Families who loved A Time to Dance: Virginia's Civil War Diary by Mary Pope Osborne often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child is facing a major life transition, such as moving to a new city or starting a new school, and needs to see that change can lead to wonderful self-discovery. Written in a diary format, the story follows young Virginia as her family relocates from the South to the bustling streets of 1860s New York City. While she initially feels like an outsider, her journey is one of finding her voice and her passion for the stage. This historical chapter book gently explores themes of resilience and the pursuit of dreams against the backdrop of post-Civil War America. It is perfectly suited for children ages 8 to 12 who are beginning to navigate their own identities. Parents will appreciate how the story balances the uncertainty of a big move with the excitement of following one's creativity, offering a hopeful perspective on how new environments can provide the space for hidden talents to bloom.
