Author Angela Cervantes
Angela began writing stories at nine years old, and, like Raquel, she’s Mexican American and lives in Kansas City.
Illustrator Fátima Anaya
Born in El Salvador and now in Montréal, Fátima illustrates magical moments inspired by her childhood.
Illustrator Maike Plenzke
Maike creates colorful artwork for book covers, magazines, comic books, and more in her Berlin studio.
Author Angela Cervantes
Angela began writing stories at nine years old, and, like Raquel, she’s Mexican American and lives in Kansas City.
Illustrator Fátima Anaya
Born in El Salvador and now in Montréal, Fátima illustrates magical moments inspired by her childhood.
Illustrator Maike Plenzke
Maike creates colorful artwork for book covers, magazines, comic books, and more in her Berlin studio.
Advisor Nicole Davi
Nicole holds the position of Director of Research at the National Council for Adoption.
Advisor Dr. Diana Leon-Boys
Dr. Leon-Boys is a leading scholar of Latina girlhood and an expert in Latina girls’ media studies.
Advisor Dr. Sarah Sharp
Dr. Sharp is a marine veterinarian who leads a dolphin rescue and rehabilitation program.
Advisor Nicole Davi
Nicole holds the position of Director of Research at the National Council for Adoption.
Advisor Dr. Diana Leon-Boys
Dr. Leon-Boys is a leading scholar of Latina girlhood and an expert in Latina girls’ media studies.
Advisor Dr. Sarah Sharp
Dr. Sharp is a marine veterinarian who leads a dolphin rescue and rehabilitation program.
Raquel Reyes™
Explore meaningful links between Samantha Parkington™ and our newest Girl of the Year™
Raquel’s™ Accessories
Includes a diary from Samantha, two of Samantha's photos, and a necklace that matches Samantha's brooch locket.
Raquel's™ Piney Point Pickleball Outfit
The “Piney Point” graphic on Raquel’s shirt is a nod to the summer house Samantha loved to visit in upstate New York.
Raquel's™ Pickleball Bag & Paddle Set
Another tie back to Piney Point, the vacation home in the Adirondacks that belonged to Samantha’s grandmother.
Raquel's™ Vintage Vanity
The trinket box found in the vintage vanity is just like the one Samantha owned.
Raquel Reyes™
Explore meaningful links between Samantha Parkington™ and our newest Girl of the Year™
Raquel’s™ Accessories
Includes a diary from Samantha, two of Samantha's photos, and a necklace that matches Samantha's brooch locket.
Raquel's™ Piney Point Pickleball Outfit
The “Piney Point” graphic on Raquel’s shirt is a nod to the summer house Samantha loved to visit in upstate New York.
Raquel's™ Pickleball Bag & Paddle Set
Another tie back to Piney Point, the vacation home in the Adirondacks that belonged to Samantha’s grandmother.
Raquel's™ Vintage Vanity
The trinket box found in the vintage vanity is just like the one Samantha owned.
2026 Girl of the Year 
Raquel Reyes 2026 Girl of the Year Raquel Reyes 2026 Girl of the Year 
Girl of the Year™ gallery
Explore more inspiration for girls today
Girl of Year 2026: Raquel Reyes™
Introducing our 2026 Girl of the Year™, Raquel Reyes™! Discover her inspiring story, unique products, and the meaningful connections that make Raquel a must-have for collectors and fans everywhere.
Who is Raquel Reyes?
Raquel Reyes™, the 2026 Girl of the Year® doll from American Girl, is an adventurous, music-loving ten-year-old from Kansas City, Missouri. Raquel is both creative and courageous, with dreams of DJing at her family’s paleta shop, “Paleta-Palooza.” An exciting summer journey leads her to the East Coast for her cousin’s wedding, family reunions, and a heartfelt quest to reconnect with her cousin Sloan. Along the way, Raquel embraces her family heritage and the importance of animal rescue, and uncovers her great-great-grandmother Samantha Parkington’s™ diary, connecting past and present in a powerful tale about family ties and taking pride in who you are.
What makes Raquel the Girl of the Year®?
