Barbie, the iconic fashion doll, is turning 65 years old this year! To commemorate this milestone, two new books have recently been released that delve into the world of pink and provide some fascinating insights into her history, influence, and collector appeal.
Barbie: Her Inspiration, History, and Legacy
The first book, titled “Barbie: Her Inspiration, History, and Legacy,” offers a comprehensive overview of the life and legacy of our favorite doll. From her humble beginnings as a Mattel toy in 1959 to her diverse range of career aspirations and evolving fashion sense, this book explores the profound impact she has had on popular culture and society. Even the movie from 2023 is mentioned in the book and got its own chapter. My experience with the movie can be read here Barbie – the movie and tickets for a pre-premiere and here Barbie: A Journey From Perfect World to Real Emotions.
Having not read it yet it seems that this book is an updated version of the Barbie Forever – Her inspiration, history and legacy. So if you have the Forever version I’m not sure if this book is really interesting for you but I will check and read and let you know.
Barbie by Robin Gerber
Barbie Forever by Robin Gerber from 2019
The History Of Barbie Doll Collecting And Other Barbie Intrigue
The second book, “The History Of Barbie Doll Collecting And Other Barbie Intrigue,” dives into the world of Barbie collectibles. From rare vintage dolls to limited editions and designer collaborations, this book provides a fascinating glimpse into the fascinating world of fashion doll collectors. It also delves into the various controversies and controversies surrounding this cult doll, including body image and feminism. For a better overview you can see my latest video where I tell you more about my thoughts about this book.
The Evolution of Barbie
Both books shed light on the evolution of our she-ro, from her early days as a stylish teenage doll to the diverse range of characters she has become today. From princesses to veterinarians, our favorite doll has captivated the imaginations of children and adult collectors alike.
Impact on Society
Beyond her fashion sense and collector appeal, she has also had a significant impact on society. Both books explore her role in promoting diversity and inclusivity, as well as her influence on girls’ self-esteem and aspirations.
Doll Couture: Creating Custom Clothes Featuring the Story of Lola
Recently, a new book was released that, while not directly about the iconic fashion doll with six letters, focuses on the design of vintage fashion doll clothes for 11 1/2 inch dolls. This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in sewing and creating their own doll clothes. It fits thematically with fashion doll enthusiasts and is a fantastic addition to your collection if you love crafting and learning new techniques for doll clothing design. Don’t miss out on this excellent guide to vintage doll fashion! If you want to see a short review, you are welcome to check out this video
The History of Barbie Doll Collecting and other Barbie Intrigue
A third book, maybe not in the most conventional style written was published by Bob Young several months ago. This book is very interesting since you learn a lot about the women who started the whole hobby of Barbie collecting. It’s a very thick book with a lot of photos. I’ve started to read the book but I have not completely finished it yet. It’s a very thick book and my goal is to read at least 3 pages every day.
What I liked about this book is that you got an insight about the many names of the women who started the magazines, the early newsletters and Barbie conventions in the USA. For me as a European it’s very expensive to fly and take part in any convention overseas but the book gives you the chance to get to know the important people. One thing I can say even if I have not finished it yet, it’s very entertaining and I have to read only 250 pages from 350 pages to finish it but really appreciate it.
The History of Barbie Doll Collecting by Bob Young
Conclusion
As our favorite doll celebrates her 65th birthday this year, these two new books offer a fascinating glimpse into the history, influence, and collector appeal of the iconic fashion doll. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or simply curious about the cultural phenomenon that this doll is , these books provide an entertaining and informative read.
Introduction of the evolution of Barbie and her family:
In the world of dolls, Barbie has undeniably left an indelible mark. Since her creation in 1959, Barbie has captivated the hearts of countless children and collectors alike. However, Barbie’s journey was not a solitary one. Throughout the 1960s, Barbie’s family grew, introducing a diverse cast of characters that added depth to her imaginative world. Let’s take a look back at the evolution of Barbie’s family during this iconic era and have a look at the evolution of Barbie and her family with a nostalgic journey back to the 1960s.
1959: Barbie, the Trailblazing Fashionista
Barbie made her debut in 1959, breaking the mold with her stylish fashion choices and glamorous lifestyle. Created by Ruth Handler, co-founder of Mattel, Barbie was named after Handler’s daughter, Barbara. With her chic attire and sophisticated demeanor, Barbie quickly became a role model for young girls everywhere.
First Barbie from 1959
1961: Ken, Barbie’s Dashing Companion
Two years after Barbie’s introduction, Ken stepped into the spotlight. Named after Handler’s son, Kenneth, Ken became Barbie’s dashing companion. With his charm and impeccable fashion sense, Ken perfectly complemented Barbie’s elegance. Together, they embarked on countless adventures, capturing the imagination of children across the globe. I wrote an article about the early Kens last year which you can read here https://barbie.final-memory.org/ken-ken-or-ken
Barbie and Ken in 1961, the first evolution of Barbie and her family
1963: Midge, Barbie’s Best Friend
In 1963, Barbie welcomed her best friend, Midge, into her ever-growing circle. Midge was known for her vibrant personality and her infectious laughter. With her cheerful demeanor, Midge added an element of fun and camaraderie to Barbie’s world. The bond between Barbie and Midge showcased the importance of friendship and support.
Barbie got a best female friend, another evolution of Barbie and her family
1964: Skipper, Barbie’s Adorable Sister and Ken’s best friend Alan
The following year, Barbie’s family expanded further with the arrival of Skipper and Ken’s best friend Alan, who is also regarded as the boyfriend of Midge. As Barbie’s younger sister, Skipper brought a youthful energy to the mix. With her playful spirit and trendy outfits, Skipper became a beloved character among young Barbie enthusiasts. Together, Barbie and Skipper embarked on countless sisterly adventures, fostering the importance of sibling bonds.
