MAKE WAY FOR KAILEY…THE NEW AMERICAN GIRL OF TODAY!

Contemporary Character Encourages Today’s Girls to Make Their Own Mark on History

Middleton, WI – July 10, 2003 – Like the perfect wave, Kailey™—the newest American Girl of today—arrives with a splash this September. Kailey is the second in a series of limited-edition, contemporary characters from the American Girl Today® line and comes to life with her own special story and 18-inch doll, plus several outfits and accessories. And whether girls are drawn to this California gal’s penchant for crashing through waves on her boogie board or exploring the rocky tide pools, Kailey shows them that this is their moment in history to shine and instills a sense of pride in growing up a girl today.

The Kailey product will only be available while supplies last or until the end of 2004, when she’ll be replaced by the next contemporary character who reflects the interests and activities of girls today.

The Kailey book, written by award-winning author Amy Goldman Koss, shows a bright, determined 10-year-old girl faced with the seemingly impossible task of saving the tide pools she loves from a local developer. By the end of the story, Kailey learns that one person—even a young girl—can make a difference in the world and brings an inspiring message about the role girls can play in preserving nature. The book also includes a list of Web sites for virtual tide pools, plus the true story of a girl who won a Young Naturalist Award for her work protecting tide pools so that everyone—people and sea animals alike—can enjoy them.

A beautifully crafted Kailey doll, featuring long, sun-streaked blonde hair and cool, breezy beach attire, brings the new character to life for girls. Like any ocean lover, Kailey’s accessories include a wet suit and bikini, a boogie board, snorkel set complete with an underwater camera, and a lovable beach dog, Sandy, who barks when her paw is pressed.

The Kailey doll, book, and accessories will be introduced this July at American Girl Place®, and this September through American Girl’s consumer catalogue and at americangirl.com. To request a free consumer catalogue, call 1-800-845-0005.

ABOUT PLEASANT COMPANY
Introduced in 1995, American Girl Today is a line of contemporary dolls and accessories that celebrates the individuality and diversity of today’s American girls by reflecting their wide variety of lifestyles and interests. Driven by the same spirit and sensibilities that inspire The American Girls Collection® of historical characters, the American Girl Today line is designed to create a sense of pride, power, and possibility in today’s young girls.

Pleasant Company was founded in 1985 and was acquired by Mattel, Inc. (NYSE: MAT) in 1998. Deeply committed to its mission to educate and entertain, the American Girl® brand has earned the loyal following of millions of girls as well as the praise and trust of parents and educators.