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American Stories for Gutsy Girls
The Four Seasons of Florence Wallace
Win a free print copy of this book!
14 days and 08:20:34
50 copies available
U.S. only
This historical novel about a Black orphan girl grappling for a solid place in Civil War–era New York City will inspire tweens to dream big, rise above society's limitations, and find their way by being a place for others to belong.
Against her wishes, Florence finds herself at the Colored Orphan Asylum in New York City, along with her younger sister, Eva. Believing her Mama will come back for her, Florence perseveres. She finds hope and purpose in newfound friends, in the words of female abolitionists and suffragists, in memories of her father's confidence in her, and in a sunflower patch in the back of the orphanage's garden. But when the Draft Riots occur, the orphanage is destroyed in a fire, leaving Florence to wonder if the dreams of a colored girl are even worth pursuing.
Readers will appreciate Florence's honesty and struggle with doing the right thing as they cheer her on in discovering what she truly wants and in committing to following the challenging road to her dream.
Part of the Own Voices historical series American Stories for Gutsy Girls, this dramatic, heartwarming novel from Kirstie Myvett . . .
Transports children into the past and gives them insight into the life of Northern Blacks during slavery with a compelling story full of mystery, mishaps, and meaning;Encourages tweens to be a friend in every circumstance and to bring others with them as they succeed;Shows children that no matter what expectations the world has for them, they can follow their own dreams;Is perfect for fans of Jacqueline Woodson, Kekla Magoon, Lesa Cline-Ransome, and Christopher Paul Curtis; andIncludes black-and-white illustrations.
Against her wishes, Florence finds herself at the Colored Orphan Asylum in New York City, along with her younger sister, Eva. Believing her Mama will come back for her, Florence perseveres. She finds hope and purpose in newfound friends, in the words of female abolitionists and suffragists, in memories of her father's confidence in her, and in a sunflower patch in the back of the orphanage's garden. But when the Draft Riots occur, the orphanage is destroyed in a fire, leaving Florence to wonder if the dreams of a colored girl are even worth pursuing.
Readers will appreciate Florence's honesty and struggle with doing the right thing as they cheer her on in discovering what she truly wants and in committing to following the challenging road to her dream.
Part of the Own Voices historical series American Stories for Gutsy Girls, this dramatic, heartwarming novel from Kirstie Myvett . . .
Transports children into the past and gives them insight into the life of Northern Blacks during slavery with a compelling story full of mystery, mishaps, and meaning;Encourages tweens to be a friend in every circumstance and to bring others with them as they succeed;Shows children that no matter what expectations the world has for them, they can follow their own dreams;Is perfect for fans of Jacqueline Woodson, Kekla Magoon, Lesa Cline-Ransome, and Christopher Paul Curtis; andIncludes black-and-white illustrations.
320 pages, Paperback
Published May 26, 2026
About the author
Kirstie Myvett
4 books17 followersKirstie Myvett is the author of several books for children. She is co-founder of KidLit in Color, a blog that amplifies BIPOC creatives in the publishing industry. Kirstie believes that representation matters in all places and spaces, especially in the pages of books. Her work has been featured in Country Roads Magazine.
Kirstie's life motto is faith, family, friends, and fiction.
Kirstie's life motto is faith, family, friends, and fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
April 9, 2026
I'd like to thank Netgalley, the publisher and the author for an ARC of this book. In exchange, I am providing an honest review.
Having read "Five Days at Hotel Adams" as well, I can officially say I love this series. It hits all the nostalgia points of the American Girl books that I loved in my youth, and I know, that were I younger, I would have loved these.
This book in particular really sang for me. It covers some very heavy topics, but in a way where Florence can still experience joy and have moments that are relatable to children. She grows and rises up from a situation that is meant to hold her down, and she is so inspirational.
I also like how aspects of history that aren't commonly touched upon in education are brought into the narrative and explained. It's really smart and executed well. I honestly can't say enough good things about this book.
Having read "Five Days at Hotel Adams" as well, I can officially say I love this series. It hits all the nostalgia points of the American Girl books that I loved in my youth, and I know, that were I younger, I would have loved these.
This book in particular really sang for me. It covers some very heavy topics, but in a way where Florence can still experience joy and have moments that are relatable to children. She grows and rises up from a situation that is meant to hold her down, and she is so inspirational.
I also like how aspects of history that aren't commonly touched upon in education are brought into the narrative and explained. It's really smart and executed well. I honestly can't say enough good things about this book.
May 27, 2026
Thank you Tommy Nelson and NetGalley for providing me with the review copy.
