I think reading each of the historical series makes a huge difference when deciding on a doll. I know that I have recommended this to several board members who are torn between doll and so have others. Something that I just thought of adding to the posts concerning this is that these books are usually available at your public library. My daughter has read all of the historical series and we did not buy all of these. In fact, most of the books we own were bought after she decided on the doll - which was after she read that particular doll's series of books.

Anyway - don't forget your local library!!!