'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Thursday 12 May 2011

Review: The Black Apple's Paper Doll Primer

Frequent readers will know that we adore 'beautiful' and 'out there' and 'different' at Kids Book Review. The Black Apple's Paper Doll Primer by Emily Winfield Martin certainly fits everyone one of these adorations. And then some.

Created by a passionate and whimsical artist, this beautiful book is described as 'activities and amusements for the curious paper artist'. Its subtitle couldn't be more perfect.

The gorgeous illustrations speak for themselves - featuring truly stunning 'dolls', utterly adorable clothing and a catalogue of 'scenes' that can be used to play out the papery lives of the book's inhabitants. Scenes include 'into the woods', 'the little village' and 'cosy kitchen'.

There's also a super charming section on creating a paper doll in your own likeness - with tips on how to create and customise, from hair-dos to socks. There's even a stash of clothing basics for the reader to choose from and embellish. Pages are designed to be photocopied (let's face it - who would want to chop this book to pieces?).

There's a beautiful section on making a family portrait of dolls and some inspirational activities like creating a flip book, a jointed doll and your own stationery. Clearly crafted by a woman brimming with supernatural creativity, this book is a whimsical delight that will entrance little girls. . . (or, as one KBR reader pointed out - little boys) if they can rend it from the clutches of their mothers, that is.

Title: The Black Apple's Paper Doll Primer
Author/Illustrator: Emily Winfield Martin
Publisher: Potter Craft, $32.95
Publication Date: 2 November 2010
ISBN: 9780307586568
Format: Soft cover
For ages: 5+
Type: Non-Fiction/Activity Book
Buy this book online

See more of Emily's beautiful work at theblackapple.typepad.com