Reviewed by:Norlan
De Groot Key words: World Literature,
Russian Literature, Novel, Modern Work, Fiction
Recommended Reading Level:
Grades 5, 6
Theme: Everywhere there
is life and everywhere there are warm human hearts.
Summary: Turgen, who lives
in the mountains in northeastern Siberia, finds new meaning in life by
defending a herd of mountain goats and befriending a widow and her two
children.
Strengths: The book is a
touching story about a simple man who discovers the true wealth of life
in simple pleasures and honest dealings with people.
Weaknesses: The language
is somewhat stilted. Although the book was written after Kalashnikoff had
emigrated to America, it reads almost as if it had been translated from
Russian.
Other Notes: Although the
characters are portrayed as Christians, and Christianity is discussed,
the book does not necessarily come from a Christian theology. At best,
Turgen can be described as having a simple faith, but it is more a mix
of works righteousness and even pagan ideals than true Christianity. Turgen
communicates with a Great Spirit who is not at all like the Christian God.
Kalashnikoff,
Nicholas. The Defender. Illustrated. Reprint edition. Walker Publishing,
1993.