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This beautiful
new book is a history of Teddy’s dramatic evolution, from his
first creation in 1902 to becoming a valuable collectible, and
his present work-of-art status. You’ve come a long way, Teddy,
and the author brings a unique concept of the last 100+ years of
Teddy’s past to his present.
I was pleased
to add this volume to my library of teddy bear books, owing to
Kathy Martin’s exceptional view of Teddy’s progression from
traditional childhood toy to his modern day, broad variety of
characteristics. This is the author’s first book, but not her
last. As a lifetime bruin owner, teddy bear collector, and
creator of original teds, I have always preferred a more
traditional appearance of teddy bears. Kathy Martin has opened
my eyes to a new appreciation for modern bruins, designed and
created by talented, imaginative teddy bear artists at the
forefront of innovation in modern teddy bear creation.
Though teddy
bear metamorphosis is the theme, I found good history,
information, and facts new to me as I read the chapters. I
enjoyed the author’s shared knowledge and evident familiarity
with all subjects in the volume. There are chapters on teddy
bears used in advertising and as symbols of various causes;
bears with more than one purpose; truly colourful teddies; bears
in costumes; bears worth their weight in gold; an interesting
section on bears in literature; and much more, all written of
with style and expertise.
The pictures,
from many sources, are attractive, with handsome presentations.
All the images are in colour, except for reproductions of some
very old photographs. It is always of interest to see pictures
of teddies which have not been in other books, though some of
the lovely photographs are of bears which are famous and
familiar.
The volume has
an appealing cover, primarily in shades of blue featuring a
large picture of an artist bear. Three smaller inset photos of
other bears are stacked alongside him, to give a pictorial hint
of the book’s content on the front
cover.
This brand
new, up to date book will be a welcome addition to any teddy
bear book collection, and a great gift for those with little
knowledge of teddy bear history who would like to know more.
Lovely to look at, enjoyable to read, a treasure to own, and
destined for classic teddy bear book status. |
