Reviews and Stockists

Clare Longrigg, Deputy Editor, Psychologies

“My daughter and I both loved reading Matilda’s Secret – it’s a great page-turner, a gripping read, as Mattie and her cousin Katherine get sucked into the dirty, dangerous world of court politics. I learned a lot about Henry’s wives, my daughter aged 9 learned about Tudor lifestyles, and the dramatic difference between rich and poor...  There was wonderful colour and historical detail that inspired us to visit Hampton Court and re-imagine the places where secret trysts and dances took place. Mattie’s slow realisation of the destruction of the monasteries and devastation of local communities under Henry’s reign was very well described without reading like a history lesson.”

Ashlyn Gibson, founder Olive loves Alfie

“I really that is think that it is a unique concept that deserves to be given some attention.  The dolls are created with historical reference giving older children the opportunity to feel more “grown up” but still enjoy being exactly what they are – young girls.  Each doll features in her own novel set in different eras of the most exciting times in English history, encouraging children to explore the past, while the keepsake books bring the character’s world to life with themed activities and adventures.”

Cate O’Neill, founder of Bambolina

'Matilda the doll, is divine....Matilda has a distinctive face that reflects the character from Matilda's Secret. She has inset eyes with real eyelashes, healthy rosy cheeks and a handpainted mouth...What I think is really amazing about this lovely doll though are her clothes.'

Articles

	'Matilda instantly impresses with her build quality and appealing features. The excellent extra outfits, including a masked ballgown, velvet cloak and white cotton night shift, add to the play value and will be tempting follow-up purchases. Matilda has the potential to become a much-loved toy for years and should herald the launch of a highly successful line of dolls.'
	'Inspired by her own daughter, Frances Cain has created A Girl for All Time®: beautifully crafted historical dolls, novels and customizable activity books that encourage imaginative play for girls aged eight and over."
	'The historically inspired costumes have been painstakingly researched and then re-interpreted to appeal to today's fashion-conscious girls. The luxurious velvets, silk-taffetas and extravagant trims appeal to children as well as collectors. A Girl for All Time® offers a unique world of imaginative play that encourages creativity and individuality.'