In 1350, a boy with a large hump on his back becomes the servant of a shadowy pilgrim on his way to Rome, who pulls the boy into a dangerous expedition across Europe to gather the seven precious relics of Saint Peter.--Provided by Publisher. What a fine story this is! For who does not want to read about such things? A boy who can talk to animals. A terrifying, perilous journey full of bravery and daring. Knights and bandits and ghosts and thieves. Howling wolves, heroic donkeys, and a bag of bones. Lords, ladies, liars, and riches beyond compare. And mysteries and miracles - of the sort that concern the living and the dead. -- From dust jacket.