The Trumpeter of Krakow

1928. The story of Joseph Charnetski-Kowalski, a young boy living in Krakow, Poland, in 1461 who becomes the trumpeter and night watch at the famous Church of Our Lady Mary. Back in 1241, a young trumpeter who held this same position felt it was his duty to continue sounding his trumpet at the appointed times even as the city was being overrun by Tartars. In the middle of the tune, he was killed by an arrow. Ever since that event subsequent trumpeters have stopped at the same point in the Heynal as it is sounded four times on the hour, all day and night as a signal that all is well. In this story Charnetski continues this tradition, yet has to vary it in order to warn others of a crime. The book won the 1929 Newbery Medal for best contribution to American literature for children.