About THE AUTHOR

Ann Leis was born in Fulton, New York, in 1959, the third of four daughters. Her parents, Bart and Vita Chalone, recognized her early love of dolls and often gifted them for special occasions. Ann recalls one memorable Christmas when she and her sister Trish received the new Barbie Dreamhouse accompanied by two Franci dolls and a large wardrobe, won in a raffle from the city’s Cracker Barrel Fair in 1969.  

After publishing an article for Doll News magazine, Ann went on to write a number more and eventually served as associate editor of the journal. As her interest in writing developed, she co-authored the children’s book Music of the Butterfly: A Story of Hope, a gentle introduction to the Holocaust for young children, based on a true story.

Ann became captivated by Dewees Cochran’s work from the moment she first laid eyes on the artist’s beautiful dolls. Over time, her quest to learn more about Dewees and her dolls developed into an extended, in-depth research project that has led to this most comprehensive book yet on the doll maker’s professional and private life. 

Currently a member of the United Federation of Doll Clubs, First Houston Doll Club, and Doll Collectors of America, Ann, recognized as an expert on all things Dewees, has actively participated in numerous seminars, talks, and a symposium on the artist’s work.  

Ann currently lives in Houston, Texas, with her husband. She is a registered nurse, volunteers for children’s charities, and enjoys tennis, pickleball, crafts, quilting, cooking, gardening, and traveling. She has three married children and one glorious granddaughter, who at the tender age of four is already enchanted by her grandmother’s burgeoning collection of treasured dolls.