I am sad why are they not posting about American girl anymore They could do girls of the year or something like that but not this this is making me sad

This is the most specific podcast yet it’s sooo me. I grew up loving the American Girl books and movies and now am studying history in college. I wrote my college essay on the Molly books! My mouth dropped in episode 6 “changes for Felicity” when you mentioned historian Alan Taylor. He’s my major advisor and professor! He taught an absolutely incredible class on the American Revolution. This podcast is everything. I love the sarcasm and the use of the same tone for talking about serious subjects like sexism and pop culture moments like the Bachelor. What a find. Are y’all hiring???

While this podcast isn’t perfect, the number of listeners who seem to confuse characters with real children is alarming. Criticizing a character is criticizing the writing and the author’s craft. The people saying Mary and Allison are criticizing children need to step all the way back and remember… they are not. The characters… are not… real people. Also… Why would a pop culture podcast by two adults (who are not literary critics) have to read these from the perceptive of a child? That said, the idea of bringing on a professional in children’s literature would be really fun!

I wish the hosts would cut out the long intros about unrelated topics. I choose not to watch The Bachelor, so why would I want to spend 20 minutes listening to an intro about it on an American Girl podcast? I was really looking forward to a critique of the historical accuracy of these books but after 3 episodes I’m walking away. The hosts also clearly don’t respect the books; they spend the Josefina series making up a glib murder plot line. There are moments where they even make fun of Latinx culture because they haven’t previously been exposed to certain traditions. The premise of this podcast is great and has lots of potential but the execution is not for me.

I really wanted to like this podcast, I was so excited to stumble onto it as I had just began rereading the American Girl books, but it’s beyond awful. The concept is so good on paper. Two historians talking about the American Girl books and the historical context around them, what’s not to like? Unfortunately this premise hardly features in the podcast. The two hosts spend more time wandering down unrelated tangents about trashy reality TV, pop culture and astrology than they do talking about the American Girls and history. I listened to the Felicity book episodes and one Samantha episode, as I was both hoping it would get better and didn’t want to condemn it without giving it a fair shot. I gave it more than a fair shot and I will say even listening to it at 2.5 speed, this podcast is a slog. What time they actually did spend talking about the books was filled with the hosts demonizing nine-year-old girls for acting like children and making the most bad faith interpretations of each character and action in the series. Except for Annabelle who they inexplicably adore and ignore all of her less than favorable actions. For example they make no comment on Annabelle calling Elizabeth “Bitsy,” a name that Elizabeth has said she doesn’t like and doesn’t want Annabelle to use, yet treat Felicity like she’s an awful person for calling Annabelle “Bananabelle.” They also act as if Felicity is the aggressor in their interactions, glossing over the snide and classist comments Annabelle has been making since their first meeting. I was especially bothered by the hosts theorizing in the Felicity’s Surprise episode that Mrs. Merriman’s life-threatening illness was just a ploy by her to get out of housework. Women’s health has historically been dismissed and women still face medical discrimination today. This take feels incredibly inappropriate and misogynistic and again the most bad faith take on a character. I am also not entirely convinced that they are doing more than just skimming the books or reading a few paragraphs here and there in preparation for episodes as they will make comments or ascribe character motives that are refuted in the text and gloss over large portions of the stories. I am not sure if other episodes contain more history, but the ones I listened to had only brief discussions of slavery and Ben’s social status as an apprentice, though they were interspersed with frequent insults hurled at the protagonist, her family and her friends. They talk about how Felicity’s books not giving enough attention and weight to black characters would be upsetting for young black readers which is an entirely valid point, and yet are weirdly pro Queen of England seemingly glossing over the fact she was in that position as a direct result of the centuries-long horrors of British imperialism that also still affects people today. I don’t doubt that the hosts are historians, but it seems disingenuous to advertise your podcast as being hosted by historians and then spend more time talking about reality TV than history relevant to the episode’s subject. The hosts also don’t give any acknowledgement to the fact that the books were written about and for young children and how this can affect what subjects are covered and how they are handled (e.g. Felicity’s tooth is very important to her as a nine-year-old and is given the same weight as the tea storyline because it helps connect the young readers to her character through shared experience and also when you’re nine, losing a tooth is a big deal). The books certainly have their flaws and show signs of their age. They are not perfect, but they do show the lives of young girls as they go about their daily lives, make new friends, learn about the world around them and yes, make mistakes but also learn and grow from those mistakes. They are early reader books that have for years continued to spark an interest in history and make history accessible for hundreds of little girls. To ignore the intent of the books only makes the hosts of this podcast look foolish. I was also bothered by the hosts laughingly recounting how prior to the podcast they had shamed another American Girl fan for “misremembering” the Felicity books when they were the ones at the time incorrectly insisting that John Adams was a central character and the books took place in Boston. Overall this podcast is incredibly mean-spirited and a huge disappointment. If I could give it less than one star, I would. It seems as if the hosts would be better suited to making reality TV/pop culture podcast than a literary/history podcast as they seem to hardly cover or have any interest in the topics the episodes are allegedly about. I’m not sure who the target audience is as it is certainly not fans of the American Girls or their books. I guess it’s only for Molly fans as she seems to be the only girl they actually like.

