I purchased my first American Girl (AG) doll for my oldest daughter, who is now 16, about 12 years ago. The dolls were originally made in Germany. I don’t know where they are manufactured now. As my tastes for dolls has grown, I have decided that the AG approach to dolls is not to my liking. First, the skin tone of the caucasian dolls is unattractive. Most little girls with light skin have a peaches and cream type complexion. In fact, all little girls have gorgeous porcelain-like skin that simply glows, but the AG dolls are flat looking, color-wise. No roses in their cheeks. Next, their facial sculpt is not delicate, but rather squarish with two teeth showing in a sort-of smile. And the body design is, in my opinion, kind of clunky. My ten year old daughters, even the one with big bones, were never that thick.
Finally, the push for endless accessories became more than I could take. A spa outfit for a dog? Please. I was spending more to dress our two AG dolls than I was on myself. Really. Last Spring, I concluded that we aren’t an AG family. Simpler is better, we don’t need beds, and wardrobes, pets and countless outfits (no matter how gorgeous) for a doll. AG is a marketing executive’s dream: an endless stream of sales thanks to an endless stream of belongings to go with each doll. And now, in addition to purchasing your historically correct doll, doll of today, or baby doll, you can purchase a best friend too. None of the AG stuff we owned or read increased anyone’s intelligence around my house. There are far better books for little girls to read that aren’t contrived like the AG books are made to fit a product line. I think this sort of merchandising breeds a “collect it all” mentality that is difficult to afford, even if everyone in the family is buying things for the AG doll. I’m so glad we gave our dolls away three or four months ago. However, I’m impressed with those who are expressing their dismay to AG. Thank you for taking a stand.
And I’ve also bought their books. One book, “The Care and Keeping of You” reminds me of a kid-friendly version of “Our Bodies, Ourselves” with cartoon-like drawings, including ones that picture breast development by stages and how to insert a tampon for the first time. The book does not discuss sexuality beyond menstruation. I knew when this book came out so many years ago that I would have to be very careful about this company. Thanks for letting me vent. I’m sorry that this company has choosen this path.
