Dickens & Rumi
Cover of Kit Kittredge: An American Girl

film

Kit Kittredge: An American Girl

2008

The Great Depression hits home for nine year old Kit Kittredge when her dad loses his business and leaves to find work. Oscar nominee Abigail Breslin stars as Kit, leading a splendid cast in the first ever "American Girl" theatrical movie. In order to keep their home, Kit and her mother must take in boarders - paying house - guests who turn out to be full of fascinating stories. When mother's lockbox containing all their money is stolen, Kit's new hobo friend Will is the prime suspect. Kit refuses to believe that Will would steal, and her efforts to sniff out the real story get her and friends into big trouble. The police say the robbery was an inside job, committed by someone they know. So if it wasn't Will, then who did it.

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At a glance

Recommended ageNot listed

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes2/5
  • Products & advertising2/5
  • Romance1/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Good role models4/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising2/5
Why this rating?

The American Girl branding and franchise connection are clear, but the story itself is not primarily an advertisement and no specific products are promoted in the supplied passages.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Very mild language consistent with a G-rated film.

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

Very minor, age-appropriate crushes or mentions of relationships.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

Brief moments of tension regarding the robbery and investigation.

Violence1/5
Why this rating?

Some minor physical conflicts and suspense related to the mystery.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Kit demonstrates bravery by seeking truth despite social disapproval.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Encourages writing, journalism, and creative problem-solving.

Diverse representation3/5
Why this rating?

Explores socioeconomic status and features diverse characters within the hobo community.

Educational value3/5
Why this rating?

The story offers accessible context about the Great Depression, unemployment, homelessness, journalism and community life.

Kindness & empathy4/5
Why this rating?

Kindness to the marginalized and family cooperation are central themes.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Emphasizes resilience, resourcefulness, empathy, and the importance of family and integrity.

Good role models4/5
Why this rating?

Kit is a hardworking, principled, and ambitious role model.

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Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in Kit Kittredge: An American Girl would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in Kit Kittredge: An American Girl, and what caused that change?
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