No comments about Nippon Dolls & Playthings: Identification and Values.

2 comments about On Display: Displaying Your Treasures With Style.

1. I found 'On Display' in the local library and was delighted with it. The text is actually relevant to the photos and enlarges on the ideas illustrated without getting technical or arty crafty. In fact, even on its own, the text of the book inspires creativity.
   
   I am surprised that the previous reviewer was so disappointed. Perhaps a better book for her would be one on storage such as 'Organised Living' by Dawna Walter.
   
   The strength of this book was its ability to inspire me to develop my own ideas; such as using a floral cushion on a plain white sofa to inspire a large but simple abstract on the wall using one of the motifs. Then there's the old, pewter bucket holding large dried leaves, arranged as if pages in a book that prompted me to create a similar display with huge leathery leaves and an antique leather container. Surely success is when the reader says, "I could do that!"
   
   The book shows unusual and artistic ways of displaying your personal treasures and making them a charming and sometimes whimsical part of your decor. Even if you are into minimalism, a single possession can make a bold statement against stark white. The reader is helped to see the possibilities in anything: plates, bowls, books, bags, shoes, scarves, jewellery, collectables mixed with modern - even in one place, a display of old pick handles and heads is turned into a fascinating sculpture on a plain wall - right next to the pure lines of a modern chair. This display suited the muted, Spanish-style interior - not a syle eveyone would want, but it showed how it is possible develop a theme - and even mix styles with flair.
   
   I have ordered my own copy of Lesley Dilcock's 'On display' as there is still so much more to explore. It will take me a while to finish with this book.



2. I really looked forward to buying this book, because I was looking for an interesting, but uncluttered, way of displaying my pottery, vintage jewelry, etc. Unfortunately, though some of the illustrations are interesting, very few of them are truly creative. Most of the ideas I could have come up with on my own. And I was hoping that there would be some kind of "how to" aspect to the book as well, so that if I did see something I liked (i.e. shelves), there might be instructions as to how to create them. Unfortunately, there were not.

   Though I'll hang onto this book for occassional inspiration, it wasn't nearly as wonderful as I hoped.

2 comments about I Had that Doll.

1. Very informative, great pictures and chronological order is very helpful! Lots of pictures for identification!



2. If you love dolls, you will love this book. It is stuffed full of so many adorable dolls! Nearly every page has a terrific photograph of a doll that you will fall in love with. Or maybe already did fall in love with! I highly recommend this book for doll lovers everywhere. I HAD THAT DOLL! is a book to keep forever!

No comments about First Collections: Dolls and Folk Toys of the World.

1 comments about Post-War Tin Toys: A Collector's Guide.

1. If you're a toy collector (and if you're not, why are you reading this???) you will really enjoy leafing through this book. It isn't all inclusive, by any means, but it gives a very nice overview of the subject and is LOADED with large color photographs. Even my wife liked looking at them -- and that's saying something! There are several tables and a list of manufacturers in the back and an index. Well worth a few bucks.

1 comments about How to be a Doll Detective.

1. For some reason I did not like this book.. There was the odd reference I found informative. The author is great and has produced wonderful reference books... Maybe I am odd or at a different level, and maybe others would find this book helpful, but this is a book I would not keep in my reference library..... thank you..

1 comments about Treasury of Barbie Doll Accessories: 1961-1995.

1. Upon opening this guide, Rupp demonstrates immediately why it is so essential to have this book in your library. From the Table of Contents page, all the way through to the Epilogue, Rupp presents the reader with 412 of the clearest, most colorful photos of Barbie doll accessories made from 1961-1995. With each picture, a caption is provided desribing these treasures with dates they were copyrighted, and other interesting tidbits that some of us have forgotten (i.e. Sear's exclusive, working escalators, even product I.D. numbers). Cases, houses, paper dolls, and colognes are covered. There's enough here to provide any child or fan of the 70's and 80's with lots of opportunities to reminisce and learn. Rupp has done a fantastic job. One look through this book will have you exclaiming, "Wow! I had that!" An excellent source of entertainment and education.

No comments about Yesterday's Toys 1: Celluloids (Yesterday's Toys).

No comments about Yesterday's Toys 2: Planes (Yesterday's Toys).

4 comments about Collectible African American Dolls (Identification & Values (Collector Books)).

1. There is a small selection of vintage dolls at the beginning of the book, but most of the dolls are mass produced, porcelain "collectible" type dolls, circa 1990s, and manufactured play dolls. Cabbage Patch lovers will thoroughly enjoy the CPK section.
   
   The book's format, color images, and descriptions are nice, vibrant, and detailed, respectively.
   
   Some of the values are high, and, as indicated by the author, should only be used as a guide, particularly in today's market.
   
   The book does not contain "photograph courtesy of" captions; therefore, it is safe to conclude that Ms. Ellis has done a nice job documenting dolls from her personal collection.
   
   
   http://blackdollcollecting.com



2. This is a lovely book with good information. I was hoping for more about '50's vintage dolls, like Ginny and Tiny Tears (since that's what I collect), but if you are interested in collecting all kinds of dolls, this is a good resource book for your library.



3. Wow! This book is truly a one of a kind. It is detailed and classy. I cannot put it down. The bright colors, lure the reader into magical moments exemplifying the rich culture and status of the African American Doll throughout time. Ms. Ellis, your insight is to be commended. I am certain that you will bring joy not only to avid collectors, but to many young boys and girls as well...anxiously awaiting the next edition!!!



4. THIS BOOK IS FANTASTIC! I REALLY APPRECIATE THE VALUES MS. ELLIS HAS GIVEN TO THESE WONDERFUL AFRICAN AMERICAN DOLLS. MY ONLY GRIPE IS THAT IT IS A LITTLE SHORT FOR EACH MANUFACTURER, AND DEFINITELY SOME COMPANIES MISSING. BUT OVERALL, THE GLOSSY COLOR PAGES, RELAXED WRITING AND FAIR VALUE AMOUNTS MORE THAN MAKES UP FOR IT! THANK YOU MS. ELLIS!