Man, I am impressed! I wasn't that excited for her when I heard she was a dancer, but a speech impediment is a step in the right direction! The Dj and poetry aspects are cool too. Still don't think I'll get the doll, but definitely will enjoy her. Will she have a movie though? I would assume so, but of course, things can change. All in all, a surprise that will be very appreciated by the rest of the doll world.
"American Girl, owned by Mattel, is breaking with tradition of having its "Girl of the Year" only available for that calendar year. Gabriela will be available beyond 2017. The doll is expected to sell for $115-$120." The quote came from this article.http://www.azcentral.com/story/entertainment/kids/2016/12/29/american-girl-doll-of-the-year-gabriela-mcbride/95885710/
The lady on GMA was speaking very fast, and couldn't seem to wait to get to the next segment. Also it seem they didn't really know how to use the doll stand. The doll looks like she is almost falling off the stand. I defently want the mini doll, but I don't think I'll get the big doll. I already have 3 (#23, Grace, and I just got Maryellen for Christmas). Also if they make the movie I'll add it to my AG movie collection.
Even though I have My AG aka Truly Me 46 doll I will definitely buy the 18inch Gabriella doll and support her collection. I missed out on the Ivy doll as the first Asian American historical doll because I assumed they would replace her with another Asian historical doll. Now everytime I think of historical Asian traditions and history I think of Ivy and her book. I even miss how AG disussed and explained Chinese New Year along with Ivy and made an outfit for her collection. My family helped me see that Gabby is more than just a doll of the year she is iconic because she is the first African American girl of the year. I do not want to miss out on this collection like I did Ivy's.
Sonali face mold and classic have been used for all the dolls of color. Still we saw what happened when a new facemold was made for Marie Grace. She didn't sell well and the business wants to make money. I'm more concerned about the changes in packaging frankly.
I'm interested to see how her hair is styled. She looks so pretty in the stock photo. I can't tell if it's just a basic ponytail, or if it's something fancier and more complicated, like partially braided.
I do wish AG had added just a few freckles on her, just to make her more unique.
I'm wondering what the chances are my kids would leave Gabriela's hair in her ponytail. The curls intimidate me. Is it possible to hot water treat them to loosen the curl and make the hair brushable?
I really like the background scenes they used on GMA and in some of the promotional pictures. I hope those will be available for purchase, at a reasonable price.
Thanks, ladies! So far, I'm liking her collection. I could see everything getting a lot of play. I'm kind of glad to not see huge items that cost a fortune and take up a lot of space.
I seem to be the only one majorly disappointed that the first dark skinned GOTY appears to be a rip-off mish-mosh of other AG things. My first response was, "They planned this?" It really looks to me like someone said, "No, we have to do it for PR or they'll get really upset and stop buying." Which someone replied with, "Fine but I'm not making a new doll. Use that one with the hair and make cheap versions of Marisol's stuff - no cat - and give it an 80's vibe. Those dumb collectors will eat that up as memories from their childhood."
It's not even like the marketing department had to show up for work.
To me, that's the greatest problem. Little brown girls are not a cookie cutter facemold with European features and they shouldn't be made - no matter what decade (I'm taking to you, Melody) - to view that as an ideal look. Likewise, where's the black culture? White washed again! You can't hint at culture without substance (unless you're Disney, thank you, Moana) and not expect someone to notice.
On the flip side, I wrote Battat two years ago asking why there was no Asian face mold and why only one dark skinned mold? Let's keep in mind that they only had two Caucasian molds in wide use at the time. Their response? "We're working on that and we want to get it right. Thank you for your patience." In case you missed it, 2016 saw a second Asian mold (first in 2015) and a second dark skinned mold. While I have issues with OG distribution and availability, I feel that they genuinely care more about fair play and value than Mattel. That's what this next generation needs and what my generation needs reminding of.
Gabriela is a toy. American Girl is a brand. Mattel is a manufacturer. Who's responsibility is it to determine what is learned by this toy? What I learned is that the once accountable for our future leaders toy makers have forgotten what matters more than the bottom line.
