Discovering the Troll

As a kid in the 1960s, I hated Barbie (the doll). Being overweight and average in appearance, I could not relate to her. Her physical attributes were of porno proportions. She had a tight prudish mouth, a rigid hair style and ridiculously tiny feet. In my contempt, I would pull the head of my little sister’s Barbie off and replace it with the head of a Little Kiddle – nearly wetting myself from laughter at the discrepancy!

Then I discovered the troll doll. Now, there was a doll I could relate to! It was a little chubby, like me. My troll had a broad warm smile and unkempt, long, soft hair. Even the wide feet of the doll (with its stubby toes) were identical to mine. The card that came with my troll, explaining its magic and the good luck it would bring, was just icing on the cake . . .