New-to-me news: American Girl offers many of their popular historical dolls in a mini version, along with an abridged, miniature book. These small dolls are only six and a half inches tall—smaller than a Barbie—and they have posable limbs, cute outfits, and shiny hair.
Had I known these existed, I would have bought some for my kid who was an American Girl fan when she was younger. The dolls are collectible and fun to display, easy to travel with, and only about $30 each.
Mini American Girl dolls may be harder to find
Various mini American Girl dolls have been out since 1995. I just missed the memo! In the week that I've been tracking them (on Amazon, Walmart, and on the American Girl web site), availability has varied. However, certain stalwarts, including Samantha and Caroline, have been consistently available.
When I say "mini," I mean mini
These are really little at six and a half inches tall, which can be hard to tell when shopping online. One Amazon reviewer described the doll as "an ornament" which made me laugh but true, they are about the size of a Christmas tree ornament. If you are familiar with the Barbie universe, these dolls are smaller than Skipper but a tad larger than Chelsea. One could serve as a pretend toy for a full-size doll.
The book that the doll comes with is so small, my middle-aged eyes can barely read the pages. But the abridged story is in there! The book, too, can work as a prop for a full-size doll if a kid wants.
The small dolls are a more affordable way to introduce your child to some of the historical characters, who each represent a different era and topic in US history. While I'm thrilled that American Girl just rereleased eight historical dolls, those 18-inch full-size book-and-doll sets are $175 each. The American Girl Modern Era Collection of six historical dolls are 14.5-inch alternatives for $90 each. Meanwhile, the minis cost $30.
Designed for play, but beloved by collectors too
Though the minis are age-graded for 8+, I would trust a 6- or 7-year-old with one. There are tiny accessories, like removable shoes, barrettes, and clothes, but a Barbie-loving 6-year-old knows how to handle those. Because the minis are lower priced, I wouldn't be upset if my kid played with one, um, enthusiastically.
I think they'd make a great birthday gift and would add it to our list of the best gifts for a 7-year-old girl. But if a child wants the "real" thing—a full-size American Girl doll—I doubt one of these make a real substitute. These are more like cute extras.
I also think these make great gifts for nostalgic adults, big time. One of my coworkers who loved Samantha when she was young said she'd love a mini Samantha now, and I get it.
P.S.: If you're looking to get a first American Girl doll for a toddler or preschooler, remember there are now cuddly plush American Girl dolls for kids 18 months and up. Those are $65. So we're getting close to having American Girl doll versions for every age, and most pricepoints!
