I love this story out of today’s New York Times: a library that loans out an American Girl doll just like it does books.
Kirsten was my first American Girl doll, given to me for my 10th birthday. I loved her, and all the dolls I eventually received, passionately. M allowance went to buying them clothes and accessories and furniture, when I’d saved enough. I slept with them, traveled with them, and played with them every day. I devoured their stories. I chose Kirsten because she looked the most like me (at the time, there was only Kirsten, Samantha–brown hair and brown eyes–and Molly, with brown hair and grey eyes). They’re well-made dolls, designed to be loved and petted and, yeah, abused (Kirsten’s hair? Don’t even ask me about it. It’s a disaster). They inspire such great play and interaction between books and toys.
Mine are being saved for my kids, or my siblings’ kids, and I hope I can pass that unique magic down to them. More than any Barbie, these dolls become friends.
Oh, you don’t know how war and fuzzy my heart felt after reading this! Every little girl should have the chance to have a little ‘friend’ like Kristen! Thanks so very much for sharing this!
You know I have never owned one, but always wanted one.
They’re opening a store at Easton in the summer.
I remember you telling me about it. Too bad I am not up there to see.
Go to the website and browse to your heart’s content!