An American Icon in Puerto Rico: Barbie, Girlhood, and Colonialism at Play

An American Icon in Puerto Rico explores the impact of Barbie dolls on femininity, body image, and cultural identity among multigenerational Puerto Rican women and girls. The book reveals the emotional attachment these women and girls have with the doll, highlighting how it shapes their perceptions of femininity, body image, race, and national identity. Through personal narratives and sociocultural analysis, author Emily R. Aguiló-Pérez encourages readers to reflect on their own relationships with Barbie and promotes a more inclusive understanding of beauty, body image, and self-expression.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 09 June 2023
Publisher: Berghahn Books

Since her debut in 1959, Barbie has transcended boundaries and transformed into a global symbol of femininity, captivating the imaginations of girls all around the world. An American Icon in Puerto Rico offers a captivating study of that iconic influence by focusing on a group of multigenerational Puerto Rican women and girls. Through personal narratives and insights, author Emily R. Aguiló-Pérez unveils the emotional attachment that these women and girls have formed with the doll during their formative years. This connection serves as a powerful lens to explore the intricate relationships girls have with their Barbie dolls and the complex role Barbie plays in shaping their identities.

Aguiló-Pérez boldly confronts the challenges and contradictions that arise, offering a compelling analysis of how playing with Barbie dolls can impact a girl's perception of femininity, body image, race, and even national identity. Through these nuanced explorations, she unearths the potential pitfalls of these influences, encouraging readers to reflect on their own relationships with the iconic doll. By weaving together personal anecdotes, historical context, and sociocultural analysis, Aguiló-Pérez masterfully illustrates how these women and girls navigate the diverse landscapes of femininity, body image, and cultural identity, with Barbie serving as both a facilitator and a reflection of their growth. In doing so, she redefines the significance of Barbie in the lives of Puerto Rican women and girls, prompting readers from all around the world to reevaluate their perceptions of femininity and embrace a more inclusive and diverse understanding of beauty and identity.

ISBN-13: 9781805391111