The Four Seasons of Florence Wallace by Kirstie Myvett transports us straight to Civil War era in New York, following Florence and her sister Eva when they find themselves in an orphanage after their father's death.
This isn't just any historical fiction, it's a profound tale of resilience, friendship, and finding your purpose even when the world feels upside down. I absolutely adored seeing Florence draws strength from her new life situations: new friends, the inspiring words of abolitionists, and even a beloved sunflower patch.
Kirstie Myvett does a great job highlighting the often-overlooked Civil War Draft Riots, showing us a vital piece of American history through Florence's eyes. Beyond the historical context, Florence’s battles with misunderstanding and bullying feel so real. Young readers will easily connect with her journey.
Heartbreaking yet hopeful, this book is a necessary read for young minds, beautifully blending an engaging story with rich historical insights.
Highly recommend for middle-grade readers and anyone looking for a captivating, meaningful story!
*Read full review on my blog (link in bio).
The Four Seasons of Florence Wallace by Kirstie Myvett transports us straight to Civil War era in New York, following Florence and her sister Eva when they find themselves in an orphanage after their father's death.
This isn't just any historical fiction, it's a profound tale of resilience, friendship, and finding your purpose even when the world feels upside down. I absolutely adored seeing Florence draws strength from her new life situations: new friends, the inspiring words of abolitionists, and even a beloved sunflower patch.
Kirstie Myvett does a great job highlighting the often-overlooked Civil War Draft Riots, showing us a vital piece of American history through Florence's eyes. Beyond the historical context, Florence’s battles with misunderstanding and bullying feel so real. Young readers will easily connect with her journey.
Heartbreaking yet hopeful, this book is a necessary read for young minds, beautifully blending an engaging story with rich historical insights.
Highly recommend for middle-grade readers and anyone looking for a captivating, meaningful story!
*Read full review on my blog (link in bio).
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
In an era of sweeping change, a young black girl fights to make a place for herself in a nation in transition. Florence - and Eva, her younger sister - have been placed in an orphanage, and Florence yearns for a better life for them both.
Opportunity comes knocking in the form of unexpected friends, including abolitionists and suffragettes who are fighting for the rights of black people and women. Florence, who falls into both categories, understands the importance of what is happening and is determined to be part of it all. But disaster strikes when the draft riots lead to the orphanage being destroyed, and Florence is left deeply demoralized. Can she find the strength to rise from the destruction and rebuild once again?
Florence is a relatable protagonist, and this is the story of a very important time in history told from the perspective of one young girl. It will be an excellent addition to the existing literature and provide a good read for most in the target group.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Opportunity comes knocking in the form of unexpected friends, including abolitionists and suffragettes who are fighting for the rights of black people and women. Florence, who falls into both categories, understands the importance of what is happening and is determined to be part of it all. But disaster strikes when the draft riots lead to the orphanage being destroyed, and Florence is left deeply demoralized. Can she find the strength to rise from the destruction and rebuild once again?
Florence is a relatable protagonist, and this is the story of a very important time in history told from the perspective of one young girl. It will be an excellent addition to the existing literature and provide a good read for most in the target group.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a read! I loved this story about fierce, smart Florence and this little known aspect of American history- the Civil War Draft Riots of New York.
This wasn’t your typical orphanage story, which was appreciated, and I especially loved the depiction of a place led by Black women that did whatever it could to pour into Black children who had fallen on hard times. While it’s set in the mid-1860s, Florence’s predicaments like being misunderstood and dealing with bullies are likely relatable to many young readers and will enable them to find points of connection as they read the text. Myvett also does a great job painting the nuances of different characters’ critical observations of people and their motivations to during this time, helping broaden what could be otherwise seen as monolithic perspectives.
A great read and an age-appropriate introduction to a less discussed context of a well-known historical period with a protagonist young readers will cheer for!
This wasn’t your typical orphanage story, which was appreciated, and I especially loved the depiction of a place led by Black women that did whatever it could to pour into Black children who had fallen on hard times. While it’s set in the mid-1860s, Florence’s predicaments like being misunderstood and dealing with bullies are likely relatable to many young readers and will enable them to find points of connection as they read the text. Myvett also does a great job painting the nuances of different characters’ critical observations of people and their motivations to during this time, helping broaden what could be otherwise seen as monolithic perspectives.
