Many of our new books are beautiful. In fact, that’s the norm in the Arts Department at Central. But, from time to time, we get bizarre and goofy too and that’s a lot of fun.

Susie Says is an adult picture book by photographer and doll collector Gina Garan. Garan takes a 70’s fashion doll, “Susie Sad Eyes”, dresses her up – and down – and takes her on the town. Or to the beach, the park and the mountains. Mostly it’s urban Susie; but some of her streets are mean ones.

At times she’s ravishing with glamorous outfits, big hair and makeup. She has outings with cute friends to happy places with sunny skies. Other times she’s wasted and hung over. But she’s never short of pop philosophy.

The words of wisdom come from performer Justin Vivian Bond who supplies Susie with a voice to suit the outfits and the setting. Susie’s outlook ranges from cheery and optimistic to wistful and gloomy whenever she trips over life's hard truths. Her impressive mood swings are a large part of the appeal.

Garan has made a career out of vintage fashion dolls and has collaborated on the design and production of several new ones. If you enjoy Susie, check out Blythe.

-Jane