Jess Akiko McConnell American Girl Doll of the Year

Jess McConnell is a curious and adventurous 10-year-old girl who's full of energy. She can't wait to explore Belize with her parents! They come from different backgrounds - her dad's Irish American and her mom's Japanese American - but they both love archeology. With her first step off the airplane and into bright tropical sunlight, Jess McConnell begins an adventure. She and her parents are spending five months at an archeological dig of ancient Maya ruins in the Central American country of Belize. It's Jess's first time out of the United States. It's her first time being home-schooled. And it's her first trip without her older brother and sister to keep her company. But Jess is excited to explore a new place all on her own. She's ready for adventure and anxious to discover just who Jess is.