TDmonthly's ToyFair 2006 Preview--Books Product Category

Cool Kid's Field Guide to Dinosaurs by LANGENSCHEIDT PUBLISHING GROUP

This handbook covers everything from when dinosaurs lived to when they disappeared, how they grew up to the different varieties that existed, and more. Foldout pages and flaps that lift reveal further information to make discovering facts about dinosaurs a fun and educational experience. "This unique book combines fresh, interactive design and eye-catching illustration to make an educational topic fun," Jessica Lemp, Marketing Assistant, Langenscheidt Publishing Group, told TDmonthly. Launch date: November 2009. 1/14/2010 (Price: $6.99)

A Cool Kid's Field Guide to Global Warming by LANGENSCHEIDT PUBLISHING GROUP

This handbook is designed to explain global warming in a simple-to-understand, fun-to-read way. Kids will discover how global warming affects us all, what a carbon footprint is, what greenhouse gases are, and more. Foldout pages and flaps lift to reveal further information to make discovering facts about global warming a fun and educational experience. Launch date: November 2009. 1/14/2010 (Price: $6.99)

Cool Kid's Field Guide to Weather by LANGENSCHEIDT PUBLISHING GROUP

This fold-out handbook answers kids' questions, such as, "Where do clouds come from? What is wind? Why does it rain? How are rainbows formed?" Foldout pages and flaps that lift to reveal further information are designed to make discovering facts about the weather a fun and educational experience. Launch date: November 2009. 1/14/2010 (Price: $6.99)

Lost Souls: Burning Sky by RUNNING PRESS BOOK PUBLISHERS

Jordan Weisman, co-creator of the acclaimed Cathy’s Book series, launches an interactive trilogy based on the 2012 end-of-world Mayan prophecies. Nathan Richards learns on his 13th birthday that his destiny is to be challenged by the Mayan god Kukulkan in a game that decides the fate of the human race. Read the Book - Play the Game - Save the World. "The combination of book and game board with 11 game pieces and dice engages the reader to interact with the story — as our hero plays the game, so can the reader. Play the game online in a single player mode against the computer or a two player mode against anyone anywhere in the world. The online game will also act as decoder ring where specific locations on the board will give players background fiction on the book's characters and teaser fiction about what happens in the next book," Geri DiTella, Marketing Coordinator, Running Press Book Publishers, told TDmonthly. Launch date: April 2010.
THIS PRODUCT IS NO LONGER AVAILABLE 1/14/2010 (Price: $17.95)

WJ Fantasy - My Tool Box by BABALU INC.

The denim tool belt holds a saw, hammer, screwdriver and pliers. The box also includes four illustrated board books that describe how each tool works. The box is 8.5" x 6.5" x 6.5". 1/11/2010 (Price: $19.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Robby The Blue Koala Rides the Discovery Express DVD by GIFTOFHAPPINESS MEDIA PRODUCTIONS

In Robby The Blue Koala Rides The Discovery Express, Giftofhappiness Media Productions uses fun antics and colorful animation to make learning opportunities out of entertainment. "Parents and teachers see Robby as educational programming disguised as entertainment. Kindergarten fundamentals have never been so easily accessible. But shhh! Let the kids enjoy and keep the secret between us," Giftofhappiness Owner and Founder John Lawrence told TDmonthly. 1/8/2010 (Price: $12.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

MoMA String-Along Books by CHRONICLE BOOKS FOR CHILDREN

Inspired by classic stringing bead toys, this innovative collection of 10 books in various shapes develops motor skills while introducing color, shape, and pattern in a wonderfully playful way. Children will have hours of fun reading this set as books, playing with them as blocks, or stringing them as beads. WARNING: CHOKING HAZARD—Small parts. Not for children under 3 years. ( Watch Video) 1/7/2010 (Price: $18.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

By the Sword by BOYDS MILLS PRESS

This 40-page hardcover delves into the Battle of Long Island during the Revolutionary War, as told by teacher Benjamin Tallmadge and other sources. It is written by Selena Castrovilla and illustrated by Bill Farnsworth. The book was named to the 2008 IRA Children's and Young Adults' Book Award Notable Book List. Launch date: April 2007. 1/6/2010 (Price: $17.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

The Adventures of Tommy the Tomato by Tommy the Tomato

The Adventures of Tommy the Tomato is an alphabet book geared towards ages 4-9. It follows Tommy the Tomato through his days in school where he learns from his classmates as well as his teachers. When reading "The Adventures of Tommy the Tomato", children go on an educational adventure alongside Tommy the Tomato. Throughout the book, Tommy encounters other fruits and vegetables, all of whom explain how they are beneficial to Tommy, and in the same breath, to the child reading. ( Watch Video) 12/30/2009 (Price: $9.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

SmartLab Fiber Optics Lab by SMARTLAB TOYS

Ever wondered if the light in the fridge stays on when you close the door? Fiber optics can light the way. It may sound like some supercomplicated electronic technology, but the basics are quite simple. Author Jim Becker helps kids understand what’s going on as they use the power of light to build 10 high-tech electronic projects, including a burglar alarm, an electronic rooster, and a flexible flashlight. The kit includes two preassembled workbenches (transmitter and receiver), three optical fiber rods and a connector, 26 hookup wires, two LED couplers, 12 activity cards , and a 12-panel fully illustrated booklet. "The retail feedback we have received tells us that there is not a similar product on the market," Darcy Morris, Director of Sales & Marketing, SmartLab Toys, told TDmonthly. Launch date: April 30, 2010. 12/28/2009 (Price: $19.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Little Green Money Machine Interactive Book and Storefront by Little Green Money Machine

Developed by Del Visionaries, the Little Green Money Machine is a gateway learning system designed to teach children lifelong skills, in addition to building confidence and self esteem. The book and storefront stand can be used at home, in the classroom, and with youth groups and fundraising projects. This system teaches children about money management and business, and lays the foundation to learn about entrepreneurship. The interactive book, "The Little Green Money Machine: Kids in Business Around the World," offers content, ideas and exercises to give children ages 7 to 14 the tools and know-how to run a business, set goals, and pursue their dreams. The storefront is an all-purpose business stand where children can set up actual business ventures and fundraisers and apply what they have learned in the book. It includes adjustable-height upright posts, five magnetic and dry erase banner areas for marketing and increased visibility, built-in cupholders, a built-in money tray with lock and key, a solar-powered calculator, and a storage area for marketing materials, such as brochures, fliers and business cards. ( Watch Video) 12/28/2009 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Joe and the Pirates by BOGGLENOGGIN MEDIA INC.

