Do you remember the ‘Dear America’ historical fiction book series?

As someone who grew up reading historical fiction, the ‘Dear America’ series holds a special place in my heart. These books offer a unique way to engage with history—not through dry facts but through the eyes of young girls living through some of America’s defining moments. What’s great about this series is how it covers a wide range of experiences, from the hardships of a Jewish immigrant in New York to the turbulent times on the Oregon Trail. One of my favorites was "When Will This Cruel War Be Over?" which gave me a child’s perspective of the Civil War. The human stories made history come alive, making it easier to remember events and empathize with those who lived through them. This approach to storytelling helped me understand the emotional impact of historical events, which textbooks rarely do. The use of diary format also felt very personal and immersive, making me feel connected to characters like Abigail Jane Stewart and Catharine Carey. It’s interesting to see how the series thoughtfully touches on difficult topics like slavery and war, all while remaining age-appropriate. For 90s kids reminiscing about childhood books or anyone new to historical fiction, the ‘Dear America’ series provides a perfect blend of education and engaging storytelling. If you enjoy reading on #booktok or exploring nostalgic #90sthrowback content, these books are certainly worth revisiting or discovering for the first time.