The Books of The American Girls Collection

Back in 1986, Pleasant Company sold only three dolls -- Kirsten, Samantha, and Molly. The inside insert and backcover of each book were changed every time a new doll was introduced. Here is how the books evolved from 1986 to 2002:

A few years after Pleasant Company was founded they moved locations. The addresses are different on the copyright pages of the books. The earliest editions (without book numbers on the spine or cover) is 7 North Pinckney Street in Madison, Wisconsin. The later editions are 8400 Fairway Place in Middleton, Wisconsin. Much thanks to Jennifer M. for this discovery!

Each character has a different color, symbol, and sillhouette assigned to them; the binding helps you find their books easier when they are all in a bookshelf.

Kaya	Felicity	Josefina	Kirsten	Addy	Samantha	Rebecca	Kit	Molly	Julie
Light Blue	Dark Green	Red	Light Brown	Dark Brown	Burgandy	Purple	Teal	Dark Blue	Orange
1764	1774	1824	1854	1864	1904	1914	1934	1944	1974

I have not seen a book changed more times than Meet Molly has. I have seen four different versions! The first version was published in 1986, the second published in 1989 (with completely new illustrations), the third version has the same illustrations as the second book, but a new cover with blue binding. The new fourth version has the cover changed yet again.

First edition of Meet Molly(1986).	Second edition. (1989)	2004 version	Current version (2005)

Here is an example of the old versus new illustrations:

Illustration by C.F. Payne	Illustration by Nick Backes

As far as I know, three of the historical character's books now have completely new illustrations. These are Addy, Samantha, and Molly. The changes mostly took place in 1998. Felicity's illustrations were altered only to change the color of Elizabeth Cole's hair from brunette to blonde in 2005.

Signed AG books and flyers.	Pamphlets and brochures.

All pictures are owned by American Girl. I don't have any affiliation with American Girl.