Girl of the Year 2025: Summer McKinny

The doll wears a rainbow dress, pink-and-purple ombre glasses, two beaded bracelets, and colorful sandals with platform soles. Summer joins the brand’s line of contemporary characters that “represent a wide range of backgrounds and interests to reflect what it means to be an American girl today,” said the company in a release. Growing up in Columbia, Md., 10-year-old Summer is a dog lover and baker who turns her two passions into a business of her own.

American Girl fans are in for a sweet surprise with the early arrival of the 2025 Girl of the Year Summer McKinny. Growing up with her family in Columbia, MD, 10-year old Summer is a dog lover and baker who turns her two passion projects into a budding business. Kids of all ages are sure to love Summer, her animal friends, baked treats and her entrepreneurial spirit, too.

They bring a sense of timelessness while still resonating in contemporary settings. Sports figures are a perennial favorite (the year Derek Jeter retired from the New York Yankees, “Jeter” was in the top 10 male dog names), so it’s not surprising to see “Kobe” on the list. Outdoor activity-inspired names like “Moose” or “Harley” are another popular theme. You might meet a “Whiskey,” “Mochi,” or “Oreo” on your daily walks. And at least 20 percent of dogs have traditionally human names like “Max,” “Cooper,” or “Charlie,” which figure high in our list.

In addition to the most popular names, the SSA also identified the “fastest-rising” names. These names are used very rarely, but they’ve been shooting up the charts. Choosing the perfect name for your baby is an exciting yet challenging task for any parent. In a world where individuality and uniqueness are cherished, and just like the names below, many parents are seeking names that stand out from the crowd. Helen is Deputy Editor of MadeForMums, the author of Parenting for Dummies (Wiley, £17.99).

{|}

No refunds or adjustments on previous purchases or orders in progress that have not yet shipped. Offer is subject to change at the discretion of American Girl®. Our pet-loving, treat-baking American Girl® Girl of Year™ 2025 Summer McKinny™ brightens every day with adventures your girl will love! Summer’s™ world comes to life with an 18-inch large doll as well as doll accessories, playsets, and clothing for girls and dolls. Plus, furry four-legged friends add to the fun, especially Summer’s always playful, sometimes problem-making pets—Crescent™ and Fettuccine™.