Millions of girls have been waiting for the debut of the newest American Girl -- and now she's here! Kit Kittredge is a nine-year-old girl growing up during the 1930s, a time when banks failed, people lost their money, and families struggled -- but Americans opened their hearts and helped each other. When the hard times hit home, Kit responds with spirit and determination to help her family face the challenges the Depression brings to their lives.

Kit longs for a big story for her daily newspaper for Dad -- that is, until she's faced with news that's really bad. When Mother's friends lose their house and come to stay with her family, it's nothing but trouble for Kit. Then Kit's dad loses his business, and things go from bad to worse. Will life ever be the same again?