Like Barbie, Skipper and Midge go out to the city, Alan and Ken also spend their free time together going hunting or for a Saturday night dance. Alan has the same size like Ken. They are designed to share their clothes. Alan is also the secret hero of Barbie – the movie, the one with his striped beach shirt that probably nobody outside the Barbie community can identify without problems. Alan is easy to identify by his red hair. After being introduced in 1963 he disappears in 1967 and re-appears in 1990 to marry Midge after a friendship of almost 30 years. Isn’t that incredible?
1965: Francie, Barbie’s Fashion-Forward Cousin
Barbie’s cousin, Francie, made her debut in 1965. Known for her impeccable fashion taste and avant-garde style, Francie pushed the boundaries of fashion and became an inspiration for young trendsetters. Her presence in Barbie’s world highlighted the importance of individuality and self-expression.
1966: Tutti, Barbie’s Cherished Baby Sister and her twin brother Todd
Barbie’s family was completed in 1966 with the arrival of Tutti and Todd, Barbie’s adorable baby sister and baby brother twins. With their innocent charm and tiny stature, Tutti and Todd captured the hearts of both children and adults alike. Tutti’s and Todd’s inclusion in Barbie’s world emphasized the importance of family and the joy that younger siblings bring.
Conclusion:
Barbie’s journey through the 1960s was not just a personal one. It was a journey of growth, friendship, and familial love. As Barbie’s family expanded, so did the opportunities for imaginative play and storytelling. The evolution of Barbie and her family is not always easy to understand because a lot of member come and suddenly disappear again. For a deeper look at all friends I wrote an article many years ago Barbie doll wiki: What to know about Ken, Alan and the other male friends
Through the introduction of Ken, Midge, Skipper, Francie, and Tutti, Barbie’s world became more diverse and inclusive, reflecting the changing times of the 1960s. These iconic characters left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of children, ensuring that Barbie’s legacy would endure for generations to come. In the late 60s the first black friends of Barbie were available. They are maybe worth another blog post since some friends are new in the Barbie world while others disappear again without any trace. Let’s hope that the evolution of Barbie and her family will continue in the future.
It’s the passionate Barbie collector back again with a new topic for this week’s blog post. In my previous article, I explored the debut of the first Kelly/Shelly dolls from the mid-1990s. This week, I’m excited to continue where we left off and dive deeper into the fascinating world of these little dolls.
The Kelly/Shelly doll line captivates me in many ways. From their charming designs to their unique features, these dolls offer a special appeal that continues to intrigue collectors and fans alike. Join me as we explore more about these delightful figures and uncover what makes them so captivating.
I don’t have all sets with Shelly/Kelly
Let’s pick up where we left off in our last discussion. I previously introduced you to the “Travelin’ Sisters” set, a charming collection that caught my eye in Michael Augustyniak’s book. He noted it as a Toys”R” Us exclusive, though it’s unclear if it was only sold there, especially since we didn’t have Toys”R” Us stores around at that time.
Around the late 1990s, several delightful special Kelly/Shelly sets were released, and the “Travelin’ Sisters” set is a prime example. What makes this set particularly intriguing is its international variation. The Japanese version features Barbie with a Bob Mackie face, while the US version showcases a smiling Superstar face. This variation was quite common in the 1990s, and I suspect that some of my readers may not have encountered this difference before.
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Another incredibly charming set that I discovered is the “Birthday Fun Kelly” gift set. I received this delightful set as a Christmas present in 1996. The Kelly and Chelsie dolls were simply irresistible, and I was thrilled to have them, thanks to my aunt’s thoughtful gift.
Interestingly, this set was never officially listed as a Toys”R” Us exclusive, despite being available at their stores. I’ve never seen it anywhere else, which adds to its unique charm. It seems that finding the perfect Christmas gift for an 11-year-old girl today might be more challenging, as trends and preferences have evolved significantly since then.
This set remains a special memory for me, reflecting how certain toys can hold a unique place in our hearts long after they’ve been discontinued.
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Exclusive Barbie Sets: A Look at Target, Grocery, and Sears Releases
In 1998, Target offered an intriguing variant of the Power Wheels Tommy and Kelly gift set in blue, contrasting with the regular pink version. This blue set is exceptionally rare; I’ve only come across it in books, never in person. Finding a pink version in pristine, never-removed-from-box (NRFB) condition is also a challenge today. After many years of searching, I finally managed to acquire one in 2018. Although the set is quite heavy, I hesitate to debox it, as it remains a treasured part of my collection.
Special sets like these were often available at major retailers such as Toys”R” Us, Target, Wal-Mart, and grocery stores. These retailers frequently offered variants of regular sets, like the KB Tiny Steps Kelly in 2003 or the Love ‘n Care Kelly in 2002. Typically, these variants included fewer accessories and toys, which allowed them to be sold at a lower price point. This strategy likely aimed to boost sales by making the dolls more affordable while still appealing to collectors.
What about you? Have you encountered any rare or unique Barbie sets in your collecting journey?
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Pink Power Wheels Kelly and Tommy gift set from 1997. #1997barbie #barbie1997 #barbiekellydoll #powerwheelskelly #barbiesuperstar #superstarbarbie #busybfromgermany #barbiedoctor #barbiedoctora
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Special Kelly dolls for every season
Throughout the years, various retailers have offered exclusive Barbie sets that added unique charm to any collection. For instance, Target released the “Halloween Kelly” line in 2000, a festive set that captured the spirit of the season. Grocery stores featured the “Holiday Kelly” series, available for several years and reflecting seasonal cheer. Sears also contributed with the “Evening Recital” gift set, which included Barbie, Kelly, Tommy, and Stacie, showcasing a festive ensemble perfect for special occasions.