A great read and an age-appropriate introduction to a less discussed context of a well-known historical period with a protagonist young readers will cheer for!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Civil War is raging, and Florence and her little sister Eva are sent to live in an orphanage on New York's Fifth Avenue while their recently widowed mother looks for work. This heartwarming middle grade novel taught me about historical events that I was unfamiliar with, like the Colored Orphan's Asylum and the Draft Riots. The book was an entertaining read with plenty of drama as Florence dealt with bully, June, and mean warden, Millie, yearned to be reunited with her family, and feared she'd be sent out to work as an indentured servant before her mother's return.
I enjoyed the tone of the novel and the black and white images sprinkled throughout the book. This is a story that I would have loved as a child and that kids of today will love as well. I was engaged until the exciting ending, and I'd like to read a sequel to find out what happens to Florence and some of the antagonists, like June in the future.
I enjoyed the tone of the novel and the black and white images sprinkled throughout the book. This is a story that I would have loved as a child and that kids of today will love as well. I was engaged until the exciting ending, and I'd like to read a sequel to find out what happens to Florence and some of the antagonists, like June in the future.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What a fantastic story! I said this about the other entry in this series (Five Days at the Hotel Adams) and I mean it for this one too-I would have been obsessed with this at a kid. These books, particularly this one, have a place in the lexicon of books for girls with American Girl & Dear America.
Sweet and brave Florence! Kirstie Myvett wrote her so well, with such emotion and complexity. When she and her sister are dropped off at the Colored Orphan Asylum we as readers feel her anger and fear. As awful as it is, it's so understandable how the difficult situation Florence's mother (and many others) were placed in made them feel the orphanage was best for their children. So many layered emotions and characterizations. A truly excellent read. I will be putting these books on our library purchase list!
Thank you to NetGalley and Tommy Nelson for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Sweet and brave Florence! Kirstie Myvett wrote her so well, with such emotion and complexity. When she and her sister are dropped off at the Colored Orphan Asylum we as readers feel her anger and fear. As awful as it is, it's so understandable how the difficult situation Florence's mother (and many others) were placed in made them feel the orphanage was best for their children. So many layered emotions and characterizations. A truly excellent read. I will be putting these books on our library purchase list!
Thank you to NetGalley and Tommy Nelson for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A well-crafted and heartfelt story of family love, struggle, and resilience, The Four Seasons of Florence Wallace drew me in from the first page. I was quickly caught up in young Florence’s struggle to comes to terms with—and reluctantly admit the benefits of—her time in a Civil War-era New York City orphanage. Through Florence, her sister Eva, and other key characters, Myvett gives face and perspective to historical events and places I had heard of but knew little about. Florence’s determination to survive and thrive (and to lift others along the way) make her an admirable and inspiring protagonist. Highly recommended for home and school libraries.
May 28, 2026
From the moment young Florence stepped off that wagon in front of the Colored Orphan Asylum, I was wrapped up in her keen observations, her grief, and her amazing courage. And oh my, Myvett knows how to end chapters with subtle, yet emotional engagements.
There are moments of true heartbreak, not withstanding the start of Florence's journey as she's being left at The Colored Orphan Asylum. Yet there is great courage.
So much to appreciate about this book as it takes us on not only Florence's journey of growth, but of little know historical moments, where the Civil War act as a backdrop. Absolutely LOVE Florence Wallace's story.
There are moments of true heartbreak, not withstanding the start of Florence's journey as she's being left at The Colored Orphan Asylum. Yet there is great courage.
So much to appreciate about this book as it takes us on not only Florence's journey of growth, but of little know historical moments, where the Civil War act as a backdrop. Absolutely LOVE Florence Wallace's story.
May 28, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Florence's story, and loved that I learned about the draft riots. It is a great addition to libraries and a must read for students who enjoy historical fiction. The story of found friends and hope resonates throughout. I think it would be an excellent story for a student book club.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I heard about the 1863 draft riots and the destruction of the “colored” orphanage for the first time just last year through a friend who is writing an adult novel set during that time. Then I heard about The Four Seasons of Florence Wallace through another friend. I was so excited when I was allowed to access the ARC on NetGalley.
This book DID NOT disappoint. It is such a great story and so well told.
The story managed to bring tears to my eyes and a smile to my lips—sometimes within the same paragraph. Heartwarming and hopeful, yet harrowing and heartbreaking, this little-known time in history is packaged in a story about family, friendship, and faith. The inclusion of the historical details was also well executed. This important piece of Black and American history will be a welcome addition to any public, school, or home library and is a necessary read for middle grade children. This book is truly something special, and I personally will be purchasing copies for some of the “gutsy” girls that I know will enjoy Florence’s story.
