Call Me Ken: The First Ever Monograph on Barbies Other Half
By (Author) Massimiliano Capella
Translated by Antony Shugaar
Abrams
Abrams
25th September 2025
United States
General
Non Fiction
Popular culture
Antiques, vintage and collectables: toys, games, dolls and models
Hardback
240
Width 251mm, Height 321mm
One of the worlds most lovable sidekicks returns
Kenneth Carson is so much more than just a boyfriend. He has always been a mirror of his timesometimes innovative, sometimes conservative, sometimes a feminist icon, and often a symbol of gay culture. Through every reinvention, he has reflected changing ideals, aesthetics, and social movements.
This is the very first book entirely dedicated to Ken, tracing his evolution from his debut in 1961 to Ryan Goslings unforgettable portrayal in the 2023 blockbuster movie. This official and comprehensive book offers exclusive behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the designers and creatives who shaped Kens history. Featuring never-before-seen images straight from the Mattel archives, it is an essential volume for collectors, pop culture enthusiasts, and anyone fascinated by the enduring charm of Barbies iconic counterpart.
Author, curator, and museum director Massimiliano Capella explores the relationship between visual arts and fashion, creating unprecedented events that combine clothes and costumes with works of art.