Across the other pond, part 1: introduction to a new series

Welcome to a new series that I've been putting together for awhile.  I have in my midst a small but growing number of dolls that are available abroad.  It's not going to be Sindy; I've got her planned for a Throwback Thursday post.  No, this is for dolls available across the OTHER pond, better known as the Pacific Ocean.  Most of the ones I've currently got are Japanese, while one represents China.  These dolls are for the most part very different from what Americans have, but one thing is alive and well in both the east and the west.  Here's my first five dolls, and four of them have something in common:  pink clothes.

That's a lot of pink.  Mami's the only one who doesn't wear it, and if I redress her she can be a little flamingo too. 

My fondness for these dolls grew from my love of things that are a little out of the ordinary.  Being born and raised here in the States, I've grown to see Barbie's blonde hair and impossibly pretty face as "ordinary."  I'll glance at the shelves, think "Oh, another pretty Barbie," and move on.  I didn't know what sort of dolls the Japanese and Chinese played with until I saw some Bandai Barbies in an old issue of Barbie Bazaar.  The dolls lacked the ridiculous beauty that Barbie possesses.  Instead of being beautiful, these dolls focused heavily on the cute factor.  As I start reviewing these you'll see what I mean by that.

Stay tuned for reviews of these unusual creatures.  While you wait, check out Miss Emily's Kurhn dolls.  She has a play doll and one that's more intended for collectors. 

Much love,
RagingMoon1987