Curious About Kit? This American Girl Has a Story to Tell (2024)

Over two decades ago, in 2000, American Girl released its seventh historical character, Kit Kittredge, as the world faced a new millennium and a stock market crash. Twenty-three years later, the story of Kit comes at a valuable economic time for kids and their families as American Girl releases Kit Kittredge’s Special Edition Birthday Collection.

Kit’s story is one of perseverance and resourcefulness as her father loses his job in the Great Depression era and her family turns their home into a boarding house to make money. At first, Kit is resentful of the changes and the chores, but soon learns that life is what you make of it. Rather than focus on the negative, she learns to adapt. Kit finds lessons in life and in the stories of others that she meets. It is a valuable topic about money, family, and strength of character in hard times—and it’s a timely story for kids to learn.

Mattel has re-released Kit and parts of her original collection in this special birthday tribute, which includes a 18-inch Kit doll that matches the original doll from 2000. A fun fact is that Kit was the first historical doll to have short hair, which she still sports in a blond bob style.

Her blue eyes complement her short-sleeved lavender knit sweater, a matching long-sleeved lavender knit cardigan, a floral-print linen pleated skirt, and a pair of ivory-hued canvas T-strap sandals. Accessories include a white crocheted cloche hat, a golden-metal compass necklace, a woven purse with embroidered flowers, a cloth handkerchief, and a replica metal Buffalo nickel coin.

Other sold-separately accessories include the fan-favorite scooter, lunch box, Grace the dog, and the classic birthday outfits and pajamas. The doll retails for $150 on the American Girl website and in its stores. While the cost of the doll may be cost-prohibitive for some families; there are many second-hand dolls, books, DVDs, and other lower price point accessories on Amazon, eBay, or Etsy where kids can learn about Kit, her story, and the lessons that both evoke. Also, contact local parenting groups or Facebook Marketplace groups for dolls that need a new home.