5th Graders Read, Run Away and Revolt with Crisipin

Hello Readers!

This week 5th graders are meeting to discuss Crispin: The Cross of Lead by Avi. This book takes place in 1377 England, also known as the Medieval period. The main character, known as “Asta’s son,” has no name and lives life as a poor peasant. But this 13-year-old boy who thought he had little to lose soon finds himself with even less—no home, family, or possessions. Accused of a crime he did not commit, he has been declared a “wolf’s head.” That means he may be killed on sight, by anyone. If he wishes to remain alive, he must flee his tiny village. All the boy takes with him is a newly revealed name—Crispin—and his mother’s cross of lead. His journey through the English countryside is amazing and terrifying, as he is forced to become a servant, encouraged to think for himself, and become someone he never thought he could be.


History and masterful storytelling come together in this Newbery-award winning book by Avi. Discussion questions and background information can be found here. Remember to visit the Grade 5 page as well to learn more about the feudal system, the Black Death, and the Peasant's Revolt of 1381.

Happy reading!

Fourth Graders Find Ways To Deal with Worries (and Maybe a Bully)

Hello Readers!

• Have you ever had worries (about homework & tests & strict teachers) before the start of a school year?
• Have you ever felt stuck when trying to  make a decision that would make everyone happy?
• Have you ever felt like you maybe one of your friends might be a little bit of a bully sometimes?

That is what our main character, Justin Krzeszweski, aka Justin Case, is dealing with at the start of his 4th grade school year. Still, Justin believes he can start fourth grade without being such a "worried kid." But when things start changing with some of his friends, he isn't sure what to do - branch out with new friendships, or stay loyal to old ones. Maybe there is a way to do both. Or maybe not, especially if a friend maybe becomes a bully.

Fourth grade book club members will meet in the Big Woods pod at 8:00 AM on December 8 to discuss Rachel Vail's Justin Case: Rules, Tools, and Maybe a Bully. Please remember to bring your book to the meeting. If you would like to preview our discussion questions, click here. You can also visit the grade 4 page for more links to ideas about anti-bullying, Gandhi, and aliens who like candy.

Happy reading!