This book DID NOT disappoint. It is such a great story and so well told.
The story managed to bring tears to my eyes and a smile to my lips—sometimes within the same paragraph. Heartwarming and hopeful, yet harrowing and heartbreaking, this little-known time in history is packaged in a story about family, friendship, and faith. The inclusion of the historical details was also well executed. This important piece of Black and American history will be a welcome addition to any public, school, or home library and is a necessary read for middle grade children. This book is truly something special, and I personally will be purchasing copies for some of the “gutsy” girls that I know will enjoy Florence’s story.
June 1, 2026
The Four Seasons of Florence Wallace is an engaging historical fiction MG, whose heroine and secondary characters will feel extremely relatable to today's kids. This novel has lots of drama with factual info deftly woven in...a winning combination, indeed. Highly recommend!
April 12, 2026
This is another great installment in the American Stories for Gutsy Girls series. I really appreciate that it’s not your typical orphan tale. Florence is a realistic protagonist and experiences a full range of emotions throughout her ordeal, including anger, disappointment, frustration, fear, grief, and joy. Her initial outlook isn’t positive, but I loved watching her grow and form connections at the Colored Orphans Asylum
My only problem with this book is that it felt like a lot of plotlines were left unresolved. I would have liked to learn more about June’s relationship with her mother (especially as it seemed like there was emotional and verbal abuse going on), the tragedy of Ruth’s death, and whatever was going on with Miss Millie to make her so nasty and conniving.
That being said, The Four Seasons of Florence Wallace is an excellent work of historical fiction. I hadn’t known about the Draft Riots before reading it and I’m much older than the target audience. I look forward to purchasing a copy when this book is published in May.
My only problem with this book is that it felt like a lot of plotlines were left unresolved. I would have liked to learn more about June’s relationship with her mother (especially as it seemed like there was emotional and verbal abuse going on), the tragedy of Ruth’s death, and whatever was going on with Miss Millie to make her so nasty and conniving.
That being said, The Four Seasons of Florence Wallace is an excellent work of historical fiction. I hadn’t known about the Draft Riots before reading it and I’m much older than the target audience. I look forward to purchasing a copy when this book is published in May.
April 1, 2026
An excellent middle grade novel illuminating a little-known piece of Black US history, set in the Colored Orphan Asylum in NYC. Florence and her younger sister are left at the orphanage by their Mama when she is unable to care for them after Papa dies. They all hope it will be for the short-term, so Florence resists accepting the orphanage as even a temporary 'home.' She's a very bright girl, and shows promise as a potential teacher, but she is almost 12, and every orphan is indentured at 12 as some sort of servant or apprentice. What really drew me in was the history surrounding the COA's, which is all factual. Avoiding spoilers here, but the backmatter confirms the historical setting. A worthwhile read on multiple levels.
April 9, 2026
I heard about the 1863 draft riots and the destruction of the “colored” orphanage for the first time just last year through a friend who is writing an adult novel set during that time. Then I heard about The Four Seasons of Florence Wallace through another friend. I was so excited when I was allowed to access the ARC on NetGalley.
This book DID NOT disappoint. It is such a great story and so well told.
The story managed to bring tears to my eyes and a smile to my lips—sometimes within the same paragraph. Heartwarming and hopeful, yet harrowing and heartbreaking, this little-known time in history is packaged in a story about family, friendship, and faith. The inclusion of the historical details was also well executed. This important piece of Black and American history will be a welcome addition to any public, school, or home library and is a necessary read for middle grade children. This book is truly something special, and I personally will be purchasing copies for some of the “gutsy” girls that I know will enjoy Florence’s story.
This book DID NOT disappoint. It is such a great story and so well told.
The story managed to bring tears to my eyes and a smile to my lips—sometimes within the same paragraph. Heartwarming and hopeful, yet harrowing and heartbreaking, this little-known time in history is packaged in a story about family, friendship, and faith. The inclusion of the historical details was also well executed. This important piece of Black and American history will be a welcome addition to any public, school, or home library and is a necessary read for middle grade children. This book is truly something special, and I personally will be purchasing copies for some of the “gutsy” girls that I know will enjoy Florence’s story.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book captures the charm of the classic "American Girl" stories but keeps its own vibe. Aimed at "gutsy" girls, it weaves together historical events, real-life figures, and settings with modern themes like family loss and bullying that children throughout the ages can relate to. "The Four Seasons of Florence Wallace" is a thoughtful and engaging tale for middle-grade readers that comes highly recommended.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews