Reviews

  • Erick DuPree's profound insights into doll culture redefine our understanding of identity, gender, and social history. 'Dolls Beyond Play: The Cultural Significance of Dolls' is expansive, and likely one of the largest single-volume social histories of dolls, offering invaluable perspectives on the impact of these cherished artifacts."

    — SOPHIE MORRIS, CURATOR, THE VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM

  • DuPree has masterfully written a must-read for every collector in the doll community with an unapologetic approach to discovering the historical and cultural impact dolls have on individuals and society, while exploring our deeply personal relationships with dolls

    CONNIE JAMES REYNOLDS, PRESIDENT, THE UNITED FEDERATION OF DOLL CLUBS, INC.

  • Dolls Beyond Play takes care to include the intricate history of Black dolls, revealing layers of complexity often overlooked. This enlightening journey celebrates the resilience of Black heritage, making it a must-read for those passionate about cultural representation.

    BARBARA WHITEMAN, DIRECTOR, THE PHILADELPHIA DOLL MUSEUM

  • The saga of dolls is one that spans the length of human history—a constantly changing reflection of our own evolution and innovation. Erick DuPree masterfully connects the threads of culture across the east and the west spanning centuries--colonialism, capitalism, and artistic technique. This is a thrilling read for doll collectors who understand this deeply personal relationship, and anyone interested in the passionate story of humanity's efforts to recreate itself in miniature.-

    ASTOR YANG, DOLL DESIGNER, CREATIVE DIRECTOR, AY COLLECTIVE

  • Dolls Beyond Play is not just a book; it's a celebration of doll collectors' passion and dedication. DuPree's exploration of dolls as symbols of culture and identity is a must-read, shedding light on their impact on society and the need to integrate technology into the collecting world. From their profound influence on social media to the rich tapestry of doll history, this book makes collectors feel seen for their invaluable contributions. An essential addition to any doll lover's library!

    RACHEL HOFFMAN, FOUNDER, VIRTUAL DOLL CONVENTION

  • Erick DuPree's Dolls Beyond Play, is an important step forward in bringing down this unnatural reluctance to actually address the subject of dolls, to acknowledge their importance and cultural significance. Having spent the last 30 years narrowly exploring the history and cultural significance of ningyo (dolls) in the Japanese context, I laud DuPree's scope of vision and frankness in planting the flag of academic rigor and focus on the subject of dolls. And I trust that this important volume will be only the first of many to treat the singularly intrinsic and universal subject that is the doll.

    ALAN SCOTT PATE, AUTHOR, NINGYO: THE ART OF THE JAPANESE DOLL

Library Journal
Four white stars on a black background.

In Dolls Beyond Play, anthropologist Erick DuPree reframes dolls as powerful cultural and psychological artifacts. Blending history, theory, and personal insight, the book traces dolls from sacred objects to contemporary collectibles, examining how they shape identity, gender, and emotional life. A concise, engaging reappraisal of dolls as deeply human cultural forms.