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The American Girls Collection
Welcome to Felicity's World · 1774: Growing Up in Colonial America
Examines life in the American colonies during the Revolutionary War
58 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 1999
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
June 10, 2013
Great introduction into the times of the American Revolution. A lot of the stories focus on what many history books leave out: What it was like for girls, including heroic tales of women and girls that I hadn't heard before. I plan to read it to my girl AND boys next year.
July 28, 2017
Ooh, this was a fun book! It is rather like those Eyewitness books in format, but with a narrower focus in time. I found myself handing it over to my husband, my mother, and my sister in between reading it myself and then showing my daughter the parts I thought she would be able to handle and understand. I used to be a history major but I can honestly say there was a lot of information in this slender volume that I have never encountered before, not even on my own trip to Colonial Williamsburg!
I thought that many difficult subjects were tackled in a refreshingly straight-forward way. For instance, readers will learn about child mortality and public executions (there is actually a photo
and explanation of a gibbet!) along with slave ships and the devastating pain of being sold away from one's family. You might want to read through this book a little before handing it over to a sensitive, recently bereaved, or younger child. It says 8 and up and that really is about right.
The only things I found disappointing were the general lack of information about Native Americans during this time and their participation in the War of Independence (they are mentioned but it is pretty brief), and that the focus is on middle and upper class white people. I guess that makes sense, as this is about what Felicity's life would be like, but with the book claiming to give a broader view of the times it does seem a bit...narrow is the nicest word I can come up with. At several points I found myself thinking in annoyance, "Yes, but what did the poor people eat/wear/do for entertainment/etc? Why aren't you telling more about the loyalist colonists and their fates? etc" There is a definite pro-American bias in some of the objects and stories told, which as a believer in the neutrality of history, I did not care for.
Finally, I loved that women who participated in the war were discussed, but was sad to see that one of my favourite figures, Deborah Sampson, was not mentioned at all.
So, I must reluctantly knock one star from my rating. But I still recommend that you read it, even if you are an adult.
I thought that many difficult subjects were tackled in a refreshingly straight-forward way. For instance, readers will learn about child mortality and public executions (there is actually a photo
and explanation of a gibbet!) along with slave ships and the devastating pain of being sold away from one's family. You might want to read through this book a little before handing it over to a sensitive, recently bereaved, or younger child. It says 8 and up and that really is about right.
The only things I found disappointing were the general lack of information about Native Americans during this time and their participation in the War of Independence (they are mentioned but it is pretty brief), and that the focus is on middle and upper class white people. I guess that makes sense, as this is about what Felicity's life would be like, but with the book claiming to give a broader view of the times it does seem a bit...narrow is the nicest word I can come up with. At several points I found myself thinking in annoyance, "Yes, but what did the poor people eat/wear/do for entertainment/etc? Why aren't you telling more about the loyalist colonists and their fates? etc" There is a definite pro-American bias in some of the objects and stories told, which as a believer in the neutrality of history, I did not care for.
Finally, I loved that women who participated in the war were discussed, but was sad to see that one of my favourite figures, Deborah Sampson, was not mentioned at all.
So, I must reluctantly knock one star from my rating. But I still recommend that you read it, even if you are an adult.
January 9, 2018
This book is an impressive little gem of information! This book is a wonderful little encyclopedia of what it was like to grow up in Colonial America. This book is full of very interesting pictures that are both engaging and insightful to both young readers and old.
I read the Felicity’s books to my daughter four or five years ago. One day about a year ago, when I was shopping in our local used book store, I found this book. It was in mint condition and I was pretty sure it was no longer being printed and it was hard to get. Of course I grabbed it! At first I wasn’t sure if I would actually use the book since I had already read the Felicity series to my daughter so I took it home and added it to the bookshelf. Recently, I “found” it again and thought it would be perfect as an extra source to read to my children in our history study as we are currently studying early American history. Wow, I am so glad I did! I read it to my 12 year old daughter and my 10 year old son. Although it mentions the character, Felicity, a few times, this book can be a stand a lone history reference (and an excellent one at that!). Most of the history books we have been reading cover the war for American independence along with what was happening around the world during the time period. In comparison, this book covers every day life of an American colonist along with some great pictures of tools and clothing among other things you would only see in a Museum. We found it so interesting, we had a hard time not reading it all in one sitting!
I read the Felicity’s books to my daughter four or five years ago. One day about a year ago, when I was shopping in our local used book store, I found this book. It was in mint condition and I was pretty sure it was no longer being printed and it was hard to get. Of course I grabbed it! At first I wasn’t sure if I would actually use the book since I had already read the Felicity series to my daughter so I took it home and added it to the bookshelf. Recently, I “found” it again and thought it would be perfect as an extra source to read to my children in our history study as we are currently studying early American history. Wow, I am so glad I did! I read it to my 12 year old daughter and my 10 year old son. Although it mentions the character, Felicity, a few times, this book can be a stand a lone history reference (and an excellent one at that!). Most of the history books we have been reading cover the war for American independence along with what was happening around the world during the time period. In comparison, this book covers every day life of an American colonist along with some great pictures of tools and clothing among other things you would only see in a Museum. We found it so interesting, we had a hard time not reading it all in one sitting!
