Susanna Oroyan has done it again. She makes wonderful dolls and in this book she makes it possible for anyone to create their own wonderful doll. Excellent text and easy to follow drawings and photos will make a sculptor out of anyone.

With step by step sculpting instructions for all doll parts, heads, hands and feet, she makes it possible for anyone to sculpt! She stresses practice and repetition while giving you constant encouragement along the way.

The gallery of doll photos throughout the book are inspiration enough to keep you busy for years. The idea of imitating or reproducing someone else’s work doesn't have time to form. Her emphasis on creativity keeps your mind racing on to new possibilities as you sculpt.

Almost any questions you might have about the new clays, both polymer and paper, are fully covered, as well as specific characteristics of the different brands. There are reference lists and lists of resources if you have any further questions that haven't been answered. Several well know dollmakers have included their preferences as to brands they use and why. I really enjoyed and appreciated that portion of the book. It gave me more than just Susanna's point of view on different products.

My favorite helpful hint was the use of a mirror when sculpting a head. I've always had trouble with the balance on a face and using a mirror as I work has helped me solve the dominant eye problem. Now, I'll really be excited when I get my hands mastered!

This book brought into focus several things to help in my dollmaking. I love the illusion of movement in figures but sometimes the arms or legs just float. By putting hard edges at the elbows and knees, even under clothing, my figures seemed to suddenly "dance". It is a simple adjustment that makes a huge difference. Thank you Susanna, for this book!

I was very happy that her section on displays and accessories emphasized the need to be aware of scale. The effect of so many wonderful dolls has been ruined by too large an accessory. (It's one of my pet peeves.)