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Are you a fan of Samantha Parkington, one of the first American Girl characters, who has been wildly popular since her introduction in 1986? If so, better stock up on dolls and accessories now: the character is slated to be retired "soon," according to the company, which means the only products you'll be able to buy after Samantha is delegated to the American Girl "Archives" are the books.
I can't decide whether this is a natural evolution of the product cycle, or a shrewd attempt by American Girl to increase the value of Samantha dolls and inflate demand going into the Christmas season. After all, there's probably no American Girl character that inspires as much nostalgia as Samantha. Many mothers played with Samantha dolls when they were girls, and may feel the urge to make sure their own daughters don't miss out on the opportunity to do the same.
And don't think Samantha's going out without significant fanfare. According to a press release from the company, "American Girl is inviting fans to share their favorite Samantha memories at americangirl.com/stories. Visitors to the Share Your Samantha Memories site can post their cherished Samantha stories, read tributes from other Samantha fans, and celebrate her legacy as a friend to girls everywhere."
