I was first introduced to the American Girls when I was just 7 years old. The local library I frequently visited had a beautiful display of the first 5 dolls; Samantha, Kirsten, Felicity, Molly, and Addy. For each of these dolls, each one had a series of books set up around it. I, of course, was exactly the type of child these dolls were marketed to. Not was my favorite activity reading, but I loved reading about historical things and playing with dolls as well.

That year, I received the best Christmas gift ever! Or, at least the best gift of my childhood. My very own Samantha doll. I absolutely loved that doll from the moment I received it. It went with me everywhere. Fairly soon, I became completely obsessed with all things American Girl. I loved the stories, the clothes, the books, and the fact that you could dress-up just like them.

One thing that I can now appreciate as an adult is the fact that owning an American Girl really helped me to gain an appreciation of learning about history. I liked learning the types of clothes that were worn, the accessories from the time, and various other things. The American Girl stories helped to introduce me to things and then I would further research these things on my own.

Another thing the I love about the American Girl doll is, even though my doll was very well played with, the doll is still in great condition. Almost 20 years later, the doll is still as she was on the day I received her. Making this a perfect toy to pass down to my own daughter when she is older. I just hope she will have as great of an appreciation as I do.