Rather than just listing what was available or what I don’t have, I’d love to share some of my favorite sets with you. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to find some truly special dolls. However, the journey of collecting is ongoing, and there are still several dolls on my wish list.
Isn’t it intriguing how the desire to find that perfect addition never really fades? The quest for rare and unique items often seems endless. Do you think this constant yearning for new pieces ever truly stops? Will our collections ever be complete, or is there always another treasure to seek?
I’m eager to hear your thoughts and experiences. Do you believe that the thrill of collecting and the pursuit of new finds ever comes to an end?
Showcasing My Favorite Barbie Sets: A Look at What I Have
I’d truly love to share some of the adorable Holiday Kelly and Friends sets with you, but unfortunately, I don’t have any at the moment. However, I do have a collection of other delightful sets that I’m excited to show off.
Though I may not have the Holiday Kelly sets, the ones I do possess are just as charming and provide a wonderful overview of the various themes and designs in my collection. From festive ensembles to unique editions, these sets reflect the diverse and intriguing world of Barbie.
Let’s take a closer look at the sets I have. They offer a glimpse into the different topics and styles covered throughout the years, showcasing the creativity and appeal of Barbie and her friends. I hope you’ll enjoy exploring these sets as much as I do!
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Tiny Steps Kelly, special version from KB, had less toys than the regular doll. #kellyclub #tinystepskelly #barbieshelly #shellyclub #kellyclub #barbiesuperstar #superstarbarbie #busybfromgermany
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The Quest for the Kelly Pretty Kitty Gift Set
One of the standout pieces in my collection is the Kelly Pretty Kitty gift set, which proved to be quite a challenge to find. After an extensive search that spanned several years, I was thrilled to finally add this elusive set to my collection.
Finding certain Barbie sets can sometimes take an extraordinary amount of time and effort. The Kelly Pretty Kitty set was no exception, as its rarity meant that locating one required persistence and patience. The journey to find such rare items is a testament to the dedication and passion of collectors.
If you’ve ever searched for a specific set or item, you know how rewarding it can be when you finally track it down. The hunt for these unique pieces is often as exciting as the collection itself, adding to the overall joy and satisfaction of being a Barbie enthusiast.
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A Hidden Gem: The Tommy and Kelly Soccer Set
One of the most charming additions to my collection is the Tommy and Kelly Soccer set. I was delighted to discover this adorable set last year, especially since I had never encountered it in Europe before.
The soccer set’s cuteness and unique appeal made it a standout find. It’s always exciting to come across a rare or previously unseen item, particularly when it adds a new dimension to your collection. The joy of finding such treasures is part of what makes collecting so rewarding.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, stumbling upon a special set like this one is always a thrilling experience. It’s moments like these that remind us of the endless possibilities in the world of Barbie collectibles.
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Tommy and Kelly soccer gift set from 1999. It’s a Target exclusive set. #kelly1999 #barbiekellydoll #barbiesisters #kellyclub #target? #barbie1999 #busybfromgermany #barbiedoctor #barbiedoctora
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Discovering the Shelly and Pony Set: A Spring 2019 Find
In the spring of 2019, I came across an adorable addition to my collection: the Shelly and Pony set. This charming set caught my eye and quickly became a favorite.
I’m unsure whether this set was exclusive to Europe or if it was available in other regions as well. The delightful combination of Shelly and her pony certainly adds a unique touch to any Barbie collection.
Finding such special sets is always an exciting experience, especially when their origin or availability is a bit of a mystery. If you have any insights or information about this set, I’d love to hear from you!
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The Adorable Love ‘n Care Kelly Set: Kelly’s Bedtime with Chickenpox
Another irresistibly cute addition to my collection is the Love ‘n Care Kelly set. This set features Kelly in a cozy bed, complete with a playful detail—she’s depicted with chickenpox.
The Love ‘n Care Kelly set stands out for its unique and endearing concept. The depiction of Kelly dealing with chickenpox adds a charming touch of realism and imagination to the set, making it a standout piece in any Barbie collection.
These delightful and themed sets showcase the creativity and attention to detail that make Barbie dolls so special. They also reflect how Barbie and her friends were designed to resonate with various aspects of everyday life, even in their most playful forms.
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Love n Care Kelly from 2002, special edition with less toys and the dress is lacking. She was sold at KB. #kellydolls #kellydoll #barbiesister #kelly2002 #barbie2002 #barbiesuperstar #superstarbarbie #kb #specialedition #busybfromgermany #barbiedoctor #barbiestagram
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A Cherished Early Find: The “Tea for Three” Kelly Gift Set
We shouldn’t overlook the “Tea for Three” Kelly gift set, which holds a special place in my collection. This charming set was one of my early acquisitions and was among the first to make its way into my collection soon after its release.
The “Tea for Three” set features Kelly and her friends in a delightful tea party scene, capturing a whimsical and heartwarming moment. Its addition to my collection marked an exciting milestone and remains a beloved piece.
Early sets like this often have a unique significance, as they represent the beginning of a collector’s journey and the joy of discovering new and endearing additions to their collection.
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A very cute Toys R us exclusive set was the “Tea for Three Kelly gift set” from 2003. She comes with two plush friends, chairs and a table so that they can have tea immediately. #barbiekelly #kellyteaforthree #kelly2003 #barbie2003 #toysrus #barbiesuperstar #superstarbarbie #busybfromgermany #kellyclub #kellystagram #barbiestagram #barbiedoctor
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Another Adorable Find at Toys”R” Us: A Set to Fall in Love With
Let’s stay at Toys”R” Us for a moment and explore another incredibly cute set that’s sure to capture your heart. This set, like many others from Toys”R” Us, exudes charm and has a unique appeal that makes it a standout piece in any Barbie collection.
