American Girl Reveals 2014 Doll Of The Year
American Girl has revealed their 2014 doll of the year. Isabella is a ballerina with long blonde hair. Like all American Girl dolls, Isabella has a story. She is a 10-year-old aspiring ballerina who attends a school for performing arts. Although she struggles with self-esteem and adjusting to her new school, she eventually learns to accept her own unique style.
The Isabella doll will be available beginning January 1, 2014 for around $110 US dollars. Accessories, which can be purchased separately, will include a virtual performing arts school, apps, and a short film about the girl’s life.
The American Girl dolls debuted in 1986. They were initially sold through catalogs, which featured nine original 18-inch dolls, clothing, books, and accessories.
The first nine dolls had a historical theme. Each doll represented an important period in American history. The catalog also offered a book to go with each doll. The books featured each doll as a heroine during their particular period of history.
As reported by AmericanGirl.com, The American Girl magazine debuted in 1992, The magazine caters to the interests of young girls and currently has more than 450,000 subscribers.
In 1995, the company introduced the My American Girl collection, which girls could design to reflect their own looks, personality, and interests. They later introduced Bitty Baby and Bitty Twins dolls that are better suited for toddlers.
According to the company website, “American Girl has devoted its entire business to celebrating girls.” However, some girls would like to see a more diverse catalog. While the company offers wheelchairs and hearing aids, none of the featured dolls are seriously disabled.
Melissa Shang, age 10, suffers from a form of muscular dystrophy. Although she appreciates the fact that the wheelchair accessory is available, she would like to see a featured doll who has struggled with a disability. Philly.com reports that Shang would like to see a disabled doll featured in 2015.
Her petition for a truly unique American Girl doll can be found HERE.
[Image via Flickr]
