Kristiana Gregory's first My America, book one of Hope's Diary, details life in Philadelphia during the Revolutionary War. As tensions rise between the Tories and Patriots, Hope's life in Philadelphia becomes more confusing. Will Papa ever return from his voyage? Has he been killed, or worse become a Tory? When Hope's thirteen-year-old brother Ethan proclaims that he too is a Tory, it seems that the family is falling apart. Hope ends her diary sure that Papa and Ethan will return.

In Ms. Gregory's sequel to Five Smooth Stones, Hope's brother returns, but she worries about her father's fate and that of Philadelphia. This book is part of the relaunch of the My America series. In this wonderful second book featuring Hope Penny Potter, the Revolutionary War wages on and Hope's daily life is much affected. The war has even kept her from her dear friend, Polly, whose parents are loyal to the King. But when Hope's much missed brother and father return, relief sets in, if only for a short while. For the plot thickens when Hope finds out that her father was with the Sons of Liberty and they will be in danger if anyone finds out.

In Hope's third and final diary, by Kristiana Gregory, we meet Hope once again in the middle of the Revolutionary War, as she continues to bravely face the turmoil and violence. Hope describes the realities of life in Pennsylvania as she is caught up in the midst of the Revolutionary War. Though the emerging nation's future is still uncertain, Hope remains optimistic and brave.