The set in question is delightfully endearing, with every detail meticulously crafted to charm collectors and fans alike. From its thoughtful accessories to the cute and lovable characters, this set truly embodies the playful spirit that makes Barbie so special.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the world of Barbie, finding such adorable sets can be a highlight of your collecting journey. Stay tuned as we dive deeper into more of these enchanting finds!
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That’s the Kelly & Liana dress up friends gift set. Very cute and a Toys r us exclusive from 2002. #kellyandfriends #kellyandfriend #kellydoll #barbiedoll #kelly2002 #barbie2002 #superstarbarbie #toysrus #kellystagram #barbiestagram #dollcollector #busybfromgermany #barbiedoctor #barbiedoctora
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Exploring Unique Foreign Sets: The Wedding Barbie & Kelly from the Philippines
We shouldn’t overlook the intriguing foreign sets featuring Kelly and Barbie. Currently, I have one such unique set in my collection: the Wedding Barbie & Kelly from the Philippines.
This set stands out not only for its distinctive theme but also for its cultural charm. The Wedding Barbie & Kelly set offers a glimpse into the international appeal of Barbie, showcasing how different regions put their unique spin on beloved characters.
The Philippine edition of this set is particularly captivating, with its special design and details that reflect local influences. It’s a testament to the global reach of Barbie and the diverse ways in which she has been embraced and celebrated around the world.
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Wrapping Up: The Fascinating World of Shelly/Kelly Variations
I hope you enjoyed exploring the diverse range of Shelly/Kelly sets with me. While I don’t have every set, my collection is always evolving, and I’m continually on the lookout for new additions. If you happen to come across any Shelly/Kelly sets that I might not have, please let me know!
As my collection grows, I look forward to sharing more discoveries with you. Perhaps in the future, I’ll be able to write a third part to this series, showcasing even more of these charming little dolls.
Thank you for joining me on this journey through the wonderful world of Shelly/Kelly. I hope you share my enthusiasm for these delightful dolls and that you’ve enjoyed the article as much as I have enjoyed writing it.
In this week I’d like to blog about books, or better books you should have in your collection. I’m sitting in the middle in a heap of books while writing. I can tell you from my long term collecting experience that it’s a big advantage to have some books as reference. I have not only one book but almost a shelf of Barbie doll books. The topics are very different.
There are Barbie doll books for identification, books about Barbie history, books about Japanese Barbie and their clothes, Barbie books similar to catalogs, Barbie books about clothes, books about her accessoires and books in Japanese (no joke) about Barbie. Okay, I also have two German editions but do they count? They were some of the first books I found about Barbie doll as a collector. In times before amazon.com was known worldwide it was not so easy to get every book you wanted ( especially if they were written in English). Of course you could try to get them with the help of local book stores but hey, it was not as easy as you might think. I think I got my very first Barbie book in 1998 and it was a coincidence that I found it.
The possibility to talk to other collectors, who had books, was very helpful. That’s how I found out that there were books similar to catalogs. It was certainly helpful knowledge. I can recommend you lots of books but I think it’s useful to put them in categories.
Barbie books for id
In this paragraph I’d like to introduce you to some of my favorite Barbie doll books. Books for identification (often similar to catalogs):
The Ultimate Barbie doll book by Marcie Melillo
The collectors encyclopedia of Barbie dolls and collectibles by Sibyl DeWein and Joan Ashabraner (first published in 1977, I have the 1992 updated version)
Skipper: Barbie doll’s little sister by Trina Cottingham and Scott Arend ( for Skipper, her early fashions, Tutti and Todd and their fashions)
Barbie doll photo album from 1959 until 2009: identifications and values by Michael Augustyniak
Barbie doll around the world 1964 – 2007: identifications and values by Michael Augustyniak ( incomplete but nice)
Collector’s Encyclopedia of Barbie doll by Michael Augustyniak ( about collector Barbie dolls)
Collector’s Encyclopedia of Barbie dolls exclusives 1972 -2004 by Michael Augustyniak
Collectibly yours Barbie doll by Margo Rana
Identifying Barbie dolls by Janine Fennick
The wonder of Barbie dolls and accessoires 1976 – 1986 by Paris and Susan Manos
The world of Barbie dolls – an illustrated value guide by Paris and Susan Manos
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The Ultimate Barbie doll book by Marcie Melillo #barbieid #barbieidentification #barbievintage #barbiemod #barbiesuperstarera #skipperbarbie #barbieskipper #barbiebook #bookbarbie #barbiebookshelf #busybfromgermany
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ollector’s Encyclopedia of Barbie dolls exclusives 1972 -2004 by Michael Augustyniak #barbiecatalog #barbiecatalogue #barbiebook #bookbarbie #barbiedoll #barbiebookshelf #busybfromgermany
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In which books you can find fashions and accessoires
In this second paragraph I’d like to give you some titles about Barbie fashion and accessoires
Barbie doll fashion Vol. I, II and III ( from 1959 until 1979) including all fashions
Barbie in Japan by Keiko Kimura Shibano (special made fashions for the Japanese market, written in English)
Japan Barbie Yasuhiro Sekiguchi Collection (written in Japanese)
It’s all about the accessoires by Hillary Shilkitus James
The Complete & Unauthorized Guide to Vintage Barbie(r) Dolls – 3 Edition by Hillary Shilkitus James
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Barbie fashions Vol III by Sarah Sink Eames #barbiefashion #barbiebook #bookbarbie #collectorbook #barbiebookshelf #busybfromgermany
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Japanese Barbie books written in Japanese
In the third paragraph I’d like to give you some names of my Japanese Barbie books. I can’t tell you if they are the only ones in Japan but they sounded interesting to me any my thirst to get to know new things.