I absolutely can relate to what you said. I am a little concerned myself about their lack of creativity used to create a new doll with new features. I thought about marketing and then finances of a company and at the end of the day, AG are toy manufacturers with great authors working for them. They do not have to give everyone what they want, but they do want to tread carefully with the demand of inclusion knowing that inclusion attracts more people and therefore more sales.$$$$ The company saved money and at the end we all get to welcome a new AA doll who is GOTY. Yes, this is not a surprise. As a younger sister I too am used to hand me downs, especially the really nice kind that you know your parents paid a lot of money for and are not about to think of throwing it out until it is worn out. That is AG's motto...not a new concept to collectors or anyone who has ever had to rock their older sister's sweater. We all know how to make a penny scream when times get tight...companies are no different. Yes they could have tried a new doll that would have been amazing, but they didn't and decided to reuse and remake an old concept that wasn't broken. They are playing it safe with this doll, not the case with Tenney. Could this be a double standard...absolutely, but at the end of the day they are a company that deals in numbers. They are counting on Tenney to boost sales if Gabby flops. People like me have waited too many years for a AA GOTY doll to see it flop and not sell. If they want to play into the 80s and 90s crowd, good that means that they know who pays for these dolls. It is a win win!
I am a African-American American. I have purchased 57 American Girl Brand Dolls for my 6 year old in 4 years. We have blessed other with 5 of them, so we have 51 at home. Due to the impact of the economy on my Family this year, it is a concern if we can buy the very 1st American Girl Brand Doll that Girl of The Year and A/American. Nothing would make us happier then to make this purchase. In a effort to purchase her, we have 1 of Our 2 Caroline Abbott Retired Dolls, Her Bed and Skiff, plus a custom made Cinderella Dress for sale for $350.00 on three sites. No one has even made a a offer. So, this tells me even more about our economy. They could not over invest in this project. The simple fact is this is there best effort for such a economy as this. #46 was our very 1 Doll and we will gladly purchase this Doll with the greatest of honor as soon as possible. Thank you so very much American Girl Brand Doll Company. God Bless You.
Nonna - I'm honestly curious because I truly just don't know - what should have AG done or included to bring in more black cuilture? And to the doll and collection? Or to her storyline?
I love her look, minus the ugly clothing and cheap looking accessories. I'm happy she's a girl of color but she honestly looks like a AG version of Flashdance. We haven't befn happy since Grace. Not a fan of Leah, either. Gabriela's story feels cheap as well as her accessories and clothes. Honestly, if her story were more like Leah, I would find her more interesting. My mature 7 year old thinks thinks Gabriela is pretty but that her clothing is horrible. She said it looks like she is wearing pajamas! We also think the studio looks cheap. I'm honestly not too happy with her except that she's Black. And that's really shallow. I want more and not stereotyping. Why are Black people always singers and entertainers? Why can't she be a naturalist or scientist? Her character and outfits are so stereotypical. We have beautiful Melody and she's awesome as well as her accessories! Now I feel like Mattel introduced a Flashdance inspired doll which seems to dumb it down. I like that she overcomes stuttering but the rest of her story serms so cliche. It's like Goodtimes and Flashdance morphed. I wish aI might buy her used, but right now my kids would rather have Melody, so we likely won't be purchasing Gabriela.
Me too. But love her and will buy her. I think the state of the economy had a major impact. They coukd could it off using only the inventory they had on hand. I beleive as a African-American this will be a stretch financially
Adorable doll but horrific clothing and accessories. The worst is the story is pretty cliche. I'm glad a person of color but how predictable and poorly executed.
I am in love. Thank you American Girl Brand.
ReplyDeleteMan, I am impressed! I wasn't that excited for her when I heard she was a dancer, but a speech impediment is a step in the right direction! The Dj and poetry aspects are cool too. Still don't think I'll get the doll, but definitely will enjoy her. Will she have a movie though? I would assume so, but of course, things can change. All in all, a surprise that will be very appreciated by the rest of the doll world.
ReplyDeleteNo,Gabriela will not have a movie as far as I have heard but that might change.
