More than a half century ago, an enchanting, curly-headed sprite sang and danced her way across the silver screen and into the hearts of American moviegoers. And during the meteoric career that followed, Shirley Temple's dimpled, smiling image appeared on countless articles — from sheet music to playing cards. Among the most popular were wonderfully lifelike paper dolls.
The full-color figures and costumes reproduced in this delightful collection appeared in the very first Shirley Temple paper-doll book — published in 1934 by the Saalfield Publishing Company of Akron, Ohio. Much of her wardrobe was typical of clothing worn by six-year-olds in the 1930s, but other, more lavish outfits helped create a fantasy world that appealed to youngsters during the harsh time of the Depression.
Reproduced directly from rare original plates, this volume contains four charming dolls and 30 appealing costumes, including a bright red snow suit (accompanied by a pair of doll skis), blue-and-white striped overalls, a one-piece pajama set with attached doll, a green dress with an Easter basket filled with chicks and bunny and a red sunsuit with attached pail and shovel. Also shown are outfits worn by the lovable moppet in many of her film roles: a red-and-white polka-dotted dress from Stand Up and Cheer (1934), her first major motion picture; a ruffled pink dress worn in Baby Takes a Bow, and more. Fold-down bases let the dolls stand up while dressed in these charming and colorful outfits.
Nostalgia buffs will especially appreciate the period playthings that complement Shirley's wardrobe — teddy bears and other stuffed animals, a tea set, a red metal wagon, and a miniature wicker baby carriage, among others. Older Shirley Temple fans will find this irresistible volume a storehouse of pleasant memories. Paper-doll enthusiasts and children of all ages can expect hours of fun-filled entertainment.