The author of the 2003 Newberry Award Winning Book, Crispin: The Cross of Lead discusses what it takes to be a writer. At his home in Denver, Colorado, Avi also talks about the inspiration behind some of his most popular books. -20 mins
Awards Portfolio Winner -Media & Methods Magazine Highly Recommended Title at Educational Media Marketplace, 2005

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Topics for classroom discussion and assignments:

• In “Crispin,” Avi writes about 14th century England. Discuss, and then write about, what life was like in medieval times.

Topics can include: Was life harder than or harder now? What was it like to be a kid in those days? Were people free back then?  How did poor people spend their days?  How did rich people spend theirs? What was mealtime like, and what types of food was served? (You can do research to learn more about daily life in medieval times.) 

•  Write a short story about an average boy or girl in the 14th century, and explain what their day was like, from the time they get up until the time they go to sleep.

•  Discuss in class what Avi believes are the secrets to good writing. Make a list of writing tips and keep it in the front of your notebook to refer to as you write.

• Add to your list of writing tips, as you watch additional programs in the “Good Conversation!” series.