Ruth E. Mathes wrote a book titled Dolls, Toys, and Childhood: The Mathes Collection and Philosophy, which was released in 1987. The book is a compilation of essays about dolls and toys, including their philosophy, history, and function in childhood.
Mathes argues that dolls and toys are more than just playthings; they are also important tools for learning and development. She writes that “dolls and toys are a child’s first friends, and they provide a safe and nurturing environment for exploration and discovery.”
The book is divided into three parts. The first section, “The History of Dolls and Toys,” describes how dolls and toys have changed throughout history. The meaning and importance of dolls and toys in human civilization are examined in the second section, “The Philosophy of Dolls and Toys.” The third section, “The Role of Dolls and Toys in Childhood,” goes into the advantages of doll and toy play for kids’ growth.
