Produced for only one year in the '70s, Blythe is a moony waif of a doll coveted by a growing group of devoted fans. Photographer Gina Garan fell to Blythe's charms and unusual looks years ago and has shot her in settings around the world, from Greece to Soho to Hooters. Hilarious, mesmerizing, and just a little spooky, This Is Blythe is the result of Garan's offbeat passion and a photography book like no other. Here's mod Blythe pacing through an art gallery; a pensive Blythe in a tiny blue fur parka, the sun flaring orange behind her; Blythe emerging from a block of ice. Is that Blythe telling her Christmas wishes to Santa Claus? Like stills for a film that hasn't happened (yet?), these undeniably beautiful photographs create an entire world from each flawless frame. A no-explanation-necessary gift for that special someone, This Is Blythe will enchant fans of witty photography and pop culture with a taste for the unexpected.
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Book Description
Editorial Reviews
About the Author
Gina Garan a New York-based photographer and video producer, met Blythe by chance. She owns all of Blythe's original outfits, and lovingly customizes her clothing and hair.
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Customer Reviews
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
16 of 16 people found the following review helpful
Format:Paperback
If a fun collection of photos featuring one of the most kitschy-cool odd-ball dolls wasn't enough, THIS IS BLYTHE is inspiring. The way Gina Garan shoots photos of her big eyed dolls they definitely seem to have personalities of their own. With more spark than most super-models, and more spunk than a whole aisle of Gen-X Barbie dolls! Photographs of this elusive doll from the 1970's would be interesting enough on their own, but with the unexpected locations (like in the mouth of a tiger at the Siegfried and Roy monument, or posing au naturel in front of Hooters) combined with the quirky subject matter (Blythe's the only doll I've heard of that can change her eye color from pink to orange with the pull of a string). Prude, sassy, sophisticated, glamorous, edgy, shy, apprehensive, innocent- are all conveyed not only by this dolls ability to change eye color and position. It is done with with the fabulous costumes, settings, and Gina's ability to almost animate Blythe with her unique style of photography. The book is interesting and whimsical, colorful and humorous. It has a very arty/innovative feel and a super-slick layout, but doesn't ever lose touch with the sweet and simple feeling that this girl is just playing with her dolls. Anyone who loves books about pop-culture, has an affinity for the unusual, appreciates dolls, or is simply looking for a book that is one-of-a-kind and inscrutably appealing,,, this is it! After flipping through the the book again and again, I kept remembering something from the last line of the introduction, and how it really holds true. It's that,"Blythe reminds you to embrace the rare and unique", qualities of who we are-- and that's exactly why this book is a gem!
5 of 5 people found the following review helpful
By Mike
Format:Paperback
Blythe is a wonderful doll, with a personality all her own. Blythe has been caputured in these photos beautifully by Gina Garan! Check out one of Gina's lovely photobooks, like this one "This is Blythe", or try "Dear Blythe Love Gina" or "Dear Blythe, Love Gina II"
For 30 years, Blythe was like a forgotten child, that no one seemed to remember. Gina saw in Blythe what no one else did... a quirky, yet charming inner beauty, and a distinct personality.
Once you own a Blythe doll, you will find that she somehow becomes your obesssion!!
5 of 5 people found the following review helpful
Format:Paperback
This lil photography book is beautiful and haunting. The colors are wonderful (and reminicent of David LaChapelle or John Waters), and little Blythe's beautifully color-changing eyes set the mood of each photo.
Now i just wish i had a Blythe doll myself...
Most Recent Customer Reviews
5.0 out of 5 stars
Fabulous!
I love this book. I love to flip through the pages, wondering where Blythe will end up next. I love the way she seems to be a real fashion model -she's truly brought to life.
Published 3 days ago by Katie0730
4.0 out of 5 stars
except 2 photographies with
"planchettes OUIJA" they aren't toys !!! they may be dangerous, i am sorry because of these two photographies, i try to sell it again
dm
dm
Published 4 months ago by danyelle Bidault Maly
5.0 out of 5 stars
The form and substance of "This is Blythe"
This little paperback book is a must for all enthusiastic fans of Blythe as a social phenomenon, and for those who are interested in the history of photography. Read more
Published 10 months ago by Allen Redman
1.0 out of 5 stars
Extremely Unimpressive
I am a Blythe lover, and was quite excited to receive this book as a gift. While I feel sort of bad giving a bad review to a gift, I was beyond stunned that this book had only... Read more
Published 21 months ago by Chi Shopper
5.0 out of 5 stars
Quirky Nostalgia
I picked this book up at the San Francisco MOMA a few years ago. I saw it and immediately began to wonder, "What exactly did I do with my old Blythe doll"? Read more
Published on June 23, 2008 by Legend in My Own Mind
5.0 out of 5 stars
Sweet little book
I'm a collector and I love having a book with photos of Blythe that I can study for the endless possibilities the doll offers for dressing and customizing.
Published on March 8, 2007 by NoSheep
5.0 out of 5 stars
Blythe is BEAUTIFUL...
I am several years (almost 5 to be exact) reviewing this book but after seeing a few of Gina's Blythe pics online, I ordered this book and ever since I've been hooked! BIG TIME. Read more
Published on January 2, 2006 by Mom, Me.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Blythe!
Oh my gosh I love Blythe! She is the best doll ever. in this book, gina garan photographs Blythe so well that the dolls actually look real. Read more
Published on July 4, 2005
5.0 out of 5 stars
Ditto, it's a gorgeous, quirky-cute book! And..
..I just had to add that I picked this up not knowing that my 30-year quest for a beloved doll that was taken from me was about to end until I turned to the page (near the end)... Read more
Published on September 2, 2004 by Pom088
5.0 out of 5 stars
Blythe is awsome!
Garan's photographs are unbelievable! She makes Blythe look real. A really great book! My husband purchased this book for me because I collect dolls and now she is at the top of my... Read more
Published on September 17, 2002
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