I learn so much plus it’s just fun nostalgia. It’s nice and long too for those jogs and car commutes.

Love listening to this podcast because each episode brings both nostalgia and history 😄

I want Mary & Allison to be my friends. They make me want to go to grad school and become a historian. As someone who was a non-doll, pro-book AG fan, I am immensely grateful for a podcast that not only goes reviews the books but does so with the guidance of intelligent, insightful, fun hosts. The Peek into the Pantry episode has a permanent spot on my phone so I can comfort-listen to it as I fall asleep.

I love American Girl Dolls (I'm a Felicity. Don't judge.) and I didn't know I was waiting for this podcast but I was. I love the insight Mary and Allison bring from their education and experience as historians. One of my favorite things is scribbling down the name of an author to look up later while enjoying an astute comparison between historical events and some current pop culture drama.

So good. I’m a Kit. Not a Molly. But I have head-canoned Kit as a transgender boy. I love this podcast so much.

As a 30-something mom with three boys and one daughter, who is now re-reading through the AG books with her own daughter, I’m loving this podcast. Central to this podcast is the question: what does it mean to be an American Girl? Laced with pop culture references & graduate level research, this podcast is everything grown up readers of the American Girl book series hoped a podcast like this would be.

Worst part of this show is that I was binging all the old episodes and now I have to wait two weeks between episodes 😢 but seriously this show is my favorite thing ever

I really enjoy the nostalgia of this AG podcast, and the hosts definitely know their history. As a teacher with a focus on children’s lit, I think it would benefit from checking in with a Children’s literature expert. These books are written in a child’s perspective for children (not teenagers, or even tweens), so they are going to seem random or unpolished to us. For example, Felicity’s loose tooth getting so much attention in the book seems boring to adults, but is a way for modern children to relate to this character in a way they understand. And while the books were written in the 90s, children’s literature of that decade was still very color blind (not saying that’s okay, but it’s just how it is). These kinds of perspectives would help the hosts and listeners understand how children’s books are written.

Wait... why is the American Girl podcast a socialist podcast...? Ugh Update: My comment was not in response to a discussion about white savior complexes. I agree with that. In fact, at times I have had that exact thought as a listener 😳 I believe my review was in response to a particular redistribution of wealth plan comment made in that or another neighboring episode. I found it to be somewhat over-the-top. But everyone has their right to an opinion. I do love the nostalgia and I appreciate your friendship dynamic. I think you are both very smart and witty. Just my opinion!

Listening to y’all daily is getting me through grad school and a breakup. Thank you!!! ❤️

I love the intersection of the AG world with current events, history, and pop culture. There should be a way to give more stars.

Mary and Allison have mastered the art of balancing humor and thoughtfulness/scholarly critique while talking about our beloved American Girl dolls—I learn something and laugh out loud each episode. Highly recommend!

American Girl was a significant part of my childhood. Listening to Mary and Allison transports me to reading each of the books for the first time, along with excellent historical context and more - thanks to the two hosts’ expertise. I’ve enjoyed every episode so much. This podcast has reminded me how much these wonderful stories have helped me become who I am today.

I love this podcast! Allison and Mary feel like my own friends who love history, pop culture, and the fun, sometimes problematic, but ultimately beloved American Girl series. I say this as a total Kirsten. ❤️❤️❤️

This podcast has completely improved my life. Allison & Mary are wicked smart, hilarious, and timely. Wouldn’t know what to do without this content!

Mary and Allison have created a fantastic community surrounding these dolls and their stories. I’m so happy I found this podcast! I didn’t know how much I needed this in my life! Thank you!