(Babi to watashi ? kisegae doresu o tsukuri tsudzuketa hansei-ki) by Fumiko Miyatsuka
( Babi kara hajimatta) by Yukiko Kanno
Twist Barbie (yomiuri kara-mukkusiri-zu) by Mineo Takami
The Japanese books are not so easy to get. The book by Fumiko Miyatsuka is currently available through amazon.jp. You need a credit card to buy the book but the shipment is very fast. I think my copy arrived within a week or less. The other books were a bit harder to get. You need a Japanese address to buy the other books over the marketplace. There are special forwarders who are specialized in shipping goods abroad. I used tenso.com for my orders and the books arrived at my house within two months. I used the cheapest shipping method because I have to pay taxes for the shipping costs too. I know it makes no sense but it is this way in Germany.
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( Babi kara hajimatta) by Yukiko Kanno #barbiejapan #japanesebook #japanesebarbie #barbiehistory #barbiebook #foreignbarbiebook #bookbarbie #barbiebookshelf #busybfromgermany
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My list of books written from employees, the founder itself and the history of Mattel
In the fourth paragraph I’ll give you some names of books from employees of Mattel, the company history itself and the founder. Let’s start with the founder. Again I’ll give you a list.
Dream Doll – The Ruth Handler story written by Ruth Handler and Jaqueline Shannon
The story of Barbie by Kitturah B. Westenhouser
Barbie her life & times by Billyboy
Dressing Barbie by Carol Spencer
Forever Barbie by M.G. Lord
Barbie (R) Talks by Gwen Florea
Barbie – A visual guide to the ultimate fashion doll by Mattel
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Barbie her life & times by Billyboy #barbie80s #80sbarbie #barbiecollecting #billyboy #barbiebook #barbiebook #busybfromgermany
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Books missing in my collection
There are some books I don’t have like
Barbie and Her Mod, Mod, Mod, Mod, World of Fashion by Joe Blitman
Francie and Her Mod, Mod, Mod World of Fashion by Joe Blitman
Barbie Forever ( not available in Germany yet, but I preordered my copy)
Of course I can’t tell you if these books are useful or not since I don’t have them in my collection.
That’s my whole book collection at the moment. I hope that my lists are helpful to some of you. I put photos of all my books in my instagram account.
Why I recommend buying Barbie books
Now I’ve given you the list with all the Barbie books I have in my personal bookshelf. I think it’s important to own books about Barbie dolls. You can make yourself independent from other collectors. I love to read in books and especially in Barbie books. You can learn a lot from them. That’s also one of my focus points. I like to learn things from books. You can use them as encyclopedia. One can help other collectors with knowledge. I know there are lots of collectors who start to collect and then immediately stop again. Forget this group. If you’re really interested in the topic buy books. They are helpful. They are fun. Go, buy and learn.
I’d like to share another article about my Barbie wiki today on another sister of Barbie called Kelly. Kelly is in variation still today available on the market but I’m not so much interested in the new doll called Chelsea. The name was changed to Chelsea in 2011.
I’m going to give you all information I found and know about Barbie’s baby sister Kelly and her early years. Baby sister Kelly was available in 1994. She was developed by Carol Spencer, a longtime Mattel employee, who started her career in the 1960s at Mattel. As far as I was able to find out Kelly her very own project. She wrote about this time in her recently published book called “Dressing Barbie“.
Love at first sight with Shelly
I really loved the doll the first time I saw her in a catalog. She was so cute and I decided that I wanted to buy everything I could find for and about Kelly. That was in 1995. And from the early years I have almost everything in my collection.
Carol designed all her clothes. Kelly was known as Shelly in Europe and Canada. Maybe a decision for better sales figures? I have no idea why they changed her name for the European market but in 1995 she was also available in Europe too. I would estimate that she was approximately three or four years old in 1995. The first edition of Kelly “Bedtime Fun Kelly” included a Kelly doll with a pink pyjama and a baby bed. She also came with a Sunday dress made out of black velvet and lots of toys . A short while later she got three friends. They were called Susie, Chelsea and Melody.
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They reminded me of a comic
I’m not sure but I think in 1995 there was also a very big gift set with Barbie, Skipper, Stacie and Kelly having fun on a big sleigh known as Winter Holiday gift set. This set it very special because Skipper is one of the few dolls with the back then recently newly introduced Pizza Hut face mold which is lovely but different from the mold that was used before. Kelly in her snow suit always reminded me of character of a Japanese comic series inspired by Louisa May Alcotts “Little Women”. Maybe that’s why I wanted the set but I’m not sure. I had no set with all four sisters until then.
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Many sets and dolls became available
Later in 1996 there was the first Barbie Kelly gift sets called Strolling Fun Barbie and Kelly this set came with a stroller. Shelly was able to move her on arm while sitting in the stroller. In 1997 there was another Kelly Barbie gift set called Shopping Fun gift set. In this set Kelly sat in her shopping cart. She had magnet in in her hand. She was able to hold a pair of prepared boxes (also with a magnet). In 1996 she was also produced as Bathing Fun Shelly. I found two variations in pink and yellow for the trim of her towel and bathrobe. I also found variations in the dolls themselves. One of my Bathing Fun Shellys has Saran hair and the other one has Kanekalone hair.
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Barbie & kelly strollin fun Th. 1995, rare.. dus rusak tapi isinya bagus, new ya masih segel (kenangan anak 90an) sold . . . #jualbarbievintage #barbie1995 #barbiestrollinfun #barbiekelly #barbie90s
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My two Bathtime Fun versions ( Kanekalone hair in box, Saran hair below)
In 1997 she got her potty training set. The Potty Training Kelly has a bottle you could really fill with water and then push on the heart button on her belly to make her pee. I think it was a similar mechanism like used for the drink and wet dolls but in a much tinier execution.
