It begins for Tom Fletcher with what looks like a very bloody accident in a farm machinery showroom, and reaches back into the past - his own and that of the local police force - before slamming into the present with all the force of the most up-to-date criminal power in the world. Crackling with secrets and surprises, packed with haunting landscapes and haunted characters, freighted with the hot, thundery atmosphere of a Cambridge summer and the inevitable paying-out of past betrayals, CORN DOLLS marks the arrival of a major new crime talent.

Examines a variety of dolls throughout the world, discussing how they have been used at different times and how they reflect the cultures that created them.

The first comprehensive illustrated book on how to make colorful corn shuck dolls is finally here! Author Anne Freels is sharing her techniques after more than three decades of crafting and selling these entrancing dolls worldwide. She is known for her colorful and contemporary flair on a traditional Appalachian craft, and her work is highly collectible as both traditional and folk-art. The book contains over 200 full-color illustrations and step-by-step instructions on how to make two different styles of a traditional corn shuck doll with, of course, Anne's signature colorful style. Plus, readers receive lots of practical advice, as well as suggestions on how to personalize the dolls so their own creativity shines through. For anyone with a love of folk art and a desire to create, this book will be a treasured addition to their library.

MaryAnn is an ordinary nine-year-old country girl. She's growing up in the world while looking for a unique place in her developing environment. Having someone her age to relate to is her constant yearning, a person who can enjoy and share their innocence without question. Bonding and trust are most important at this age. Soon she begins experiencing a true friendship with a boy named Samson Ray. They are soul mates living only to enjoy the enchanted life as children. A tragedy happens to MaryAnn's family, and they eventually moved away. Her world changes, and she's not equipped to decipher the transformations. As life happens, they are separated and time becomes unpredictable and heartbreaking for her. In a new atmosphere that is opposite from the life that she knows, unsettling feelings try to dominate her but she always finds the hope of overcoming it all by seeing her best friend again. Her happy place only exists while daydreaming about her best friend and their time frolicking through their cornfield. Those wonderful thoughts keep her making another step into surviving the new life that she has been hurled into. MaryAnn is young and innocent, experiencing her turmoil life while trying unselfishly to hide her unhappiness.

Corn Dollies have played a significant part in rural folklore all over the world. This book explores some of the ancient myths behind the making of straw figures, such as the belief that making offerings to the gods would ensure a plentiful harvest. Key techniques of straw plaiting are explained and illustrated, and many of the traditional designs of the dolly, as well as some modern examples, are described.

Caught and injured in Pa' bear trap, an Indian and his daughter are forced to stay with pioneer family, where hatred finally gives way to friendship due to young Mary and her cornhusk doll.