'You could become the greatest living painter. Your paintings would be treasured for ever.' Those were the words Lilias Trotter heard from John Ruskin, one of the world's most established art critics. She had to make a choice between her talent and her calling. Both were gifts from God. In May 1879 Lilias knew what she should do. God's work for Lilias was in the desert land of Algeria. Palm trees and camels replaced lamp posts and horse drawn carriages. The desert was her home, its people her friends and its Creator her reason for life. Irene Howat is an award–winning author and poet who lives in Scotland. She has published many biographical books for all ages and is particularly well–known for her biographical material. She has written many books about the lives of different Christians from around the world. She has also written an autobiographical work entitled 'Pain My Companion'.
