American Girl introduced the newest doll in their BeForever series this week, a 30th anniversary edition that aims to educate young girls about the Civil Rights Movement in American history.
Melody Ellison is a 9-year-old girl who loves singing and lives in the 1960s in Detroit, at a time of great importance for the African American community.
According to the American Girl website, Melody's story brings together Motown music and civil rights history. Her release this week comes at the closing of Black History Month and as popular toy company celebrates its 30th anniversary.
The new doll won't be in stores until late summer, but Melody's book "No Ordinary Sound" is already available for purchase. Accessories include a bed and a recording studio.
"We do approach every character very thoughtfully so this isn't something we rush into. We're not looking to address critical demand -- we're looking to tell stories in the most authentic and genuine way that we possibly can," American Girls's Vice President of Marketing Julia Proshaka told CBS News.
Melody is the third Black doll in American Girl's BeForever line. The line features dolls set in different time periods in U.S. history and explores the challenges and opportunities each face.
So far the social media reaction has been positive.
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