Susan Sinnott (1)

Even for someone who hasn’t read any American Girl books, Welcome to Kirsten’s World, 1854 is a fun glimpse into a different time. It includes such topics as arriving on the frontier from the East or another country, building and working on the homestead, social activities and courtship, life as a Dakota, toys and clothing, other immigrants on the frontier, and conflict between the Dakota and the settlers. There are plenty of visuals, each accompanied by a brief caption or explanation show more that invites the reader to imagine life in 1854 Minnesota. I especially enjoyed the sections about what immigrants might have brought from their homelands and how pioneers and Dakota lived from season to season. show less

After previously reading an American Girls Collection nonfiction book, I had to read another. Addy’s World is an extremely informative book on the lives of African Americans during America’s Civil War. This book discusses all of the differences between African Americans in the South and in the North, from fashion, occupations, wealth, treatment, etc. Prominent African American figures, the underground railroad, and slavery are all discussed, with the addition of facts many may not know. show more This is a great book introducing the African American experience during the Civil War. show less

I read this slowly over a few weeks and I enjoyed it! I liked learning about some of the real history that inspired stories like Kirsten's and even Laura Ingalls Wilder's books. It wasn't a page turner but it was was packed with information and I wasn't bored even though this was written for a much younger reading level. I am planning to read all of the American Girl books in chronological order and I think I will also be reading each of their "Welcome to..." books as well.

Browsing through this book is like visiting a museum. There is a diagram of the boarding house where Addy and her family might have lived after escaping slavery. A Southern plantation is also featured. There are samples of children's toys and fashions of the 1860s. Children will learn about jumping the broom, Uncle Tom's Cabin, Buffalo Soldiers and more.

Similiar titles are available for many of the American Girl Characters.