More functions
Carol Spencer produced several very sweet clothing sets for her in in the first years. I have made lots of pics of early outfits which you can find here https://barbie.final-memory.org/my-shellykelly-fashion-show/. These sets very not only available for Kelly but in in a combination for Barbie and Kelly. They got matching styles.
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There was also Pool fun series shown in advertisements. I had a long time problems to find out if this series was produced or or if it was was only a prototype shown in the advertisement (like often in catalogs in the 1990s). In 2007 or 2008 I finally found her and her friends and I know this series was produced and I got mine. https://barbie.final-memory.org/a-first-impression-of-my-shellykelly-collection/
Pool Fun Kelly
Kelly goes abroad
Eating Fun Shelly/Kelly was introduced in 1997 but I can’t tell you how the mechanism works since mine is still in box. After that came in 1997 there was another set with all four sisters called “Travelin Fun Sisters” https://images.app.goo.gl/Cj4XFoZgRGVNEkh48. Last year I furthermore found the Power wheels Jeep set with Shelly and Tommy (male baby counterpart for Kelly). In box this set is hard to find and it’s often very expensive. So I had to wait a long time until I found one.
I have for example many sets of early Kelly/Shelly sets. I’m going to divide this article in at least two parts. Next part is coming soon.
This week I continue my series with my little wiki of Barbie, her family and friends. I’m going to write a little bit of the male friends of Barbie over the last decades. Her boyfriend, called Ken, was available first in 1961. There was a big demand for something like a male friend or a boyfriend, as the literature says.
I don’t know if it is true or not but some sources report about Ken that there were three prototypes of the doll with different male genitals or intimations but only the the weakest intimation made it into production. It was regarded as very offensive for girls at the age of 10 or older to see a replica of nature. The society was not ready to deal with replicas of nature. So the logical conclusion is that Ken and his friends are eunuchs until their end?
Ken doll, the first one
In 1961 Ken doll became available. He was designed as a male friend or more, depending on the fantasy of the girl who owned him. At first he was marketed a doll for boys. Ruth Handler did not want to limit the fantasy of children during their plays. This can, of course, seen as an attempt to sell a wider variety of dolls to different children (female and male ones).
Obviously this did not work out as planned. Girls found the male doll as attractive as Barbie doll. The sales figures were not bad but the target group was refocused. Early TV ads are a good example for this theory. Only the 1961 Ken came with flocked hair. The later versions came with painted hair. There was almost every year a re-issue of Ken until 1966. For more information about the different Vintage Ken types of the 1960s and their clothing please have a look at https://somethingabouttheboy.com/
Several years ago I did a video about my Kens too and you can watch it here
My full Ken ID videoFlocked haired Ken to the left, 1962 Ken, 1963 Ken and Shortie Ken (from 1964)
Ken got a friend called Allan
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People loved wearing hats and coats in the 1960s. Was it a lot colder back then? #kensdaywednesday #barbieallan #barbiemidge #allansherwood #midgehadley #barbiedreamhouse
In 1964 Allan was released as a male friend for Midge, Barbie’s best friend. So the four could go on a double date like in real life. I think from today’s point of view it’s a bit old-fashioned but I think in the 60s it was wide-spread. Allan disappeared in the late 1960s until he came back to a new generation of little girls when he and Midge celebrated their wedding (after a relationship of 25 years).
Then he was suddenly gone for almost 10 years and came back in 2002 to become father (after almost 40 years of relationship). After the Happy Family play set time was over, he disappeared again. If you see him, greet him and say we kind of miss him.
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ALLAN (or how to steal your best friend’s husband headmold for your boyfriend). Jokes aside… In 1990 a handsome groom made his reappearence to marry Barbie’s bestie Midge with a facemold exclusively made for this ocassion. The flamant groom was Allan and his face became so successful that Mattel set aside the plans to launch him and Midge with their own family line as a replacement of the Heart Family (years before the Happy Family) to give Ken this new face because people prefered the Alan facemold (with a single L) than the 1988 Ken one. The 90s saw Ken with several faces, many created from Alan’s mold as a base with modifications, most of them in the way the hair was sculpted, although we can see some models with rooted hair too. Alan reapeared with Midge in 2001 with another face mold in the controverted line Happy Family and since this line we didn’t see him again. The boys: Sparkle Surprise Ken 1992 (Alan Facemold) Ken Secret Heart 1991 (Secret Heart Ken Facemold) Ken Hollywood Hair 1992 (Short Hair Alan) Ken Magic Jewel 2002 (Alan Rooted) #alanfacemold #barbiealan #kenalan #barbiemattel #kenmattel #alanmattel #kenhollywoodhair #kensparklesurprise #kensecrethearts #kenmagicjewel #fashiondoll
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The first afro-american friends
After Allan was gone, Brad came. Brad was the male friend or boyfriend of Christie. Brad, Christie and the black Francie were the first black Barbie dolls available. Today they are highly sought after. Then after Brad came Curtis, a male friend of Cara. His availability was also very limited to two years in the early 1970s.
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Ken got real hair
Ken got eventually real hair (like Barbie doll) in the 1970s, one edition was the “Now Look Ken” in 1975 and the other one was “Sport and Shave Ken” in 1979. Groovy. The next Ken with real hair was the “Totally Hair/Ultra Hair Ken” in 1991 and “Shaving Fun Ken” in 1995 or 1996, then the Ken of “Butterfly Princess Barbie” also had real hair and a late 90s version of the Shaving Ken too.
All the other editions had painted hair. Ken was constantly available and a reliable companion until 2004. Suddenly Ken and Barbie were separated and Barbie got a new boyfriend called Blaine but their relationship did not last that long. At the begin of this decade there was a reunion of Barbie and Ken.
