"The Good, The Bad, and The Barbie" by Tanya Lee Stone.

Since her creation in 1959 Barbie has been a source of controversy.  Her creator, Ruth Handler envisioned a trendy doll for girls to play with and dress when they grew out of their "baby-doll" phase. However, Barbie has been criticized for creating an image of perfection that is just too difficult for girls to attain.

Tanya Lee Stone addresses all of this controversy in her new book The Good, The Bad, and The Barbie by presenting multiple views on the popular doll.  Although some believe that Barbie is teaching girls that physical beauty is the most important thing, others celebrate the way Barbie was able to do whatever she wanted and choose whichever career she pleased.  In addition, Ruth Handler is an icon for young women in that she created a huge toy company and a name for herself in an industry that has always been dominated by men.

If you have ever played with Barbies, you will be interested in this book.  There are great photos of Barbie, the way she has changed over time, and been modified by others.   I especially like that the author addressed many different ways to look at Barbie, both good and bad.  Even if you do not like nonfiction, this book is an easy read.  There is historical information but also funny stories and quotes from people that the author interviewed about their experiences with Barbie.