Some people love Barbie and some people hate Barbie. But most people can agree that Barbie is as American as apple pie and super iconic to our culture.This book shares how Ruth Handler and her husband, along with a few partners, came to form the now notorious toy company Mattel. As the company grew, Ruth saw a great need for a different kind of doll for girls. Initially she was told it was impossible. Impossible, was not in Ruth's vocabulary and she persisted. Years later, the first Barbie was introduced and ever since then she has caused a great debate about her looks, her careers and her popularity. The author does a great job in presenting both sides of the argument and leaves it to you to decide for yourself. Is Barbie just a doll or does she represent an unattainable goal for little girls everywhere? Does Barbie encourage girls to be all that they could be or is she a "terrible role-model?"