Hands down my favorite podcast. You may develop a slight New England accent from bingeing this but it’s ok because it coordinates nicely with being a closet Felicity. Five stars.

This podcast is such a joy, recommended to me by one of my besties, it makes me laugh every time, sometimes I cry, it’s always beautiful and so fun. The world is crazy now, but listening to this pod is one of the things that brings me back to myself. If you loved/love AG this is a must listen!!

Love waking through memory lane with these episodes. Allison and Mary never fail to make me laugh or smile!

Literally the best podcast in the world. Cool blend of genuine history with the American Girl stories we grew up with. Truly defines a generation — thank you for what you do! I have learned so much from you and the guests on this show. Also have added a lot of house museums to my to-visit list. Amazing. Also can you add a Q&A segment? That would be fun.

I am so grateful for the day this podcast came into my life! This podcast is everything — childhood nostalgia with a good chunk of critical thinking, great commentary on public history, and the best pop culture references. The first podcast I ever supported on Patreon because I want as much of this pod as I can have! And also because Allison and Mary are the best. Thank you for bringing this pod into the world!!!!!

I loved American Girl, I love history, and this podcast seemed like a fun idea. However, I stopped listening in the 1st Josefina book because I just couldn’t take the amount of sidetracking about irrelevant topics. Usually I don’t mind sidetracked conversations in podcasts because it helps the convo feel natural and adds some humor. However, these turn into full conversations about topics I admittedly don’t care about (The Bachelor and astrology especially). They go on for several minutes, even half of the episode in some cases (Felicity Movie ep), and it just became grating. Honestly if someone can comment a point in the series where the off topic convos taper down I would be willing to try again. The premise is fun and the hosts are very adept in their history fields, but maybe I was just expecting a different kind of podcast.

A friend of mine recommended this podcast to me. I wish I had found it sooner! I’m a Molly and this podcast brings me back to my childhood.

My sister told me about this podcast a few months ago and it is literally the only one I have listened to since. I feel like Mary and Allison are my new best friends and I want to say thank you to you both for bringing this perspective to the world and AG back into my life! It is so refreshing to hear your genuine friendship come through on the podcast, along with your honest and critical look at these beloved books. I’m a Kirsten, and I feel like I understand myself a little bit better after listening to the Kirsten episodes.

My word. I came across this podcast about a month ago, and the joy (and serious nostalgia) it has brought me … I am still “catching up” - currently in the middle of Addy. I love how Allison and Mary weave pop culture through their episodes while also giving well-intentioned 90s writing a critical read. I’m also pretty sure that Mary and I should be bosom friends; she is certainly a kindred spirit (Megan Follows forever!). I was gifted Happy Birthday Molly for my 8th or 9th birthday. I then started that series at the beginning, and picked up with Kirsten and Samantha. I remember waiting for the Felicity books to come out. Addy was introduced as I was aging-out of the series, so I think I only read one or two of her books. As a result of listening, I’ve purchased the books I’ve read, and once I’ve re-read those I’ll buy the other two OG girls. My Samantha also has an appointment at the Doll Hospital now; sadly, her hair didn’t grow back after I cut it. Thank you, ladies, for this beautiful walk down memory lane with a 21st-century lens.

Allison and Mary of the American Girl Podcast are ASMR for the soul. They are expert historians, hilarious comedians, and your best friend. Thank you for the greatest of gifts - bringing back to life a fundamental role model in the lives of many Millennial to Gen Z folk. -🦋

I just found this podcast via a shout out on a Disney book podcast I listen to! I was so excited to find this, both of my parents worked for pleasant company when I was young so it’s been fun to relive some of those memories.

Get to the point y’all 🥲

Please make it shorter

A friend recommended this to me as we are roughly the same age as the hosts, and big into the American Girl dolls in childhood. It’s been one of the best parts of my workday - I genuinely laugh so often, and have so many sharp nostalgia moments. I end up feeling like I’m just listening to two (very funny) friends and it’s a wonderful distraction from the monotony that is data entry.

It’s amazing that this podcast can so seamlessly combine all of these topics and many more in just one thirty minute portion of a Kirsten episode. I can’t believe this podcast exists, and I’m in mid-thirties, AG fan, American history dork paradise listening to each episode.

