A new American Girl® jewelry collaboration invites the AG squad to accessorize their fandom. Why not celebrate American Girl’s 40th in style? Alex + Ani’s delicately tasteful bangles, locket necklaces, and bracelets are tailored to an adult fan base, i.e. the nostalgic Gen Xers and Millennials who grew up in the dawn of Pleasant Company and are initiating new American Girl generations.

Curious about the connection between American Girl and reading? In commemoration of American Girl’s 40th, take a trip down memory lane with Julia Rittenberg to find out how Addy, Samantha, Molly, and the rest of the gang have captured the hearts of young readers.

Today’s American Girl initiate can read:

• a central book series for each of the historical characters
• middle grade mysteries for each
• contemporary “Girl of the Year” dedicated books
• a Smart Girls Guide series, including books about how to handle friendship, self-confidence, sports, and more.

While American history as told through the stories of these dolls has received mixed reviews, so many of us developed an early interest in historical fiction thanks to them.