The Storybook Collection
In the earliest years of the Simpich Character Dolls, Bob and Jan Simpich designed a handful of storybook characters—Heidi, Tom Sawyer, and Robin Hood among them. These pieces were not produced for sale; only a limited few were made and shared with local schools as teaching tools, helping children visualize the stories they were discovering for the first time.
In later years, Bob and Jan refined and expanded these designs, bringing many storybook characters into production. This page is dedicated to the Simpich family’s most whimsical collection.
If you tell me where this will live (collection page top banner vs. a longer “about” section), I can tighten it to the ideal length.
Featured Design: Cinderella
From the earliest days of the Simpich Character Doll workshop, storybook figures and literary heroes played an important role in the creative spirit of Bob and Jan Simpich. Their dolls often captured not just characters, but the feeling of classic tales — the sense of wonder, courage, and transformation at the heart of each story.
Extremely Rare | Heirloom Condition | 22 / 100 Version one was created between 1983-1989 This Peice was completed in 1985
From the earliest days of the Simpich Character Doll workshop, storybook figures and literary heroes played an important role in the creative spirit of Bob and Jan Simpich. Their dolls often captured not just characters, but the feeling of classic tales — the sense of wonder, courage, and transformation at the heart of each story.
In the mid-1980s, Jan Simpich returned to this tradition with one of her most ambitious projects: Cinderella. She sought to capture both the elegance and magic of the fairy tale while remaining true to the hand-crafted realism that defined every Simpich creation. Yet, as Jan worked through the delicate process of designing Cinderella’s gown — with its shimmering satin, lace, and intricate trim — she realized the challenge before her. Each figure would require extraordinary time and precision to reproduce faithfully.
Rather than compromise the quality or spirit of the piece, Jan chose to limit Cinderella to only 100 total editions. The result is a breathtaking figure — a portrait of grace and hope, holding the iconic glass slipper that changed her fate. Her serene expression, soft blue gown, and meticulous detailing reflect both the magic of the story and Jan’s mastery as an artist.
Later, in 2004, Jan revisited the design and created another Cinderella along with a Cinderella in Rags. These later editions were also produced in extremely limited numbers.
Today, Cinderella stands as one of the rarest and most enchanting figures in the Simpich legacy — a timeless reminder of how imagination and craftsmanship can turn even the simplest dream into something extraordinary.
Here’s how the Simpich Storybook Collection started!
Browse the Simpich Storybook Collection
Condition: Excellent
Step into the enchanting world of fairy tales with the Hansel and Gretel Storybook Collection from Simpich Character Dolls. For the first time ever, we’re thrilled to offer this complete collection on our site, bringing the timeless Grimm Brothers' classic to life.
This beautifully crafted set features the iconic Gingerbread House, adorned with whimsical candy details, alongside the menacing Witch, complete with her broom and the key to her ominous oven. No Hansel and Gretel story would be complete without the brave siblings themselves – Hansel and Gretel – each clutching candy treasures, ready to outsmart the Witch.
Every piece in this collection showcases Simpich’s exquisite artistry, capturing the magic, mischief, and wonder of the beloved tale. Perfect for collectors, storytellers, or anyone who cherishes the charm of classic fairy tales.
Bring the magic of Hansel and Gretel into your home today with this extraordinary figurine set!
Extremely Rare | Heirloom Condition | 22 / 100 Version one was created between 1983-1989 This Peice was completed in 1985
From the earliest days of the Simpich Character Doll workshop, storybook figures and literary heroes played an important role in the creative spirit of Bob and Jan Simpich. Their dolls often captured not just characters, but the feeling of classic tales — the sense of wonder, courage, and transformation at the heart of each story.
In the mid-1980s, Jan Simpich returned to this tradition with one of her most ambitious projects: Cinderella. She sought to capture both the elegance and magic of the fairy tale while remaining true to the hand-crafted realism that defined every Simpich creation. Yet, as Jan worked through the delicate process of designing Cinderella’s gown — with its shimmering satin, lace, and intricate trim — she realized the challenge before her. Each figure would require extraordinary time and precision to reproduce faithfully.
Rather than compromise the quality or spirit of the piece, Jan chose to limit Cinderella to only 100 total editions. The result is a breathtaking figure — a portrait of grace and hope, holding the iconic glass slipper that changed her fate. Her serene expression, soft blue gown, and meticulous detailing reflect both the magic of the story and Jan’s mastery as an artist.
Later, in 2004, Jan revisited the design and created another Cinderella along with a Cinderella in Rags. These later editions were also produced in extremely limited numbers.
Today, Cinderella stands as one of the rarest and most enchanting figures in the Simpich legacy — a timeless reminder of how imagination and craftsmanship can turn even the simplest dream into something extraordinary.
Condition: Pristine
Relive the timeless charm of the beloved classic novel Heidi with this beautifully handcrafted Simpich Character Doll. Capturing the essence of the spirited little girl and her alpine adventures, this collectible piece brings Heidi to life in a way that fans of the story will cherish.
