Varenka

Living alone, deep in the forest, Varenka has all she needs to live a life of peaceful contentment until suddenly the sounds of war ring out in the distance. Those from nearby communities urge her to flee, but she chooses to stay put. Who will care for those who have no shelter or food to fill their empty bellies if she doesn’t? She prays the Lord will build a wall of protection around her house, shielding those within its interior from the outside dangers of war. When her prayers go unanswered, her fear escalates, yet she continues to provide for others. In the end, God finds a way to nestle them all into safe refuge.

This is a unique story about hope, generosity, and faith. Varenka is a widow residing in the Russian woods during a period of inner-turmoil. Things are quite primitive, so the setting and circumstances offer children a glimpse back in time. Varenka’s altruistic nature as well as her unbreakable conviction make this a tale of genuine goodness. In elementary schools where Christian principles are valued, this is a prime pick for language arts instruction and small-group classroom discussions. Young ones ages five to nine will find it both enlightening and inspiring.