Lara's Gift - by Annemarie O'Brien

Photo Credit: Penguin Random House

Title: Lara’s Gift

Author: Annemarie O’Brien

Grade Level: 7&8th

"Lara's Gift" will capture the heart and attention of any dog-loving reader. Set in Russia, the book follows the joys and heartbreaks of Lara - daughter to the Count's borzoi kennel steward. The book paints a clear picture of the beauty of borzoi dogs, as well as the challenges of life in Imperial Russia. The beliefs of the people are quite confusing...a mix of Catholicism and mysticism. The gift spoken of in the title is Lara's visions that she receives of things to come. This book is a wonderful read for a child who can freely discuss questions and concerns with their parents. It is not particularly well suited, though, for a Christian school library.