Mod hair Ken prototype
In 1981 the Sunsational Malibu Ken (black version) was the first official black Ken. I read about it that it became possible due to changed laws in 1980. A hispanic version of Ken was available in 1983, the Sun Gold Malibu Ken (hispanic version).
More friends
In 1982 Ken got a friend called Todd ( not sure if Todd from Tutti and Todd grew up or if this is another character). In 1986 he got a new friend called Derek (Rocker Derek).
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Dereck the rock star 1986 ????#barbie #instabarbie #rock #rockstar #star #neon #80smusic #80sbarbie #barbiecollection #barbiecollector #dereck #barbiederek ?
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Skipper also got a male friend or boyfriend in 1979 called Scott but he disappeared again in 1980. Later in the early 1990s she got a new companion called Kevin from around 1990 until 1995. Unfortunately I was not able to find more information about Kevin.
My post from last week inspired me to write more about Barbie dolls friends and family. In my article I’m talking about Stacey and Stacie.
Stacey had her first appearance in 1967 as Barbie’s Talking friend/Barbie’s friend from England. The Talking Stacey doll was spoken by Gwen Florea, who wrote a very nice book about her time at Mattel in the 60s and 70s. I was unfortunately too late to talk to her. It was only a short while before she died. Bad luck …
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Two TNT Staceys. #barbiestacey #modbarbie #stripesarehappening #barbie
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Stacey was designed as a friend of Barbie from England. She had the same size like Barbie doll and of course they were able to share clothes. Stacey brought lots of MOD(ern) clothes from the Carnaby Street in London, England to her friend Barbie. Maybe that’s how to crazy and colorful MOD clothes came into Barbie dolls wardrobe?
Stacey was available as blonde version and a red haired version ( I love this version but I don’t have one at the moment … hope that’s going to change one day..) . She was available until 1971. In 1972 she was sent to retirement… so sad … I wish they had produced her for a longer time. I can’t imagine that the sales figures were that bad.
Anyway in the early 1990s Barbie suddenly got a sister called Stacie. I would say she was approx. 10 years old in the good old time. She was a twin and had a twin brother called Todd ( who somehow reminded me of the Todd from the 1960s, Tutti’s twin brother). One of my thoughts was that she should maybe present a kind of a modern Tutti. Stacie could first be seen at the time Midge became a bride. She was sold at Toys r us together with Todd as flower girl and ring bearer. There was also a big gift set for the Midge Wedding with Stacie, Todd, Midge, Alan, Barbie and Ken. I think she reappeared one or two years later a steady character of the Barbie family and got an own clothing line, friends Janet and Whitney and disappeared around 2000. So one could think she was sent into retirement before she became a teenager?
Obviously she came back in the last decade but her character was changed. She became older and appeared in the Barbie movies. In the meantime she was sold as a doll again.
In 1964, Barbie welcomed her first sister, Skipper, marking the beginning of a growing family for the iconic doll. Skipper was the first addition to Barbie’s expanding family, which continued to grow until 1999 with the arrival of Krissy.
Just for fun, imagine the age of Barbie’s mother when Barbie was born, and then consider she was 40 years older when Krissy arrived—a true marvel of fertility!
When Skipper debuted in 1964, she was offered in both blonde and brunette hair colors. Unfortunately, a red-haired version wasn’t part of the initial release, which left a gap for those of us who love a bit more variety in hair color.
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My “mint” (haha) Skipper also suffers from green tarnish from her original headband. I’m sorting my #skipperdoll collection tonight deciding which dolls most need a spa visit with @angiepangiepaints ?????? #vintageSkippers #barbiecollector #vintagebarbie #barbieskipper #skipperbarbie #vintageskipper #instabarbie #barbiegram #barbie #barbieaddict #barbiesisters #barbiegrammers
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More changes in the 1970s
Until 1971 her look was not changed very much. The first change of her face I think came when she was available as Living Skipper. Her hair style also changed a bit. In her history her body was also changed several times. One of the most controverse Skipper dolls was the Growing Up Skipper (available, I did a little bit of research https://youtu.be/9LuI0W8SmzY) in 1975.
She has a mechanism inside her body and when you twist her arm in the right direction her body grows and she gets breasts. From a technical point of view very interesting since this mechanism works in my Growing Up Skipper until today, so it must be a very simple but effective mechanism with a spring I think (just from the sounds I hear when I move her arms). Her body also changes a bit. She becomes taller.
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The Evolution of Skipper: From Super Teen to Pizza Hut
In the late 1970s, Skipper underwent a significant transformation and was reintroduced as “Super Teen Skipper” to align with the era’s fascination with everything “super.” During this period, Skipper received a new face and body design, reflecting the trend of the time. The variations were so pronounced that it’s rare to find two Skipper dolls with identical sizes in my collection. The frequency of changes in Skipper’s face and body increased as the doll remained on the market, with each iteration bringing something new.
The 1980s saw the debut of Hot Stuff Skipper, featuring yet another face and body redesign. In 1988, Skipper received a notable update with her “Kulleraugen” face—a term used in Germany to describe her large, expressive eyes. This new face design resembled the Japanese comic (manga) style, even before many of us were familiar with manga. Although early Japanese TV series took time to reach us, Skipper’s comic-like eyes perfectly mirrored the popular style we saw on television.
However, Skipper’s appearance continued to evolve. By the mid-1990s, the “Pizza Hut” Skipper introduced a new head mold and body, marking yet another shift in her look. I remember acquiring her back then under the name “Phone Fun” Skipper. This version of Skipper was short-lived but remains a unique and memorable part of her evolutionary journey.