This podcast is my favorite! They are both so smart and shed so much light on the historical times these books take place in. I also appreciate the hilarious pop culture references. Pure gold.

It’s history, and history of history, books, dolls, and Mary and Allison. It couldn’t get better.

I feel like they are talking more about other stuff than the summary and title promises. Unsubscribing now. But don’t get me wrong, I love AG. Have a great day everyone!!😉

I’m late to this witty fun! I’ve enjoyed the banter between Mary and Allison or “Molly to Molly” immensely! Even though I’m a “Samantha” it’s great fun!! Thanks!!

OK so I’ve been regressing hard throughout this time. There’s something about living in an extremely chaotic period that makes me want to curl up with things that remind me of my childhood and that feeling of safety and being cared for and having others tell you it will all be ok. After reading old books I used to like and indulging in long cancelled shows, this podcast has been the ultimate companion for nights when I’m feeling afraid and pull my blankets around me. It brought to light the magic of the books I was obsessed with as a child, and Allison and Mary’s brilliant analysis both makes cackle and pushes me to think more about the time periods of each series. I’m genuinely concerned for having to find something as warm and safe after this - if anyone has suggestions for podcasts that feature an amazing friendship as well as historical and literary analysis and Bachelor fantakes, I’m all ears.

These girls are point blank hilarious. I feel like I have added two friends to my crew. I am grateful I am late to this podcast because I have hours of content to listen too. I know I will be so sad when I am caught up and have to wait for new episodes. I love that Mary and Allison are able to relate American girls to current pop culture as well as historical references of the time frames the books were based written in the 90s.

I don't remember how I found this podcast, but I'm so glad I did! I grew up with the American Girls books and listening to the podcast is such a fun way to relive part of my childhood. My favorite part is how the discussions are serious but hilarious at the same time... the sarcasm and humor are amazing! I love the incorporation of Britney Spears, Dolly Parton, and other important topics :D

I love this podcast. I’m still in the Felicity episodes. A sister priest who is a professional historian who studied with you told me about it! I studied medieval women’s ecclesiastical history & gender studies in college and I’m sure Pleasant Company played a role in that. I do love the books - warts & all. (I started getting catalogs soon after Pleasant Company started. Almost 35 years later, I love playing with my own kids and Kirsten & Felicity, who also look good despite their age, thanks Doll Hospital!) My kids and I have listened to or read almost all of the historical books at this point and I love your appreciation for AND critique of the characters & books from the perspective of professional historians & Millennial nerds! Thank you! Thank you!

This podcast is just THE BEST. If you listen to it, then you automatically have good taste. Please keep making it forever!!!

I stumbled upon this podcast and I just can’t stop listening. Growing up on the American Girls, they were incredibly influential characters and stories in my life. Now as an adult, this podcast is fantastic to listen to, reliving those memories and nostalgia, but having the opportunity to analyze the importance of how these stories can impact young readers and make stronger connections to real life scenarios and historical references is thoroughly enjoyable. I love listening to the hosts and I feel like I’m right there with them reading along! Can’t wait for more!

So good! Such a thoughtful look at something that is so nostalgic for so many!

This is the hilarious nostalgia I need during this stressful time. Truly a highlight when a new podcast drops! Love thanks Allison & Mary!

Fellow historian and American Girl enthusiast here. I do enjoy this podcast for the nostalgia trip. Unfortunately, I find the irrelevant banter is distracting and unnecessary (astrology, The Bachelor recaps). The biggest overall flaw for me is the hypercritical, politically correct lens by which the hosts use to analyze books created for children; these were books written from a child's perspective. There are "darker" topics addressed in the texts, e.g. slavery, child labor, however, I think there is significance in what the author chose to highlight for their audience - obviously not all "darker" historical moments can be addressed in each text. Perhaps the hosts can discuss the author's choice to feature certain "dark" topics over others. The hosts also interpret LGBTQ+ plot lines that simply do not exist within the texts. Ultimately, I think the hosts' expectations of each character's "wokeness" level are too high and anachronistic.

I like the concept of this podcast and that it is hosted by trained historians. However I think that adults need to be mindful when reviewing books targeted toward children that children do not think with the same level of criticism and complexity that adults do. The hosts state that it had been decades since they read these books and so they’re going to form different opinions than someone who has read them more at intervals and more recently. I would prefer the topics to be viewed more with the lens of the times the stories were set and when they were written, with less of a focus on the 21st century social justice framework.