For years, the Dear America series has been introducing readers to American history through fictional stories of girls who lived it.
Now, 30 years since the series premiered, two of the novels, The Winter of Red Snow and A Journey to the New World have been released in deluxe paperback form. Written by critically acclaimed author Kristiana Gregory and Newberry Honor author Kathryn Lasky respectively, these books are a great option heading into the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Written in diary form, these books are compelling. And at less than 200 pages and short entries, they’re accessible. Both include strong historical backmatter that help readers place the characters in time. These exciting reads will especially appeal to fans of the American Girl historical novels, which feature a similar format. Learn more about the two books below.
THE WINTER OF RED SNOW, by Kristiana Gregory, Scholastic Press, April 7, 2026, Paperback, $9.99 (ages 9-12)
Eleven-year-old Abigail Jane Stewart’s life in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania has been haunted by war for two years now, but she and her family have thrived all the same. Until everything is upended when Abby is woken by the unfamiliar sound of drums.
General George Washington is leading the Continental soldiers into their winter encampment at Valley Forge.
Abby’s diary tells the stories of her family, friends, and neighbors, and the sides they have to choose, during one of the most memorable and crucial winters in American history.
The Dear America series transformed the way millions of readers learned about American history. These new editions will be beautifully packaged as deluxe paperbacks with gold foil, and are perfect for a new generation of readers. —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Press
A JOURNEY TO THE NEW WORLD, by Kathryn Lasky, Scholastic Press, April 7, 2026, Paperback, $9.99 (ages 9-12)
Twelve-year-old Remember “Mem” Patience Whipple is headed for the New World with her parents on a grueling 65-day journey onboard the Mayflower.
Once they reach land, and despite the harsh conditions, Mem is fearless and leaps headfirst into her new life, helping to care for the sick in her new home and searching for friends to call her own.
The Dear America series transformed the way millions of readers learned about American history. These new editions will be beautifully packaged as deluxe paperbacks with foil and are perfect for a new generation of readers. —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Press
Copyright © 2026 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.
