Meet Gwen

Meet Gwen Thompson, American Girl's newest

addition to its doll family. Credit: American Girl

American Girl released an addition to its collection of sociologically accurate dolls this year -- and she's homeless.The Wisconsin-based company, whose Web site declares that it celebrates girls and all they can be, is well-known for its tasteful, well-researched dolls reflecting certain periods in American history.

Now, Gwen Thompson joins the company's line.Gwen's story is told through another doll's biography, which, according to The New York Post, is decidedly modern: Her father ran out on the family and her mother lost her job. By winter, the fatherless family is living in their car. The doll sells for $95 and is available online or at American Girl retail locations.