August 9, 2012
When I was volunteering to help with the summer reading program at my local library, I saw this book displayed in the children's research section. I freaked out and was happy to find many others of the Welcome to ___'s World collection there. I was happy that they were so readily available and not checked out, so I figured I could check them out. (They're quick reads anyway.) What a wonderful find. I loved thus book, it probably ranked in the middle of the Welcome to ___'s World collection. I didn't learn much I didn't know, but I did get to learn about some personal experiences. A history and AG fan's paradise. =)
February 10, 2023
It's such a shame that American Girl stopped making these non-fiction "Welcome to World" books because I think they are excellent and one of the highlights of each character's collection. Their passion for the history behind each historical character is what made the American Girl brand special to me, and it's so disappointing that the brand eventually moved away from their educational focus. Although I still wish every AG Historical Character had one of these books, I can at least enjoy the ones that were published.
These are basically an American Girl version of the DK Eyewitness children's non-fiction books. Each page is filled with tons of great photographs and snippets of information, stories, and first hand accounts from people living in Colonial America and through the American Revolution. While this book isn't actually focused on the character Felicity Merriman (although some connections to her stories are referenced) and is rather focused on the broader Revolutionary War time period, I really feel like these books give readers a good idea of what of real life would have looked like for a girl growing up in 1774. What her house would have looked like, what toys she would have played with, what would her community would be like, how she went to school, how the war would have affected her - all of the things I would have been genuinely curious about as a child connecting to a character and her stories.
I could tell from some of the first hand accounts featured in this book that the character Felicity Merriman was inspired by those real life girls and their letters and journals, which was super cool. I also loved that this book ended with a small "A Peek into the Future" section, encouraging readers to use their newfound understanding of the Revolutionary War to speculate where Felicity's story might take her if it continued into the Revolutionary War and beyond. I've said it before, but I would kill for a YA reboot of Felicity's Revolutionary War story.
I can't recommend this book enough! If you are reading through the Felicity stories either by yourself or with your child, this book is a must have to flip through and get a more thorough idea of the time period from a girl's perspective.
These are basically an American Girl version of the DK Eyewitness children's non-fiction books. Each page is filled with tons of great photographs and snippets of information, stories, and first hand accounts from people living in Colonial America and through the American Revolution. While this book isn't actually focused on the character Felicity Merriman (although some connections to her stories are referenced) and is rather focused on the broader Revolutionary War time period, I really feel like these books give readers a good idea of what of real life would have looked like for a girl growing up in 1774. What her house would have looked like, what toys she would have played with, what would her community would be like, how she went to school, how the war would have affected her - all of the things I would have been genuinely curious about as a child connecting to a character and her stories.
I could tell from some of the first hand accounts featured in this book that the character Felicity Merriman was inspired by those real life girls and their letters and journals, which was super cool. I also loved that this book ended with a small "A Peek into the Future" section, encouraging readers to use their newfound understanding of the Revolutionary War to speculate where Felicity's story might take her if it continued into the Revolutionary War and beyond. I've said it before, but I would kill for a YA reboot of Felicity's Revolutionary War story.
I can't recommend this book enough! If you are reading through the Felicity stories either by yourself or with your child, this book is a must have to flip through and get a more thorough idea of the time period from a girl's perspective.
January 22, 2021
I liked the part of the book that was about everyday life, but a fairly sizable chunk was dedicated to covering the Revolution. Honestly, that's not what I'm here for. I can find a basic outline of the Revolution in hundreds of other books, and Felicity's stories end in late 1775 anyways. I would have much rather those pages had continued to explore every day life. Maybe include something about Native Americans, who are totally ignored in this book. Or a little about how poor people would have lived. Also, the Thomas Jefferson worship is... interesting to read in 2021.
April 16, 2020
Beautiful true facts and stories of American history.
March 9, 2025
4.5
Very informative, some things didn't age well, but overall I learned a lot!
Very informative, some things didn't age well, but overall I learned a lot!
July 12, 2018
I really enjoyed this book! It goes more in depth than the Looking Back sections in the older Historical Character books do. It also focuses on smaller details of everyday life in Colonial America that aren't really covered in school such as courtship rituals and even medicine. I thought it was interesting that it took about 30 eggs to bake 1 cake because chickens and their eggs were smaller than they are today. This book is a great resource for classrooms, school projects or just to read for fun.
I wish these books were still in print
I wish these books were still in print
March 9, 2018
As I said in my review of
Welcome to Kaya's World, 1764: Growing Up in a Native American Homeland
, this is an extension of the "Looking Back" sections of the Felicity books. I think these are my favorites of the additional books.
September 9, 2020
I read this book for the podcast I’m currently listening to called “American Girls” by Allison Horrocks and Mary Mahoney.
An informational read about life was like during Felicity’s time dealing with war, illness, love, loss. I learned some new things I had not known about this time period in America’s history, which I think makes it a thrilling book.
An informational read about life was like during Felicity’s time dealing with war, illness, love, loss. I learned some new things I had not known about this time period in America’s history, which I think makes it a thrilling book.
