At American Girl, our goal is to create girls of strong character. That’s why we’ve developed books and products that help girls grow up in a wholesome way, while encouraging them to enjoy girlhood through enchanting and fun play. Established as Pleasant Company in 1986 by founder Pleasant T. Rowland, American Girl has since grown to entertain and educate millions of girls. With the debut of our first catalogue, American Girl invited girls everywhere to meet our historical characters and enjoy our wholesome, beautifully made books and products. In 1992, American Girl expanded to a new medium to help affirm self-esteem, celebrate achievements, and foster creativity in today’s girls with the launch of American Girl® magazine, an age-appropriate alternative to teen magazines. With more than 620,000 subscribers, it ranks among the top ten children’s magazines in the nation and is the largest magazine dedicated exclusively to girls. Fueled by the success of our magazine, in 1995 we debuted Just Like You® dolls, a line of contemporary 18-inch dolls and accessories that represent the individuality and diversity of today’s American girls. For younger girls ages 3–6, American Girl introduced Bitty Baby® and the Bitty Twins®—soft, huggable baby and toddler dolls that encourage nurturing behavior. American Girl was acquired by Mattel, Inc.—the world’s leading toy company—in 1998. That same year, American Girl established its first experiential retail store in Chicago and has continued its retail expansion, opening destinations in major markets across the country. Made-for-TV movies and a new feature film are the latest ways we're connecting with girls, bringing their favorite stories to life on screen. Today, American Girl operates 5 experiential retail destinations in the Chicago, New York City, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Dallas markets. We are expanding our retail presence with two new stores in the Fall of 2008. American Girl will be entering the Boston market at the Natick Collection, and the Twin Cities at the Mall of America. At the store, girls can shop for their favorite American Girl books, dolls, and accessories; get a new ’do for their dolls in our signature Doll Hair Salon; and savor a delicious lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch from a menu of classic American favorites. There’s even an interactive dessert bar and private party rooms for birthdays and other special celebrations. While a job at an American Girl store certainly isn’t child’s play, it is an unparalleled opportunity to work in a very special place brimming with youthful energy and enthusiasm. Visit our website at www.mattel.com/careers to view current employment opportunities. Join the fun!