In 1927, Japan sent 58 dolls to America as a gesture of good will. Today, 45 of the dolls are accounted for, but 13 remain missing. This story is told from the per - spective of the dolls, giving readers an imaginary glimpse into their world

Children's fiction (girls).Partially written from the point of vew of the 3-ft-tall friendship dolls given to America by Japan in 1927 (in thanks of the American dolls given to Japan). Maybe a 6-year-old might be interested in hearing this story, but after sampling the first few chapters, I am not. ( )

This is historical fiction novel is written in an intriguing way, alternating points of view between various characters. This could be confusing but Larson makes it work. The benefit is getting to know several children in different circumstances, with the Japanese friendship doll providing continuity and her own perspective. I had to pop out of the story and go research the real friendship dolls out of curiosity. That was fun. This book will especially appeal to young girls, I think. And as a mom of two girls, I want to say that I appreciate how Larson writes for young readers without giving in to what seems like a trend toward edgy content. There's no need for it in this story and it's a nice break from all of the novels bombarding teens that are pushing the boundaries of what's appropriate. ( )

Not so much dolls, or Japan, but just vignettes of girls facing challenges who learn wisdom when Miss Kanagawa 'speaks' to them.?á Best for fans of historical fiction.?á I prefer Hitty, Her First Hundred Years.?á But I do like the quote Larson used from Orson Welles: If you want a happy ending, that depends, of course, on where you stop your story."?á Includes pretty good author's notes." ( )

A clever and touching story about how a Japanese "Amabssador of Friendship" doll touches the lives young American girls who encounter her during the Great Depression. ( )