After witnessing his father's crucifixion by Roman soldiers, Daniel bar Jamin yearns for vengeance. Consumed by hatred, he lives dangerously among outlaws in the hills outside of his village, spying and impatiently plotting.

In nearby Capernaum, a rabbi is teaching a different lesson. Time and again, Daniel is drawn to the teachings of Jesus of Nazareth, only to turn away, disappointed and confused by Jesus's lack of action in opposing the Romans. Headstrong and devoid of tenderness, Daniel is also heedless of the love and loyalty of those around him, dragging them along his own destructive path.

Winner of the 1962 Newbery Medal, The Bronze Bow is the story of a boy's tormented journey from a blinding hatred to the acceptance and understanding of love.