown attached to the characters. Unlike Avi's "Book Without Words". I could not create a bond with those characters.

[DianeB]

Yes, this was more compelling than the first. I just have one reserve...the use of religious phrases and saints. The constant reference to Jesus and praying to various saints may put off half of my students. My students have varied religious backgrounds and I don't want to offend anyone. Another "Yes" to crying at the end. I haven't cried like that since Theodore Taylor's "The Cay" (which should have won a Newbery Medal in 1970). PS Can't wait to read the third of the trilogy.

[martha]

I thought this book had so much promise in the beginning, but degenerated into "Let's see how much torture Bear can endure before he finally gets killed off." I can't imagine a third book without him! The final misfortune that caused his death DID seem a lot like a page form "The Cay", (which I also loved.) I really wanted to like this book, but it was ultimately too depressing for me.

[Tess]

A memorable book for one that is second in a trilogy. I have no qualms about the various prayers to saints since that practice would be consistent with the time period. I think kids of all faiths (or non-faiths) should be aware of how religions affect and are part of societies, both positively and negatively.

I found Troth to be a wonderfully compelling character. I was surprised that Cripsin and Troth were given so much time off from chores during their stay in Rye.

As for pushing for it as our Mock Newbery, I just don't feel it. But, then I didn't feel it for Crispin and the Cross of Lead.