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My Secret War: The World War II Diary of Madeline Beck, Long Island, New York 1941Mary Pope Osborne

Children's fiction

My Secret War: The World War II Diary of Madeline Beck, Long Island, New York 1941

by Mary Pope Osborne

182 pages · First published 2000

Thirteen-year-old Madeline Beck lives on Long Island in 1941 while her father serves overseas and her mother struggles with illness. Her diary records school, friendships, rationing, war news, and Madeline’s determination to contribute rather than simply wait for adults to act. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, distant international conflict becomes immediate American reality. Mary Pope Osborne’s Dear America novel follows a teenage girl through the first months of U.S. involvement in World War II, showing how war reshapes ordinary family and community life far from the battlefield.

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Suspense1 of 5
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No surprises at chapter twelve

Content notes

Wartime/battle violence and peril

Alcohol-Free Pour

New World Steamer

A gently sweet pour suits a lively, lighthearted reading mood.

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  1. Warm the milk gently, whisk in sweetener and spices until steaming and lightly frothy, then pour into a mug.
  2. Garnish: Light dusting of spice, optional.
  3. Glassware: Mug.
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Prospector Porter

For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.

Dark, toasty richness suits a lively, lighthearted reading mood.

What you'll need

  • 12 oz Porter

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How to mix it

  1. Pour into a clean pint glass and serve at the appropriate cool serving temperature.
  2. Garnish: None.
  3. Glassware: Pint glass.

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