AMERICAN GIRL ADDRESSES THE TRUTH ABOUT REAL BEAUTY

New Advice Book Boosts Confidence and Helps Girls Bring Out the Best in Themselves

Middleton, WI – August 16, 2004 – In a day and age of extreme makeovers and obsession with outward appearances, it’s hard for anyone—especially impressionable young girls—to understand what real beauty is. Furthermore, studies show that as girls approach adolescence, there is an increased concern with their appearance and a simultaneous decline in their self-esteem. To address this issue head-on, American Girl will introduce the book, Real Beauty: 101 Ways to Feel Great About You this September, as part of the American Girl Library® line of advice and activity books for girls ages 8 and up.

“We receive numerous letters from girls expressing concerns about their appearance,” says Therese Kauchak, senior editor for American Girl and author of Real Beauty. “And with the unrealistic images of beauty in the media, coupled with the normal anxieties girls feel over their changing bodies, it’s no wonder they feel insecure. Real Beauty reassures girls and sends them an important message: You are more than just how you look—you’re what you can do, how you think, and how you treat other people.”

In a departure from beauty books that focus on makeup and fashion, Real Beauty provides girls with insightful advice on topics like how to focus on being healthy instead of skinny, and how to question the stereotypes of beauty they see in the media. Through tips, quizzes and quotes from real girls, the new book helps readers see that real beauty comes from liking yourself, feeling strong and healthy, and from knowing what's beautiful in everyone around you.

Real Beauty will be available this September in bookstores nationwide, at American Girl Place® in Chicago and New York, through the American Girl catalogue, and at americangirl.com. To place an order or request a free American Girl catalogue, call 1-800-845-0005.

ABOUT AMERICAN GIRL
Introduced in 1995, American Girl Library is a line of bestselling advice and activity books that reflects the spirit and interests of today’s American girl. The lively collection of books is inspired by the most popular sections of American Girl® magazine and covers such topics as friendships, health and wellness, decorating and party ideas, crafts, and school tips.

The American Girl business was founded in 1985 by Pleasant T. Rowland and was acquired by Mattel, Inc. in 1998. Deeply committed to its mission to celebrate girls, the American Girl® brand has earned the loyal following of millions of girls as well as the praise and trust of parents and educators.