I bought this book because I am a second hand doll collector and I like identifying dolls when I add them to my collection. Part of why I did not give this book the highest rating is because the majority of the dolls it features are not the type of dolls I usually pick up at flea markets or yardsales and aren't really the type I like to collect--so, if you are into higher end dolls, this book may be more to your liking. I really like the section on Dolls of the World and some of the collector's lines geared toward children. This book has some really nice facial close-ups and the pictures are mostly really clear. Another thing I like is how Augustyniak does cover the ethnic variations of dolls. In his Barbie Photo Album, he leaves them out a lot. I also like how he included some fashion packs. I don't like how he included a section of "One of a Kinds" in the back and I also don't like how many prototype pictures that he put in. However, if you like prototype pictures and One of a Kinds, it may be for you. Another thing I don't like is how he devotes a lot of space to non-doll items sold at collector's conventions (mugs with Barbie's name on it etc.). Overall, I enjoy this book and feel that it covers exactly what it tells you it will cover--and does it in detail. However, if you are more into playline dolls like myself, you may enjoy other books more.Read full review
I really like the fact that this book brought in the newer year barbies, but was disappointed to see that the values listed had dropped from the 2004 edition that I already had. Also, this book left out quite a few barbies and did not include store exclusives and their value. I would love to have a book that covers every barbie ever made which includes pictures, details, original prices, and their values. Overall, this is still a useful book that has very good illustrations, but I still disagree with the price guide, and wonder why the values have dropped. Brenda
This author seems to keep up with what's new in the Barbie world. I have two of his other encyclopedias and I have to say, I've used them many times to get an idea of what's out there and what it may be worth, to a collector. The newest dolls, in the book, are great to see. The list worth of each Barbie gives a good idea of what you might be looking for. Also, over the years, the list worth has changed and this book reflects those changes. I'm an absolute fan of the encyclopedias by J. Michael Augustyniak. The second revised edition that I have, I received directly from the author, signed by him.
My Granddaughter (9 yrs) finds this book very helpful in the facts and descriptions of the various Barbie models , Good photos of Barbies over the years.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I love this hardcover, colorful, informative book! Every Barbie doll that is worth collecting is in this book. Micheal even added some one of a kind dolls and how much they sold for in the back of this book. If you are on the fence about buying this book and you're not sure if it's worth the money, let me tell you, it is! I love to look at the beautiful photographs of all the Barbies. He has face shots, full body, and box shots of everyone! He gives a detailed explanation about every doll including what makes each one special. Also, he has the dolls seperated into categories and has a detailed index at the back. I'm telling you, I read the entire book the first night I recieved it and I have used it almost every day since. Any time I am going to buy a doll, I consult "The Book" first! Trust me: buy it, you won't regret it!!!Read full review
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