For me the telling of this story was a little too quick.  It’s a fascinating period of history; I would have liked more detail and more length to develop the characters. In spite of the brevity it’s a great dog story about a time in Russia when Borzoi were bred by the nobility and used to hunt wolves. A young girl, daughter to the head of the Borzoi Kennels,  shows talent and passion for work with dogs; she also has visions. Her future is determined by the traditional expectations for women of the time and culture; her goal is to stay with the dogs she loves. Predictably, one special dog makes the difference. An especially good author’s note follows, explaining her personal  experience with Russian culture and Borzoi. I would recommend to anyone who loves dog stories, fourth grade and up, with guidance and two cautions. There are a few scenes where the dogs fight with wolves.  Also when Lara’s mother gives birth, a bizarre and medieval technique is used by the midwife. These descriptions are not over done, no special effects, but may be too much for very sensitive young readers.