- The Doll People features illustrations by Brian Selznick, who is well-known for his distinctive visual storytelling in other works such as The Invention of Hugo Cabret.
- The authors, Ann M. Martin and Laura Godwin, collaborated on this book, marking a notable partnership between Martin, known for The Baby-Sitters Club series, and Godwin, an established editor and author.
- The Doll People was published in 2000 and became part of a popular series that has since captivated young readers with its imaginative adventures and detailed exploration of doll life.

The Doll People by Ann M. Martin and Laura Godwin captivates readers with its charming story and well-crafted characters. The book offers a magical blend of adventure and humor that appeals to children. Some critics note the pacing can be slow at times. Illustrations by Brian Selznick enhance the experience, adding depth to the whimsical world.

Fans of The Doll People by Ann M. Martin and Laura Godwin will enjoy stories blending fantasy and adventure. Ideal for readers aged 8-12, it appeals to those who appreciate toy narratives like Kate DiCamillo’s The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane or the world-building in Mary Norton’s The Borrowers.

The Doll People by Ann M. Martin and Laura Godwin follows a 100-year-old doll named Annabelle, who discovers a family secret kept in an attic dollhouse. The story explores themes of adventure and friendship as Annabelle and her doll companions navigate the challenges of living in a world where humans are unaware of their existence.

Adventurous / Fantastical / Mysterious / Playful

**Annabelle Doll**  
A china doll living in a dollhouse for over 100 years, who experiences adventures and forms friendships that challenge her conventional upbringing.

**Tiffany Funcraft**  
A plastic doll with a confident and exuberant personality, who becomes friends with Annabelle and enjoys energetic activities.

**Auntie Sarah Doll**  
A once mysterious member of the Doll family known for her adventurous spirit and influence, with a fascination for exploration and learning.

**Uncle Doll**  
A timid member of the Doll family who demonstrates both fear and love for his family, and struggles with courage throughout the story.

**Mama Doll, Papa Doll, and Nanny Doll**  
Conservative and traditional members of the Doll family, who initially prioritize safety and rule-following, but evolve over time.

**Kate and Nora Palmer**  
Human sisters who interact with the Doll family in differing ways, reflecting their unique personalities and approaches to play.

**The Captain**  
The Palmers' cat who poses a threat to the dolls, providing tension and teaching the dolls' differing perspectives on danger.

Ann M. Martin

Laura Godwin

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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content

Overview

Get ready to explore The Doll People and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Doll People Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Doll People Background

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section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Chapter 3

The Doll People Prologue-Chapter 3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-7

The Doll People Chapters 4-7 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 8-11

The Doll People Chapters 8-11 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 12-15

The Doll People Chapters 12-15 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 16-19

The Doll People Chapters 16-19 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

The Doll People Character Analysis

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Themes

The Doll People Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Doll People Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Doll People Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Doll People Essay Topics

The Doll People

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Doll People?

Reading Age

Book Details