January 13, 2024
I enjoyed learning more about Colonial Times. Yikes, it was scary what the angry mobs would do! And yikes, there were punishments like branding. I'm both fascinated by and glad I don't live in Colonial Times. I loved learning about Sybil's ride and that women fought in or helped on the frontlines of the war. Yay for freedom!
August 4, 2024
A surprisingly perfect companion book to those reading the Outlander series. It really is a peak into the past. From the life of a doctor, traveling with the army, the English losing the Revolutionary War, the restrictions of women—it is all scenes from Outlander.
I have had Felicity since I was a girl and loved her books but all I remembered about them was her love of horses. I’m currently rereading them and can see why my love of history has lasted all of my life.
A big thank you to the Dolls of Our Lives podcast for reigniting my love for the historical dolls of American Girl.
I have had Felicity since I was a girl and loved her books but all I remembered about them was her love of horses. I’m currently rereading them and can see why my love of history has lasted all of my life.
A big thank you to the Dolls of Our Lives podcast for reigniting my love for the historical dolls of American Girl.
February 12, 2024
This book is such a cute read, yet also a great way to introduce colonial America to younger students. Even though it focuses on girls and important women during the colonial era, boys and girls can both her this story because it talks about how it would have been to live during this time period.
April 3, 2026
one of my favorite childhood books, I used to read it like every day. the facts in it are super cool and interesting, plus it's accompanied by excellent illustrations and pictures! I highly recommend 🤎🤎🤎
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June 25, 2023This book was still somewhat avoiding the topic of slavery, but they at least mentioned it over Felicity's books overall.
January 1, 2026
Info on Life in the early 1700s, specifically for children and women including schooling, hygiene, healthcare, courtship, managing a household, fashion, and life during the Revolutionary War.
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May 25, 2011Read by Kelly, Spring 2006:
"This book takes the popular American Girls Series about Felicity and explores actual people and events that took place during this time period. The book is set up like the eyewitness series books with a lot of pictures and short blurbs. The book is set up into chapters and the main focus of the book is how young women grew up in the colonial period. Some of the book focused on schooling, fashion, slavery, and The American Revolution. The audience for this book would probably more toward 6th grade or later elementary. I liked how the book was set up because it had a paragraph on each page on the topic and then it had a lot of pictures with captions. One of the challenges that I could see with informational texts is the vocabulary. I think that the book I read did a good job of dealing with this problem. There were pictures to show unfamiliar objects like a horn book for school and were defined with a short blurb. Also, it might be hard to get students interested in reading informational texts. This book appeals to young girls by using a popular fictional character to get a student interested in history. This book focuses on how young girls grew up in the colonial period which definitely will make it interesting."
"This book takes the popular American Girls Series about Felicity and explores actual people and events that took place during this time period. The book is set up like the eyewitness series books with a lot of pictures and short blurbs. The book is set up into chapters and the main focus of the book is how young women grew up in the colonial period. Some of the book focused on schooling, fashion, slavery, and The American Revolution. The audience for this book would probably more toward 6th grade or later elementary. I liked how the book was set up because it had a paragraph on each page on the topic and then it had a lot of pictures with captions. One of the challenges that I could see with informational texts is the vocabulary. I think that the book I read did a good job of dealing with this problem. There were pictures to show unfamiliar objects like a horn book for school and were defined with a short blurb. Also, it might be hard to get students interested in reading informational texts. This book appeals to young girls by using a popular fictional character to get a student interested in history. This book focuses on how young girls grew up in the colonial period which definitely will make it interesting."
May 26, 2008
I got this book for our 6 year old son, who is really into history, but I have found that my husband, myself, and my 3 year old are devouring it as well. We have not read the series, yet, but this book, as well as Addy's World and Kirstens' world, are chock full of wonderful stories about each period, as well as images of actual artifacts of the period with interesting descriptions. Fantastic books.
June 7, 2011
Seems pretty good so far. A lot of really good information about the time period. Has realistic-looking historical objects pictures, as well as pretty but accessible illustrations. I usually have to get multiple books, one for a more cartoony story, the other for real historical objects. Plus it highlights some examples of famous women and life as a woman in the same times. Great book to go with our studies of the mid 1700s.
October 13, 2016
I would highly recommend this title as a teaching tool regarding colonial times. I used it while teaching a home school unit and felt it an excellent way to engage students when there are no living history museums from that time period in our area. Well researched and informative without being too depressing for young minds.
March 3, 2016
I'm afraid I liked this book a lot more than my daughters did. Unfortunately when girls are the right age to want to play with Felicity, they're generally not the right age to want to study colonial American history. Still, I thought it was really interesting, so I'll give it a 3.5.
September 19, 2007
This is a very fun and exciting type history book for 1774 time period. it has very interesting facts and stories.
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June 30, 2009J973.2 Dec
July 28, 2016
A Review in Six Words
Solid research. Easy to read. Winner!
Solid research. Easy to read. Winner!
June 12, 2016
Was good. Informative. Very basic. Covered the war in a chapter. I wish there was a little more detail about everything.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews