Created by GardenGirl
Garden of Imagination is owned and operated by the Hicken Family of Spanish Fork, Utah. We enjoy selling products that little girls all over the wo... (more...)
Your fans are waiting!
American Girl Dolls Spark the Imagination of Young Girls Everywhere!
American Girl® Dolls are the second best selling dolls in the 7 to 12 year-old age group for girls. They come just behind Barbie®. In spite of the seemingly huge difference between these two dolls, they are both successful for some of the same reasons.
Like Barbie, a person can find just about anything they can imagine to go along with their doll. Historical American Girl dolls each come with their own set of books which serve as inspiration for a variety of clothing and accessories available for each character. Furniture and animals are also available to go with the 18-inch dolls.
Along with historically accurate clothing and accessories, there is a large variety of modern accessories for American Girl dolls. The American Girl of the Year dolls also include a story and a complete line of clothing and accessories. For example, the 2006 character Jess® travels to Belize on an archeological expedition with her parents. Therefore, you can purchase her travel kit, a kayak and even a tree swing.
This kind of variety sparks the creativity in little girls and even adult collectors. The possibilities are endless! And in addition to the doll clothing and accessories, you can also find matching clothing and accessories for little girls.
The second reason American Girl is so successful in their niche is the high quality of their merchandise. Yes, $80 to $100 is a lot to pay for any toy, but the quality of the dolls makes them worth the cost to most moms. A doll of this calibre can be passed on from generation to generation.
On the other hand, one might argue that the high cost of the dolls makes them inaccessible to lower income families. But fortunately, a lot of the major store chains (i.e. Wal-Mart, Toys R Us, ShopKo, and Target) have produced their own dolls that are similar in build and style to the American Girl dolls at a fraction of the cost.
In addition, many other retail companies have begun selling their own clothing and accessories that will work for the American Girl dolls. Garden of Imagination® is just one example of an online retail store that provides American Girl-sized clothes, shoes, accessories, and furniture.
Whether the dolls are genuine American Girl dolls, or a less expensive alternative, these dolls are also very easy to sew for. Many patterns are available for just about any style of clothing for the 18-inch dolls. In fact, a whole series of pattern books have been published and are available in many book stores or doll stores. The most popular pattern books were designed by the talented seamstresses Joan Hinds and Jean Becker.
The last reason American Girl dolls have been so well-received is the educational value of the characters. In particular, the historical dolls teach girls about history through the books and imaginative play. In addition, each character learns specific qualities that help her to overcome hardships. Felicity learns about tolerance and freedom in her series. Samantha learns about sacrifice and her obligation to help those who are less fortunate. These lessons about virtue are popular with parents and teachers, and help to justify the cost of these beautiful dolls.
In addition to children, moms and grandparents, these doll have become a collector's item for adult doll lovers. In fact, some of the most loyal customers are adults who collect the dolls and accessories for their own display. The appeal of these dolls is strong to almost anyone because of their versatility, high quality, and educational value. And most importantly, they spark the imagination of little girls and encourage creativity.
Now Available from Garden of Imagination
We offer quality products for American Girl dolls at affordable prices!
Find Other Fun American Girl Products...
American Girl
American Girl magazine is jam packed with the things that matter most to girls: party plans, games, crafts, and girl-to-girl advice. Parents also lov... more »
The Historical Characters
An introduction to the historical American Girl dolls
- Kaya 1764
Kaya® is a daring, adventurous Nez Perce girl living in 1764. Her deep love of horses and respect for nature nourish her spirit, as she dreams of becoming a courageous leader for her people. She's ready to meet whatever the future brings! Kaya draws strength from her family, the legends her elders tell, and the bold warrior woman who is her hero. And she learns that the choices she makes affect all Nez Perce people.
- Felicity & Elizabeth 1774
Felicity Merriman® is an independent, loyal, spirited girl growing up in colonial Virginia in 1774, just before the Revolutionary War. Felicity® is impatient doing the "sitting-down kinds of things" that colonial girls are expected to do. She much prefers to be outdoors, especially riding horses! In her stories, Felicity learns about loyalty and responsibility-to her family, her friends, and her country-and what it means to be truly independent. Elizabeth® is her best friend.
- Josefina 1824
Josefina Montoya® is a hopeful, caring, faithful girl. She is growing up in 1824 New Mexico, a place of sweeping big skies and hard work, danger, and dreams. In Josefina's stories, she and her family watch their old ways cross paths with the new as americano traders arrive from the east. Josefina is lucky to have her family and faith to guide her through all the changes in her life!
- Kirsten 1854
Kirsten Larson® is a brave, steadfast pioneer girl growing up on the Minnesota prairie in 1854. Her stories begin with her long, dangerous voyage with her family from Sweden to America. At first, Kirsten finds it difficult to get used to this strange new country. But as she makes friends and discovers what her new land has to offer, she learns the true meaning of home-and that love is the same in any language.
- Addy 1864
Addy Walker® is a courageous, strong girl growing up in 1864, during the Civil War. Addy's stories tell of her daring escape with her mother from slavery, and the challenges they face afterward as they try to reunite their family. But Addy's stories are about much more than hardship. They are full of the love and hope that help her get through the worst of times and keep her dreams alive.
- Samantha & Nellie 1904
Samantha Parkington® is a bright, compassionate, generous girl being raised by her wealthy grandmother in 1904, during a time of great change. Samantha's world is filled with frills and finery, parties and play. But Samantha sees that times are not good for everybody. That's why she tries to make a difference in the life of her friend Nellie, a servant girl whose world is nothing like Samantha's.
- Kit 1934
Kit Kittredge® is a clever, resourceful, inquisitive girl growing up in 1934, during the Great Depression. With spirit and determination, she takes on the economic and emotional challenges the Depression brings to her family. In her stories, Kit® learns what "waste not, want not" really means, reaches out to those who are far less fortunate than she is, and discovers that hope is always worth holding on to.
- Molly & Emily 1944
Molly McIntire® is a lively, lovable, patriotic girl growing up in 1944. Her stories describe her life on the home front during World War Two. Molly doesn't like many of the changes the war has brought, and she especially misses her father, who is away caring for wounded soldiers. But Molly learns the importance of getting along and pulling together-just as her country has to do to win the war! She also gains a good friend in Emily, an English girl who comes to stay with Molly's family.
The American Girl of The Year Series
An introduction to the modern American Girls of the Year
- Lindsey 2001
Ten-year-old Lindsey is full of good intentions. So why does she always wind up in trouble?
- Kailey 2003
Ten-year-old Kailey loves the tide pools on her beach. Can she find a way to save them from a developer who wants to build a marina?
- Marisol 2005
Marisol Luna is a ten-year-old girl who loves to dance. Ballet folklórico (Mexican folkdance) is her favorite type of dance, but she also does jazz, ballet, and a little tap! She is very disappointed when her parents decide to move to the Chicago suburbs-away from their close-knit neighborhood and Marisol's school and dance classes. But Marisol realizes that no matter where she is, it is her passion to dance that will help her persevere in the midst of change. Marisol's story will appeal to all readers-especially those who love dance.
- Jess 2006
With her first step off the airplane and into the sunny tropics, ten-year-old Jess McConnell begins an adventure. She and her parents are spending five months at an archeological dig of ancient Maya ruins in the Central American country of Belize. It's Jess's first time out of the United States. It's her first time being home-schooled. And it's her first trip without her older brother and sister to keep her company. Yet Jess is excited to explore a new place on her own. She's ready for adventure and anxious to discover just who she is. When Jess meets a new friend and is invited on an eco-adventure, she makes some real discoveries-about the wonders and the dangers of the Belizean jungle, about the people who have lived there since long ago, and about herself. The "True Story" section at the back of the book focuses on a girl from Florida who spends every summer in Belize with her archeologist parents.
- Nicki 2007
Nicki Fleming is a natural with animals. When the chance to train a service dog comes up, she just can't say "No," even if it means taking on more responsibility and having to give up some of the things she loves doing. When Sprocket the puppy turns out to be a handful, it takes all of Nicki's compassion to continue his training. She knows that one day Sprocket will make someone else's life better-and that makes all the difference. The "True Story" section at the back of the book focuses on real girls who have experience training service dogs.
Find American Girl Movies and Books on Amazon
#5
#7
#9
#10
#12
The New Historical Character in the American Girl® Collection
By Larisa Hicken
At last, the highly anticipated new historicalcharacter doll has arrived. Her name is Julie
Albright and she is 9 years old in the year 1974.
