When I first unboxed Meadow, the 18-inch reborn doll, I was struck by how much she resembled a real newborn. Her hand-painted hair and delicate eyelashes made me do a double-take. At 2.86 pounds, she has just the right weight to feel like you're holding an actual baby.

What surprised me most was how my niece (who's 4) immediately bonded with her. She's been dressing Meadow in preemie clothes (though they're a bit snug) and carries her everywhere on her hip - the doll's slightly bent legs actually make this position perfect.

The included accessories - especially the magnetic pacifier that actually stays put - add to the realism. While some painted details could be more subtle (my niece initially thought the arm creases were cuts), overall it's impressively lifelike for the price point.

As an aunt who's handled many dolls, I appreciate that she's soft-bodied yet durable enough for toddler play. The gift packaging makes it presentation-ready, though I'd suggest checking all accessories are included as some reviewers mentioned missing items.

For parents wanting something realistic but not too uncanny-valley for young kids, this hits the sweet spot between playability and artistry.