Karen Hesse

In 1860 and 1861, while working in her father's lighthouse on an island off the coast of Delaware, fifteen-year-old Amelia records in her diary how the Civil War is beginning to devastate her divided state.

The Civil War Diary of Amelia Martin, Fenwick Island, Delaware, 1861

A Light in the Storm

Caroline Lewicki

This is one of my least favorite Dear America books. I feel like most - if not all of the others - happen during a point of so much action in history. This book hardly talks about the history of the beginning of the Civil War. It's much more about family dynamics and hardships. The ending leaves so much to be desired and the epilogue is, quite frankly, pretty depressing. Considering how badly Amelia craved family, I had hoped for a better ending for her.

Meredith Rose

Of the four Dear America books I’ve read, this one is perhaps my favorite! I could really relate to Amelia’s character. She’s so level headed, hard working, and brave! 

In addition to writing very well-developed characters, Karen Hesse also crafted this wonderful story with such attention to detail. The history and themes in Amelia’s story are educational and applicable to kids and adults even today!

Captures the emotions of a young Union girl who struggles to make sense of her shattered world as she lives in a state of harsh division during the first year of the Civil War. 120,000 first printing.

A Light in the Storm The Civil War Diary of Amelia Martin, Fenwick Island, Delaware, 1861

Reviews