She lives in beautiful San Francisco, CA and her
best friend is named Ivy Ling.
Julie's book series includes six books and one
featuring Ivy Ling. The new doll and books are
available now from American Girl.
This new character is the first new historical doll to be released in several years. It will be interesting to observe the reactions of American Girl® fans to this new character. For one thing, 1974 was not that long ago in history!
Some moms may take offense when buying "historical" clothing for their daughters that is similar to clothing that they wore when they were children. Hopefully most moms will enjoy reliving the memories of their youth and teaching their daughters about the tumultuous 1970s. In particular, the record player accessory set could make for some fun conversations!
It is likely that American Girl® specifically chose this time period to target the buying customers' age group. This is a trend often seen recently on store shelves. It is like a nostalgic walk through my childhood when I walk down the toy aisle with my daughter. When I see all of my old favorites like Strawberry Shortcake, Rainbow Brite, and My Little Pony, I am filled with such happy memories that I want to throw everything in the cart so that my little girl can enjoy all of those same toys. It is definitely an effective marketing choice.
The new Julie doll has shiny blond hair and brown eyes. She has the same face mold as the Marisol doll from 2005. Her friend Ivy Ling has the same face mold as the Jess character. A new Asian doll will add great diversity to the American Girl® line of products and open a lot of possibilities for fun wardrobe choices.
There are two things we can be sure of. The new historical Julie doll will create some interesting conversation among parents and will be adored by little girls across the country. The Julie doll retails for $87 for the doll and paperback book. Or, you can buy her with her friend Ivy and their accessories and books for $199.
Other Resources for American Girl Fans
#1
Garden of Imagination - Your One-Stop Shop for 18-inch Doll Clothing and Accessories
Garden of Imagination is your one-stop shop for 18-inch dolls like American Girl and Magic Attic. We have a variety of clothing, accessories, and furn...1 point
#2
Garden of Imagination Doll Chat Board
Visit our newly released chat board for doll collectors of all ages. Post information, questions, or links about your favorite dolls here!1 point
#3
American Girl - The Official Website
American Girl is a premiere lifestyle brand that offers a variety of age-appropriate, high-quality dolls, books, clothing, and accessories. All of our...0 points
#4
American Girl Dolls Buying Guide
Learn more about the history of American Girl Dolls and use eBay's American Girl Dolls Buying Guide to buy wisely on eBay.0 points
#5
Our Web Store
Garden of Imagination is your one-stop shop for 18-inch dolls like American Girl and Magic Attic. We have a variety of clothing, accessories, and furn...0 points
#6
Welcome to Just Magic! A Resource for Collectors of 18 inch Dolls
Just Magic is an excellent resource for comparing the different body types of 18-inch dolls and reading about the history of your favorite dolls. It a...0 points
#7
Free Patterns from Bella Online
18 inch American Girl, Corolle, Gotz Precious Day and Similar Dolls at Dollmaking : Outfits that will fit 18-inch American Girl, 18-inch Corolle, 18-i...0 points
#8
Kathy's Kreations for Dolls
Find jewelry for your dolls at Kathy's Kreations.0 points
#9
Doll Care and Restoration Tips
Valuable tips and techniques for taking good care of your vinyl dolls.0 points
#10
American Girl Dolls in the News
Some articles about American Girl dolls, their creator Pleasant Rowland, and more!0 points
#11
American Girl Playthings!
A really cool website for American Girl doll collectors. You have got to check this one out!0 points
American Girl Treasures on eBay
Fetching new data from eBay now... please stand by
Vote for Your Favorite American Girl Doll
Okay, so it's difficult to choose just one, but you must try.
Add Your Thoughts
Share your opinions about your favorite American Girl dolls.
We love American Girl Dolls. We have 19 dolls - all the Historical Characters and 4 look alikes, plus the year dolls (Lindsey, Kailey, Marisol, and Jess). The only one we dont have is Nicki. We have the Bitty Twins and 2 Bitty Babies. Were excited for to hear about Julie and Ivy. Great info!
Posted July 09, 2007
I really like your lens. The American girl dolls are my favorite. I especially love Kirsten. I like reading about the dolls.
Posted May 15, 2007
What a terrific lens! I love dolls, and American Girls are irresistible! Thanks for celebrating the heart of American girls of all ages! Connie
Posted May 09, 2007