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My childhood dream came true today. I had a tiny picture of the two phone fun girl when I was 11. I kept that tiny bit of paper for many years as a wishlist later as a good luck charm. But after many years the paper just gave up but I never forgot them. Today I received Skipper who was a great deal and she is in amazing condition. Getting Courtney will be a bigger challenge but I am hopeful. Now skipper is going to a glass cabinet in Kamilla’s future room ?? #phonefunskipper #dollymail #childhooddream
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The Transition to Teen Skipper: A New Chapter
Following the release of “Phone Fun” Skipper, a significant change occurred. Skipper grew up to match Barbie’s size and was reintroduced as “Teen Skipper.” This new iteration featured an entirely redesigned head mold and body, marking a notable shift in her appearance. With this transformation, Skipper moved away from her previous look as a 13-year-old, adopting the appearance of a 16-year-old.
One of the standout examples of this new Teen Skipper is the “Slumber Party Skipper,” which showcases her updated design beautifully. The transition to Teen Skipper represented a significant evolution in her character, aligning her more closely with the style and maturity of Barbie.
However, as the new millennium approached, Teen Skipper’s presence diminished, and she virtually disappeared from the market for nearly a decade. Despite this hiatus, her legacy remains an important part of Barbie’s history.
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old photo of my #teenskipper #skipperdoll #dollstagram
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A Comeback for Teen Skipper: Resurgence and New Looks
After a nearly decade-long hiatus following the turn of the millennium, Teen Skipper made a notable comeback. In 2010, she reappeared in a Target-exclusive gift set, where she was featured as a bridesmaid. This marked the beginning of her renewed presence in the market.
The resurgence continued in 2012 with a vibrant new look—Teen Skipper sported colorful hair, reflecting the evolving trends and styles of the time. This reintroduction was well-received, showcasing a fresh take on the beloved character.
As of 2019, Teen Skipper appears to be available on a more permanent basis, making her a familiar face once again in the world of Barbie. If you search for her online, you’ll find that she’s presented with an age range of 15 to 17 years, blending elements of her classic design with contemporary updates.
More About Skipper: Barbie’s Beloved Sister
Skipper Millicent Roberts, introduced in 1964, was designed as a 12 or 13-year-old teenage girl. Her creation was driven by requests from Barbie owners who desired an additional doll to complement Barbie, Midge, and Ken. Skipper provided a new dimension to the Barbie universe, serving as a bridge to younger girls who might not yet be teenagers.
In the early 1960s, it was quite common for teenagers to own Barbie dolls, which may seem unusual by today’s standards. Nowadays, Barbie often becomes less appealing as children transition from kindergarten to school, but Skipper’s introduction catered to a younger audience, making her a popular choice.
Over the decades, Skipper made many friends, each adding to her story. In the 1960s, she was accompanied by Skooter and Ricky. Later on, friends like Courtney, Kevin, and Nikki joined her, expanding her circle and keeping her character vibrant and relatable.
Barbie, the iconic doll, continues to captivate children and collectors worldwide. She is available in over 150 countries, as reported by various sources, including News18. Below is a list of countries where Barbie has a significant presence:
North America
USA
Canada
Mexico (Produced under license by CIPSA in the 1970s and Aurimat in the 1980s)
South America
Brazil (Under license by Estrela)
Peru (Under license by Basa)
Venezuela (Under license by Rotoplast)
Colombia (Under license by Dibon, which went bankrupt shortly after production began)
Japan (Initially produced by Mattel in the 1960s, later by companies like Takara, Ma-Ba, Bandai, and Mattel again after 1995)
China (Attempted market entry in 2009)
Indonesia
Taiwan
Philippines
Malaysia
Korea
India
Oceania
Australia
Middle East
Saudi Arabia
Egypt
Similar Dolls in Other Regions in addition to countries where Barbie is available
In addition to Barbie, there are similar dolls in other parts of the world that cater to local cultural norms and preferences. One notable example is Fulla, a doll available in the Middle East. Fulla is similar to Barbie but is designed to reflect the cultural values of the region, often featuring a headscarf. This doll has gained popularity among collectors and can be easily found online.
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Recent Developments not depending on countries where Barbie is available
Mattel has also made efforts to diversify Barbie’s appearance. In 2017, they released a Barbie doll wearing a hijab, reflecting a more inclusive and modern approach to representation (Insideretail).
Additionally, before Mattel introduced curvy Barbie bodies, there were attempts to create dolls with more realistic body shapes, such as Lammily dolls, which aimed to provide a more diverse and relatable option for children.
Additional Notes
the list is based on the latest available information and will be updated as new data becomes available.
Some countries, like Russia and Egypt, have had fluctuating market presence.
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This is one of my latest #takarabarbie. As soon as I know she’s a #jenny. She’s from 1986 but I found her not in any of my books. She reminds me of a school girl. Some collectors say she was re-named Jenny after a broken business deal with Mattel and Takara (so not Barbie anymore) #jennyjapan #takarajennydoll #takaradoll #barbiedoctor #barbiedoctora #busybfromgermany #barbievintage #vintagebarbie #barbiemod #modbarbie #barbiesuperstar #superstarbarbie
Ein Beitrag geteilt von Busy B from Germany (@busybfromgermany) am
Several months ago I bought a book from Amazon Japan and while looking around I found two other interesting books but they were sold out at Amazon directly. So I had to found a solution that I could buy from the Amazon Japan Marketplace and have the books shipped to Germany. I gonna tell you more in video that I plan how I did it exactly. Today I got the books from the donahue. I took a look inside but my Japanese is too bad to read the books at the moment but I will try to learn it.
Twist Barbie from JapanTwist Barbie back cover in JapaneseB?b? kara hajimatta (It began with Barbie)
I bought these books a birthday presents although they needed two months to arrive here. That’s okay and also the fact that they are used. I have nothing against used books.
