American Girl Homeless for the Holidays
We’re four days away from Christmas, so you’ll be forgiven if you think the biggest controversy in the toy box is the scarcity of Zhu Zhu Pets.
Earlier this year, Mattel subsidiary American Girl has introduced a new doll this season named “Gwen.” And yes, like all the AG gals, you can take her for tea parties and to get her hair done and whatever else you do with American Girls.
But Gwen differs from her plastic sisters in a very important way: Her character is homeless, which has stirred up a bit of attention, to say the least.
First off, this isn’t a fundraising effort for any charity (although the company does reportedly give money to nonprofit like HomeAid). Secondly, the doll costs $95, making it a bit out of reach for any family that is even remotely in need this holiday season.
CBS News has an interesting story on the situation, and what influence the doll might have on how children perceive the issue of homelessness.
What do American Girl’s faithful followers think of the controversy? They’re outraged! Nah, not really.
A spin through the 26 pages of comments on the doll’s page at the AG site lovingly pay homage to her “chocolate eyes,” the “beautiful” embroidery and “neat texture” on her dress, and her “pretty warm blonde” hair.
A few posters allude to the kerfuffle over her being homeless, and seem to think its silly, as they (or their kids) don’t care. They seem more concerned over the fact that her sandal straps don’t stay on and break easily.
What do you think? Me, although I always thought it would be fun to have a little girl, it makes me kinda glad I have two boys. The world of Legos and action figures is easier to navigate.
