What a relief to find a software program for girls that inspires botheducational and emotional development. Based on the scholastic book andtelevision series of the same name,Dear America: Friend to Friendintroduces role models for young women that teach history, social studies, andcreative expression. Through diary pages, follow-up questions, and messagesdirect from each of six new friends, girls are encouraged in their ownself-expression and introspection.

The program begins with a personal feel: each player is required to log on witha name and password, suggesting secrets to share. Choosing which character tovisit first is hard--each is well developed and true to both her time andenvironment. From Hattie Campbell (who endured the Oregon Trail in 1848) toClotee (a conductor of the Underground Railroad),Dear Americashares theexperiences of both historical joys and hardships through the personalities ofeach character.

The program's breadth of activities is its most appealing quality. Players canspeak with every character--gaining both friendship and historicalknowledge--and modify the direction of each story. Secret Self activities provide outletsfor personal development and discovery through personality quizzes and otherintellectual challenges. Additional features include musical selections fromeach time period, a private journal, and a search for historical collectibles.(Ages 8 to 12)--Madeleine J. Miller