When I go into a bookstore I almost always browse through the childrens books looking for delightful illustrations. Illustrated childrens books are one of my favorite things and if it is a sweet story that includes dolls I am hooked. I only have two in my collection, but am always looking for more.
The Story of Holly and Ivy by Rumer Godden was originally published in Ladies’ Home Journal in 1957. In 1985, illustrations were added to the story and this is the book that I discovered at my local library years ago. After checking it out for a few years in a row at Christmastime I wanted my own copy. Lucky for me it was republished in 2006. It is now in my collection and one I look through every Christmas season. I love the magical old world story and looking at the cozy illustrations by Barbara Cooney.
The other doll book in my collection is one that I had as a child and loved so much. I forgot about this book, but stumbled upon it online recently. Seeing the cover of this book on the internet brought back a flood of memories that made me want to add this to my collection as well. The Surprise Doll was originally published in 1949, but published again in 2009.
Do you have any favorite sweet doll books to share? Please let me know if you do. I would LOVE to hear about your favorites.
Cindy Rice Designs 
Miss Happiness and Miss Flower is also by Rumer Godden and one I have read and re-read since I was little! I think you’ll like it too. And of course there is Miss Hickory by Carolyn Bailey. Another classic that is always good.
I think they’re both worth looking for. Enjoy!
Ann
Thank you, Ann, I will be sure to look into your suggestions.
My personal all time favorite doll book is Hitty, Her First Hundred Years by Rachel Field. I was enchanted with it the first time I read it and wanted a Hitty of my own. To say I am obsessed is am understatement. I have many Hittys in my collection now and the Hittys have their own house and furniture and wardrobes… Iam always thinking of adding to my girls every day! Thanks for sharing Cindy! Carol
Hello Carol. Thank you for adding your favorite book to my post. Although I have heard of Hitty, I am not familiar with her. She sounds enchanting. I will keep my eyes open for this book and hope to read it soon so that I can learn about Hitty too.
The Surprise Doll — what lovely illustrations. The doll book I liked as a child was The Lonely Doll by Dare Wright
Hi Eva, I looked through the preview of this sweet book on Amazon. The photo pictures looks so cute. Thanks for adding your favorite book. 🙂
Your doll books are gorgeous, thanks for sharing!
Hi Marcia, I’m glad you enjoyed them. Thanks for commenting.
The Lonely Doll books are a treat
Carrie Waite
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Thanks, Carrie. I’ll be on the look out for The Lonely Doll.
Brings back memories. The Surprise Doll was also one of my favorites. I still have one from the 50’s but dated 1949, as well as about 1/2 of my original, probably from 1949, without the cover. I saved it as it has a few more illustrations than the one from the 50’s. Now I’ll have to look for the newer version.
Hi Joy, So nice to hear you enjoyed The Surprise Doll too! 🙂
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