The Doll People Set Sail
(The Doll People #4)

This much-awaited fourth installment of the Doll People series (which sees Helquist stepping in for Brian Selznick) has the antique Doll family and the contemporary Funcrafts on a nautical adventure after the box they've been packed in is mistakenly sent to a charity in England. If being separated from their owners, Kate and Nora Palmer, isn't enough of a disaster, Nanny Doll, Dad Funcraft, and his son, Bailey, fall from a hole in the carton and disappear aboard the cargo ship. Luckily, heroines Annabelle Doll and Tiffany Funcraft are experienced at finding missing persons and quickly form a rescue party, with help from fellow passenger dolls. Once again, the shared values of Doll Power, friendship, and familial love bridge the differences between the plastic, modern Funcrafts and the fragile, ancient Dolls. In this episode, however, Tiffany Funcraft is less daring than usual, while Annabelle plays the role of risk taker, using courage and quick thinking to save the day. A rousing adventure that treats fans to thrilling action (on a miniature scale) and personable new dolls to discover. Art not seen by PW. Ages 8-12. (Oct.)

Gr 3-5--The fourth installment of "The Doll People" series is an adventure on the high seas. Annabelle Doll, her best friend, Tiffany Funcraft, and the other doll people are packed away in anticipation of their human owners, Katie and Nora's, room renovation. The box labeled "attic" is mistakenly taken with the boxes intended for charity and put on a cargo ship bound for England. In the chaos of realizing what is happening, Tiffany opens a seam in the box and Bailey, Nanny, and Dad Funcraft accidently fall through the hole. Annabelle and Tiffany lead the rescue mission as the dolls go searching for their missing relatives. Along the way, they discover other living dolls who support them and become their new friends. After much adventure and excitement, Nanny, Bailey, and Dad Funcraft are found safe and sound, the box mix up is resolved, and the dolls are sent back to their home, the Palmers house in Connecticut. Sketches of the action add to the story's enjoyment and understanding. Familiarity with the other books in the series would be helpful, but is not necessary. This is a good choice for independent readers ready to try something longer.--Kefira Phillipe, Nichols Middle School, Evanston, IL