Barbie and the Mattel Empire: The Unauthorized Story of the World's Most Famous Doll

A Fascinating Look at the History of Barbie

Barbie is one of the most iconic toys in the world, and her story is just as fascinating as her popularity. In this unauthorized biography, Robin Gerber tells the inside story of Barbie and the Mattel empire, from her humble beginnings as a paper doll to her rise to global superstardom.

The Creation of Barbie

Barbie was created in 1959 by Ruth Handler, a co-founder of Mattel. Handler was inspired by her own daughter, Barbara, who loved to play with paper dolls. She realized that there was a market for a three-dimensional doll that girls could dress up and style, and Barbie was born.

The Early Years

Barbie quickly became a hit, and Mattel struggled to keep up with demand. In the early years, Barbie was sold in a variety of different outfits and accessories, and she quickly became a fashion icon. She also starred in a number of animated films and television shows, which helped to increase her popularity even further.

The Challenges of Success

As Barbie's popularity grew, so did the challenges that Mattel faced. The company was constantly under fire from critics who accused Barbie of promoting unrealistic body ideals and materialism. Mattel also faced competition from other toy companies, who were eager to cash in on Barbie's success.

The Evolution of Barbie

Despite the challenges, Barbie has continued to thrive. Over the years, she has been updated and changed to reflect the changing times. She has been given a more diverse range of body types, skin tones, and hair colors, and she has also been given more career options.

Barbie Today

Today, Barbie is still going strong. She is sold in over 150 countries and has generated billions of dollars in revenue for Mattel. She is a cultural icon, and she continues to inspire girls all over the world.

Why You Should Read This Book

If you are a fan of Barbie, or if you are simply interested in the history of toys, then this book is a must-read. It is a fascinating look at the creation and evolution of one of the most iconic toys in the world.

Order Your Copy Today!

Barbie and the Mattel Empire is available now. Order your copy today and learn the inside story of the world's most famous doll.