4 out of 4 stars
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I was pleasantly surprised by Lydia's Gift written by Kimberly K. Schmidt. This book is the second in a series for young readers who can enjoy short chapter stories. The description stated that this title was geared for third or fourth-grade level students, but I could also see this being read by an adult to children in lower grades.
It is quite evident that the author has experience with farm living as she weaves a beautiful tale about a horse named Lydia who is born at Grayson Farm. While being the new foal in the group, she has to learn from the other barnyard animals how to fit in. All of the creatures in the story speak to one another, but the adults, Mr. and Mrs. Little, are not aware of this. They own two guard dogs, Bella and Jake, who keep watch over the property for predators and Puzzle the calico cat who always seems to be quietly observing. Also, there are two chatty crows, Zack and Mack, who perch near the farm to make sure that all is well.
Besides Lydia, there are a pair of horses, Maddie and Sally, who are inseparable and leave no room for a third friend. Samson, born around the same time as Lydia, is somewhat of a companion at first, until he decides that an older horse named Caesar is a better option. Because of this isolation, Lydia has no choice but to seek out advice from the cat, the dogs and the crows who teach her valuable life lessons. This further sets her apart from her own species and causes a bit of tension.
What I liked most about this book is that there is a secret that everyone is keeping from Lydia. Before the conclusion, it is revealed to her by her mother, but it is done with great compassion and love. I felt this was a wonderful example to teach children how to handle a sensitive subject with care. It expresses the idea that just because we know something doesn't mean we have to share it until the right time and in the best way possible.
Also, this story carries a powerful message that a personal flaw can always be used as a stepping stone to gain strength in other areas of life. Even though the plot of this is focused on animals, this easily could be applied to the human experience. Children who view themselves as weak or insignificant will find a spark of inspiration from a horse who makes a decision not to listen to the negative opinions of her peers. She forges ahead and grows into what she was destined to be. This self-empowerment is effectively displayed as Lydia pushes aside self-doubt and learns to trust her inner strength.
There wasn't anything about this book that I didn't like. I found three minor errors in punctuation but would have overlooked them entirely had I not been keeping an eye out for mistakes. The writing is not only inviting, but the black and white illustrations add depth to the story. I don't read a lot of children's books, but this one certainly grabbed my attention just in the sample pages. As mentioned at the beginning of the review, this is a series. However, this story can be read on its own without reading the first one. It was so well done, I think this author will gain quite a following.
For all of its glowing qualities, I award this a 4 out of 4 stars. Amazingly, I learned a few things from a horse named Lydia.
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Lydia's Gift
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