Meet Kirsten: An American Girl
Recommended. Age: 8+. A Catholic review of this book for parents.
Our review
A simple, honest story of a pioneer girl who keeps going through storm, fear and grief. The family prays, and the book treats prayer as natural and real. Marta's death is sad and handled gently, which makes this a good first book about loss. The writing is plain and the doll tie-in is obvious, but the story itself is sound.
For parents
Read aloud from 6, independent reading from 8. Marta's death may upset sensitive children, so read that chapter together. Ask whom Kirsten turns to when she is scared, and pray for someone you miss. Ask what your own family gave up to come where you live.