The 2026 Girl of the Year® Raquel Reyes™ stands out for her vibrant blend of family traditions, creativity, and resilience. As a talented DJ and proud animal advocate, Raquel embodies values that matter today: blending cultures, caring for animals, and supporting family in every form. Her story celebrates embracing one’s hertitage and honors female role models from the past, including her inspirational connection to Samantha Parkington™—a passionate voice for women’s rights in the early 1900s. Learn more about Raquel’s journey in her book The Diary of Raquel Reyes™ and discover her full character story here, in our online American Girl® Encyclopedia.
What products are available for Raquel Reyes™?
The American Girl® Raquel Reyes™ collection features a stunning 18-inch doll with brown eyes and dark-brown hair styled in a ponytail, inspired by Samantha Parkington’s timeless look. The Raquel Reyes™ 18-inch Doll & Journal includes a meet outfit with gingham prints and bows, matching platform shoes, a golden bracelet, and a bow hair tie. An illustrated paperback book, The Diary of Raquel Reyes™, is included. The available Raquel Reyes™ collection also includes:
• Raquel’s™ Accessories Set: Tote bag, sunglasses, necklace, cell phone, plus Samantha’s diary and family memorabilia
• Raquel’s™ doll outfits: Beach Party Dress, Beach Outfit, Coastal Stripes Pajamas, and more (sold separately)
• Matching outfits for girls & dolls: Gingham Ruffle Outfit and Coastal Stripes Pajamas (sold separately)
• Raquel’s™ Dog, Luzita™: Plush dog with accessories
• Raquel’s™ Dolphin Duo: Mother and baby plush dolphins inspired by Raquel’s animal rescue adventure
• Piney Point Pickleball Outfit & Bag Set: Cute court-ready attire with play accessories
• Vintage Vanity Playset: 12-piece playset inspired by Samantha Parkington’s historic collection
• Seaside Car, Beach Chairs & Barbecue Set, and Summertime Treats Set: Complete Raquel’s™ East Coast adventures with beach and party accessories!
Explore the complete 2026 Girl of the Year™ Raquel Reyes™ collection online at americangirl.com and at American Girl stores.
When is the 2026 Girl of the Year™ doll being released?
Raquel Reyes™, our 2026 Girl of the Year™ character, debuts September 17, 2025, just in time for the holiday gift season. Mark your calendar and be ready to welcome her home!
What age group is Raquel Reyes™ recommended for?
The Raquel Reyes™ doll and the entire 2026 Girl of the Year™ collection of accessories are designed for ages 6 and up. She makes a wonderful gift for doll collectors, young readers, and anyone inspired by stories of family, friendship, and adventure.
Where can I buy Raquel Reyes™?
The full collection is available at americangirl.com and at American Girl retail stores nationwide.
What makes Raquel Reyes™ unique compared to other Girl of the Year™ characters?
Raquel’s family heritage, passion for DJing, and all her exciting accessories from paletas to a vintage-inspired convertible, plus her strong link to historical figure Samantha Parkington™ set her apart. Her premium doll, story-driven outfits, and adorable accessories blend modern style with cherished traditions, creating a unique, must-have addition for fans.
What is included with the 2026 Girl of the Year™ doll?
The Raquel Reyes™ 18-inch Doll & Journal set includes our 2026 Girl of the Year™ doll in her gingham ruffle outfit, matching accessories, a golden bow cuff bracelet, platform shoes, and The Diary of Raquel Reyes™ book.
Does the 2026 Girl of the Year™ doll come with a book?
Yes! The Raquel Reyes™ doll set includes the illustrated paperback, The Diary of Raquel Reyes™—ideal for encouraging reading and inspiring imagination.
What is Raquel’s connection to Samantha Parkington™?
Samantha Parkington™ is Raquel Reyes’s great-great-grandmother. Raquel finds Samantha’s 1906 diary in her family’s historic mansion, discovering entries about fairness, women’s suffrage, and the power of standing up for what’s right. Samantha’s story and heirlooms inspire Raquel—and connect today’s generation with the courageous women of history.
Find out more about Raquel Reyes™, shop her full collection, and celebrate the power of family with the 2026 Girl of the Year™ doll only at American Girl.
