The True Gift    by Patricia MacLachlan Order:  USA  Can Atheneum, 2013 (2009) Hardcover, Softcover, CD, e-Book     Reviewed by Bob Walch This chapter book for readers seven years of age and older tells the story of a brother and sister who turn Christmas into a very special celebration for the unlikeliest of characters – their grandparents' white cow. Liam is convinced that the white cow is lonely because there are no other animals in the barnyard. The young boy enlists his sister into chipping in her holiday gift money with what he has collected to purchase a small brown cow to keep the white cow company. The pair are a tad short, so Liam also sells his favorite books to make up the difference. The children make the purchase and now the solitary white cow has a companion to share the empty yard with. But on Christmas Eve, an even a bigger surprise awaits not only the white cow and her new friend but also the entire family. Although this is a rather unusual Christmas story, it does capture the spirit of the season and, since it was first published in 2009, The True Gift has become a favorite read in many households this time of year. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Kids books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews