Several Girl of the Year Dolls Have Been Issued
The first Girl of the Year was Lindsey Bergman, a Jewish girl who was, sometimes, overeager to help. Then came Kailey Hopkins, a surfer girl and environmentalist. Last year brought us Marisol, a Hispanic girl who loved to dance and who moved from inner city Chicago to the suburbs (a move which, actually, surrounded the doll in some controversy).
Meet Jess Akiko McConnell
This year's Girl of the Year is Jess Akiko McConnell. Jess is a trend-setter for American Girls in several ways. First, she is the first bi-racial American Girl, with an Irish-American father and an Asian-American mother. Jess also is the first doll with a full story to have any Asian background.
Jess Travels To Belize
Jess' story centers on a trip that her archeologist parents make to Belize to study Mayan ruins. Jess comes along on the five month trip, leaving behind an older brother and older sister. While in Belize, Jess experiences her first home-schooling, and of course, foreign travel. She also discovers kayaking, and makes a new friend.
Jess Has Cool Accessories
Jess has excellent accessories available, and these include the Jess Travel Accessories set, which includes a shoulder bag with passport, document holder, map and guidebook, plus her plush monkey. Another accessory set includes Jess' kayak and gear (although the kayak is not supposed to be put in actual water). Clothing available includes Jess' kayaking outfits which includes a rashguard, pink shorts, kayaking shoes, a bathing suit, sunglasses and sunscreen. Of course, Jess also has her own summery PJs available.
It Is Possible To Dress Like Jess
Jess can also swing from her own tree swing. And, if your child likes to dress like her American Girl doll, you can get a matching halter top and tie-dye skirt for your daughter or matching PJs.
Jess is Only Available In 2006
If you like Jess, 2006 is your only chance to buy her at retail. The doll is only issued for this year or "as long as supplies last." Some of the Girl of the Year American Girls don't have supplies last until Christmas, such as last year's Marisol. And, some of the Girls of the Year and their accessories sell for top dollar on eBay. You can easily spend $200 to $300 for a mint Lindsey right now, and Marisol also sells at a premium over her original retail.