DeleteLove Jennifer Beals Love this new GOTY
ReplyDelete"American Girl, owned by Mattel, is breaking with tradition of having its "Girl of the Year" only available for that calendar year. Gabriela will be available beyond 2017. The doll is expected to sell for $115-$120." The quote came from this article.http://www.azcentral.com/story/entertainment/kids/2016/12/29/american-girl-doll-of-the-year-gabriela-mcbride/95885710/
ReplyDeleteThat is really surprising to me. Thanks for pointing that out. Madelon
DeleteThe first GOTY wasn't a one year deal so while it may have been a choice, it isn't breaking the mold to do it.
DeleteInteresting. Madelon
DeleteThe lady on GMA was speaking very fast, and couldn't seem to wait to get to the next segment. Also it seem they didn't really know how to use the doll stand. The doll looks like she is almost falling off the stand. I defently want the mini doll, but I don't think I'll get the big doll. I already have 3 (#23, Grace, and I just got Maryellen for Christmas). Also if they make the movie I'll add it to my AG movie collection.
ReplyDeleteI heard she won't have a movie but that could change.
DeleteShe's a beautiful doll, but looks too much like a Truly Me, to me.
ReplyDelete<3 , IrishAG
Even though I have My AG aka Truly Me 46 doll I will definitely buy the 18inch Gabriella doll and support her collection. I missed out on the Ivy doll as the first Asian American historical doll because I assumed they would replace her with another Asian historical doll. Now everytime I think of historical Asian traditions and history I think of Ivy and her book. I even miss how AG disussed and explained Chinese New Year along with Ivy and made an outfit for her collection. My family helped me see that Gabby is more than just a doll of the year she is iconic because she is the first African American girl of the year. I do not want to miss out on this collection like I did Ivy's.
ReplyDeleteShe looks like melody same face mold
ReplyDeleteSonali face mold and classic have been used for all the dolls of color. Still we saw what happened when a new facemold was made for Marie Grace. She didn't sell well and the business wants to make money. I'm more concerned about the changes in packaging frankly.
DeleteI'm interested to see how her hair is styled. She looks so pretty in the stock photo. I can't tell if it's just a basic ponytail, or if it's something fancier and more complicated, like partially braided.
ReplyDeleteI do wish AG had added just a few freckles on her, just to make her more unique.
I'm wondering what the chances are my kids would leave Gabriela's hair in her ponytail. The curls intimidate me. Is it possible to hot water treat them to loosen the curl and make the hair brushable?
I really like the background scenes they used on GMA and in some of the promotional pictures. I hope those will be available for purchase, at a reasonable price.
I think AG suggested using a finger to make pin curls or to use their hair pick. Madelon
DeleteThe entire collection is just under $600.00 The background scene with Ballet Bar is only $58.00 Doll still $115.00 Tap Silver Shoes $18.00
DeleteIs the background available for sale? Madelon
DeleteYes it will sell as part of her collection, it is her dance studio on one side and a brick wall with a mural to represent the community center.
DeleteThanks, ladies! So far, I'm liking her collection. I could see everything getting a lot of play. I'm kind of glad to not see huge items that cost a fortune and take up a lot of space.
DeleteI seem to be the only one majorly disappointed that the first dark skinned GOTY appears to be a rip-off mish-mosh of other AG things. My first response was, "They planned this?" It really looks to me like someone said, "No, we have to do it for PR or they'll get really upset and stop buying." Which someone replied with, "Fine but I'm not making a new doll. Use that one with the hair and make cheap versions of Marisol's stuff - no cat - and give it an 80's vibe. Those dumb collectors will eat that up as memories from their childhood."
ReplyDeleteIt's not even like the marketing department had to show up for work.
To me, that's the greatest problem. Little brown girls are not a cookie cutter facemold with European features and they shouldn't be made - no matter what decade (I'm taking to you, Melody) - to view that as an ideal look. Likewise, where's the black culture? White washed again! You can't hint at culture without substance (unless you're Disney, thank you, Moana) and not expect someone to notice.
On the flip side, I wrote Battat two years ago asking why there was no Asian face mold and why only one dark skinned mold? Let's keep in mind that they only had two Caucasian molds in wide use at the time. Their response? "We're working on that and we want to get it right. Thank you for your patience." In case you missed it, 2016 saw a second Asian mold (first in 2015) and a second dark skinned mold. While I have issues with OG distribution and availability, I feel that they genuinely care more about fair play and value than Mattel. That's what this next generation needs and what my generation needs reminding of.
