Kit Kittredge, the movie, is one of the most family-friendly pieces of entertainment out there. It’s one of the very few live action movies that’s suitable for people of all ages. If I’m comfortable with my four-year-old watching it—yet my almost-30-year-old husband also found it funny and enjoyable—you know it’s an all-around great family movie.

It’s based on the American Girls character Kit Kittredge who wants to be a news reporter. It’s 1934 and the Great Depression is beginning to hit home. As her friends—and eventually her own family—struggle to make it day by day, Kit makes new friends she never thought she’d make while she solves a mystery, the life of a friend, and even her family in the end.

The movie features Abigail Breslin as adorable Kit as well as a huge cast, including Julia Ormond, Chris O’Donnell, Stanley Tucci, Joan Cusack, and many others. Each is believable and fun in the film, and though the Great Depression is definitely part of the plot, it’s not presented in a way that will ultimately frighten children. Instead, it will likely get them asking questions, which is a good thing.

Kids can also play at the movie’s website, where lots of fun with Kit’s dog, Grace, her clubhouse, and more await. Of course, fans of American Girls books and dolls can purchase Kit’s set if they choose as well.

If you’re interested in other American Girl films, you can find out more about them here. Molly, Samantha, Chrissa and Felicity have all been brought to life on film. If you like the books, you should definitely check out the movies.