American Girl of the Year 2013: Saige Copeland {Review}

My girls have loved American Girl for some time now, but their love turned into an obsession ever since we visited the American Girl Cafe in New York City this Summer.  It was that visit that sparked my oldest daughter to want to learn about the dolls instead of just play with them.  When we got home, she grabbed the chapter book of her latest doll (Caroline) and started reading.

She could not have been more excited to receive the 2013 American Girl of the Year, Saige Copeland.  As with any American Girl doll, we were first stunned at the beautiful detail.  Saige has auburn hair, blue eyes, and freckles.  She quickly spotted Saige’s earrings and turquoise ring…this is her first doll with jewelery!  The embroidery on her blue dress is beautiful and the brown boots have a cool buckle detail.

Before long, my daughter spotted the book and was ready to get to know the new doll.  Saige Copeland lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico with her Mom and Dad (who is a commercial airline and hot air balloon pilot).  After a fun summer, she can’t wait to get back to school and see her best friend, Tessa.  While Saige loves art, Tessa was away at music camp all summer and made some new friends.  Saige’s return to school quickly becomes sad as she and Tessa grow apart which is only multiplied by the fact that her art class was canceled due to school budget cuts.  Fortunately, Saige’s Grandma Mimi loves art, too and encourages her to take action and save her art program.  Saige will lead a parade on Mimi’s horse, Picasso, to kick off an Art Fiesta which will raise money for the arts in the community.  My daughter is loving the book and I will admit that I can’t wait to turn the page and find out what happens next!

Saige has some great accessories to inspire imaginative play and bring the story to life.  From the horse and saddle set to the hot air balloon, I love the bright colors in this collection.  And if your child loves horses and painting like Saige, check out the free app from American Girl, Painting Ponies.

This post is the opinion of The Experimental Mommy.  While a product was received to facilitate this review, all opinions remain 100% mine.