Gabriela is a toy. American Girl is a brand. Mattel is a manufacturer. Who's responsibility is it to determine what is learned by this toy? What I learned is that the once accountable for our future leaders toy makers have forgotten what matters more than the bottom line.
No Gabriela for me.
I absolutely can relate to what you said. I am a little concerned myself about their lack of creativity used to create a new doll with new features. I thought about marketing and then finances of a company and at the end of the day, AG are toy manufacturers with great authors working for them. They do not have to give everyone what they want, but they do want to tread carefully with the demand of inclusion knowing that inclusion attracts more people and therefore more sales.$$$$ The company saved money and at the end we all get to welcome a new AA doll who is GOTY. Yes, this is not a surprise. As a younger sister I too am used to hand me downs, especially the really nice kind that you know your parents paid a lot of money for and are not about to think of throwing it out until it is worn out. That is AG's motto...not a new concept to collectors or anyone who has ever had to rock their older sister's sweater. We all know how to make a penny scream when times get tight...companies are no different. Yes they could have tried a new doll that would have been amazing, but they didn't and decided to reuse and remake an old concept that wasn't broken. They are playing it safe with this doll, not the case with Tenney. Could this be a double standard...absolutely, but at the end of the day they are a company that deals in numbers. They are counting on Tenney to boost sales if Gabby flops. People like me have waited too many years for a AA GOTY doll to see it flop and not sell. If they want to play into the 80s and 90s crowd, good that means that they know who pays for these dolls. It is a win win!
DeleteI am a African-American American. I have purchased 57 American Girl Brand Dolls for my 6 year old in 4 years. We have blessed other with 5 of them, so we have 51 at home. Due to the impact of the economy on my Family this year, it is a concern if we can buy the very 1st American Girl Brand Doll that Girl of The Year and A/American. Nothing would make us happier then to make this purchase. In a effort to purchase her, we have 1 of Our 2 Caroline Abbott Retired Dolls, Her Bed and Skiff, plus a custom made Cinderella Dress for sale for $350.00 on three sites. No one has even made a a offer. So, this tells me even more about our economy. They could not over invest in this project. The simple fact is this is there best effort for such a economy as this. #46 was our very 1 Doll and we will gladly purchase this Doll with the greatest of honor as soon as possible. Thank you so very much American Girl Brand Doll Company. God Bless You.
DeleteNonna - I'm honestly curious because I truly just don't know - what should have AG done or included to bring in more black cuilture? And to the doll and collection? Or to her storyline?
DeleteI love her look, minus the ugly clothing and cheap looking accessories. I'm happy she's a girl of color but she honestly looks like a AG version of Flashdance. We haven't befn happy since Grace. Not a fan of Leah, either. Gabriela's story feels cheap as well as her accessories and clothes. Honestly, if her story were more like Leah, I would find her more interesting. My mature 7 year old thinks thinks Gabriela is pretty but that her clothing is horrible. She said it looks like she is wearing pajamas! We also think the studio looks cheap. I'm honestly not too happy with her except that she's Black. And that's really shallow. I want more and not stereotyping. Why are Black people always singers and entertainers? Why can't she be a naturalist or scientist? Her character and outfits are so stereotypical. We have beautiful Melody and she's awesome as well as her accessories! Now I feel like Mattel introduced a Flashdance inspired doll which seems to dumb it down. I like that she overcomes stuttering but the rest of her story serms so cliche. It's like Goodtimes and Flashdance morphed. I wish aI might buy her used, but right now my kids would rather have Melody, so we likely won't be purchasing Gabriela.
DeleteLOVE THIS DOLL BUT I WISH THAT AG WOULD OF DONE SOMETHIGNG AMAZING FOR THIS FIRST AA GOTY DOLL.
ReplyDeleteMe too. But love her and will buy her. I think the state of the economy had a major impact. They coukd could it off using only the inventory they had on hand. I beleive as a African-American this will be a stretch financially
DeleteAdorable doll but horrific clothing and accessories. The worst is the story is pretty cliche. I'm glad a person of color but how predictable and poorly executed.
ReplyDelete