UGLY DOLLS the Naber Kids Story

When Harald Naber left Germany in 1967 to seek adventure in Alaska, he had no idea what the future held for him. His first job, skinning wolves in the basement of Jonas Brothers, a wildlife museum and retail store in Anchorage, started him on a journey that continues today. How does a wolf skinner become a world famous doll maker? It perhaps surprised Harald more than anyone. UGLY DOLLS the Naber Kids Story tells Harald’s story, in his own words and pictures. In 1970, Harald carved what he called “the ugliest thing you have ever laid your eyes on” out of a 4x4 from the local builders’ supply and covered it in reindeer fur. The ugly doll, “Big Nuni,” was put on consignment at a store in Anchorage, and sold the first day. He made more dolls and they kept selling. Many dolls and other characters later, he and his wife Bette Jo sold their doll company and moved to Florida to try their hand at running a hotel. Harald and Bette Jo returned to Alaska in 1979 and more dolls and characters were created. Then, in 1984, Harald carved the first Naber Kids in an old trapper’s cabin in Homer, Alaska. They weren’t conventional dolls, they had attitude and personality. And, many people called them ugly! Since that time, Harald’s talent as a master carver has been acknowledged by collectors and his dolls have made their way into homes and collections around the world. UGLY DOLLS the Naber Kids Story is the only book written about Harald Naber and his Naber Kids. Hundreds of photographs are included with a comprehensive listing of his creations from 1970 through 2011 along with a peek into the future. UGLY DOLLS the Naber Kids Story is a collaborative effort between Harald Naber and Pat Gaudette, author of books including Sparky the AIBO: Robot Dogs & Other Robotic Pets, and How To Survive Your Husband’s Midlife Crisis. Read more