The clue could be a wordplay on the character's name combined with a reference to crushing. Maybe it's a pun or an allusion to a famous scene where they crushed an object. It's hard to say for sure without more context.
The clues might involve descriptions of the man's appearance, personality traits, or his actions in the story. Also, references to other characters related to him could be part of it. Sometimes, symbols or objects associated with him could be the key.
Sometimes the clue could refer to the character's origin story or a key event. Like, 'Born on Krypton' which would likely mean Superman. Or, 'Bitten by a radioactive spider' for Spider-Man.
As I Lay Dying. This novel by Faulkner is set in the South and delves into themes like family, death, and the human condition. Faulkner's use of multiple narrators gives different perspectives on the events that unfold during the family's arduous journey with the coffin.
If it's about 'Jaws', a simple clue could be 'The main predator in Benchley's story (4 letters)', and the answer would be'shark'.
The clues could be related to the plot, characters, or the setting of the novel. Maybe something like 'First chapter event' or 'Protagonist's trait at the start'.
It could be related to popular young adult fiction books or authors. Maybe names like J.K. Rowling or Suzanne Collins.
The clues for novel work in a crossword could involve author names, titles of famous novels, or specific literary terms related to novel writing.
As I Lay Dying. It's a great Faulkner novel. The characters in the story are all dealing with their own issues while on this journey related to the death of Addie. It's a very deep exploration of human nature.
The clues could relate to Howard's personality traits, his actions in the story, or specific events involving him.
Some possible clues could be 'epic tale', 'lengthy narrative', or 'prolonged account'.