Dressed in a charming, hand-sewn traditional outfit inspired by the Swiss Alps, Heidi is lovingly detailed, from her sweet expression to her braided hair. No depiction of Heidi would be complete without her loyal companion—a playful, hand-crafted goat that embodies the pastoral beauty of her mountain home. Together, they tell the heartwarming tale of Heidi and her loving relationship with her grandfather and their idyllic life in the Alps.
This enchanting Simpich Doll is a perfect keepsake for literary fans, collectors, or anyone touched by Heidi's story of love, resilience, and joy.
Features:
Handcrafted with intricate detailing, inspired by the classic Heidi novel.
Heidi wears a traditional, hand-sewn Alpine outfit.
Includes a meticulously crafted goat companion, adding charm and authenticity.
A collectible treasure for fans of classic literature and Simpich artistry.
Celebrate the enduring magic of Heidi with this delightful character doll—a heartwarming reminder of the power of love and connection.
Step into the world of Arthur Conan Doyle’s legendary detective with this impeccably crafted Simpich Character Doll of Sherlock Holmes. From his iconic deerstalker hat to freshly polished shoes, every detail captures the essence of Holmes’ sharp intellect and timeless style.
His hand-tailored grey wool jacket adds a touch of authentic sophistication, perfectly suited to the detective’s discerning character. A delicate curl of smoke rises from his classic pipe, adding a dynamic touch that brings this figure vividly to life.
With a poised stance and unmistakable presence, this piece leaps off the page and into your home, making it a perfect addition for fans and collectors alike.
Whether displayed in a study or as part of a broader collection, this Sherlock Holmes doll embodies mystery, intelligence, and the spirit of one of literature’s most enduring characters.
Edition: 251 of 500 | Condition: Pristine | Extremely Rare
Inspired by Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, Ichabod Crane is one of the most literary and expressive figures ever created by the Simpich workshop—and a standout example of the studio’s late-1980s character work.
Introduced in 1988, this limited-edition piece captures Ichabod in a moment of quiet absorption, perched atop his horse as he reads, blissfully unaware of the looming folklore that surrounds his tale. The composition is unmistakably Simpich: narrative-driven, slightly whimsical, and rich with motion and personality.
The sculpting is exceptionally detailed, from Ichabod’s elongated features and thoughtful expression to the careful posture of the horse beneath him. His period attire—complete with tricorn hat, tailored coat, and riding satchel—is meticulously hand-painted in layered, time-worn tones. The horse, equally expressive, adds depth and movement to the piece, grounding the scene while reinforcing the sense of journey and story.
As with all true Simpich Character Dolls, each figure was hand-sculpted, hand-painted, and individually finished, ensuring subtle variations that make every example unique. The wooden base provides stability while framing the figure as a true display piece rather than a simple figurine.
Today, pristine examples are increasingly difficult to find, especially with strong color, clean surfaces, and intact detailing.
A remarkable piece for collectors of Simpich literature-inspired designs, early limited editions, or classic American folklore—Ichabod Crane remains as charming and distinctive now as when he first rode into the Simpich catalog.
Conditions: Excellent
This exquisite sculpted porcelain piece brings Norman Rockwell’s iconic Painting the Fence to life, capturing the charm and mischief of Tom Sawyer. Inspired by Rockwell’s beloved illustration, the scene showcases Tom with a brush in hand, cleverly enlisting others to do his work while he enjoys the moment. The fine sculpting and hand-painted details reflect the nostalgia and warmth of classic Americana, making this a treasured collectible for fans of Rockwell, Twain, and timeless storytelling.
Condition: Pristine
Together, Pinocchio and Geppetto showcase the timeless bond of family and the magic of storytelling. Perfect for collectors and fans of the classic tale, this enchanting pair will bring joy and nostalgia to your holiday decor. Add Pinocchio and Geppetto to your collection today and celebrate the wonder of imagination!
Storybook Series | Handcrafted Detail | A Timeless Simpich Favorite
Step into the pages of a beloved classic with this enchanting Little Red Riding Hood, brought to life with all the character and charm of the Simpich Studios’ legendary craftsmanship.
Wearing her iconic bright red cloak, she carries a woven basket filled with goodies, delicately arranged with berries and a gingham cloth — on her way to Grandma’s house, no doubt. Her blue smocked dress with burgundy accents, lace-up boots, and expressive face showcase the signature Simpich attention to fine detail, storytelling, and textile artistry.
Part of the highly sought-after Simpich Storybook Series, this piece evokes the innocence and mystery of fairytales told through generations. A true collectible, she brings warmth, nostalgia, and a hint of adventure to any display.
Offered in Pristine condition, this figure is a rare opportunity to own one of the studio’s most whimsical and recognizable literary creations — perfect for both collectors and lovers of classic children's tales.
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Get in touch with Toby Simpich
Whether you trying to choose which piece would be best to start with or you’re trying to find that final piece to complete your collection reach out using this form! This Collection can be one of the hardest to complete, and I would love to make that process easier for you!