The award-winning Joe Rock and Friends interactive stories are now available on iPhone and iPod Touch. Featuring two languages (English and Spanish), original fun songs, 3D graphics, instant switching between languages, optional narration, and word tracking, these stories can provide a great reading experience for emerging readers (ages 3-8) and a great tool for language learners. "The multi-language features ... allow instant switching of any page between the two languages," Allan Crossley, CEO, BoggleNoggin Media Inc., told TDmonthly. Awards: 2008 Outstanding Product - iParenting Media Awards, Preferred Choice Award - Creative Child Magazine, June 2008, Editor's Choice Award - Children's Technology Review, June 2008 & Dec 2006, Recommended - Parent's Choice FOundation, March 2008. Launch date: September 2009. 12/16/2009 (Price: $2.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Baltazar and the Flying Pirates by IMMEDIUM

Baltazar has always enjoyed hearing pirate stories from his grandpa. But did the boy know he was related to the legendary scaliwag Greybeard? The Captain of the infamous Corsairs does, so Redlocks travels to recruit young Baltazar and to locate long lost treasure. But now the amusement park "Treasure Island" sits atop their buried booty! Can a young adventurer successfully lead a motley crew that includes Long John Silver, Hook, and Black Bart through this fantasy land? Take a wild ride with pirates galore to discover where X marks the spot! "This storybook combines the timeless appeal of pirates and amusement parks, which make it ideal for kids who like Pirates of the Caribbean, Pirate Legos and the Cartoon Network TV series Chowder," Amy Ma of Immedium told TDmonthly. Launch date: September 2009. 12/16/2009 (Price: $15.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Caillou - The Babysitter by CHOUETTE PUBLISHING INC.

Caillou’s parents go out, and Lisa comes to babysit. Caillou feels abandoned, but Lisa helps him overcome his distress. Ideal for little hands, this book has a padded cover and plasticized pages. Also in the series are "Potty Time" (best seller) and "Caillou Says No!" "Written with input from child psychologists, the Hand in Hand book series help children understand the new situations and feelings they are experiencing. By encouraging youngsters to identify with Caillou and using this series as a catalyst for communication, parents can defuse situations that might otherwise cause conflict in family life," Anne Paradis of Chouette Publishing told TDmonthly. Launch date: August 2009. 12/16/2009 (Price: $5.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Caillou - My Baby Album by CHOUETTE PUBLISHING INC.

This album unveils tender moments from Caillou’s first year. But once parents insert their own children’s photos behind the flaps, it becomes a lift-the-flap album where children discover their own story. Launch date: September 15, 2009. 12/16/2009 (Price: $14.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Children of the Forest by FLORIS BOOKS

The children of the forest live deep in the roots of an old pine tree. They collect wild mushrooms and blueberries and shelter under toadstools when it rains. They play with the squirrels and frogs, and when autumn comes, they collect and prepare food to see them through the long winter, until the warm spring breeze starts to blow.. Written and illustrated by Elsa Beskow, whose  picture books for children have been known and loved for over a century. ( Watch Video) 12/10/2009 (Price: $25.00) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Fancy Nancy: Explorer Extraordinaire! by HARPERCOLLINS PUBLISHERS

In this 32-page hardcover, Fancy Nancy and her Explorers' Club, which includes friend Bree, take a rather fancy look at the outdoors. They explore butterflies, flowers, trees, birds and more. The book is written by Jane O'Conner and illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser. Launch date: March 31, 2009.
— Five of 44 specialty retailers referenced the "Fancy Nancy" series when discussing best-selling books in late 2009.
— In a December 2011 survey about books, 3 out of 12 retailers told TDmonthly that Fancy Nancy books were their best sellers. Maryalice Miner, co-owner of Miner's Doll & Toy Store in Ocean Springs, Miss., told TDmonthly that, "The Fancy Nancy books have been really big." They sell a half dozen copies or more each month. 12/7/2009 (Price: $12.99)

Curious George Rides a Bike by HOUGHTON MIFFLIN HARCOURT

This 48-page paperback written by H.A. Rey tells how little Curious George aids a boy with his paper delivery route and causes quite a bit of trouble. Launch date: August 31, 1973.
— Two of 44 specialty retailers name "Curious George" when asked about best-selling books in late 2009, referencing a trend toward classic titles. 12/7/2009 (Price: $6.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

The Encyclopedia of Immaturity™ Volume 2 by KLUTZ

This book of goofy ideas and pranks includes a discussion of wedgies as well as instructions on sliding down a banister and how to send someone a toiletgram. It received a National Parenting Publications Honors Award.
— Two of 44 retailers mentioned this title when asked about best-selling books in late 2009. Jeanette Lauture, owner of Aunt Jean's Toys & Treats in Montclair, N.J., told TDmonthly her store sells about four per week of both Volumes 1 and 2.
— "We sell Klutz all day long," said Erika Evers of Dancing Bear Toys in Hendersonville, N.C., citing sales of eight Klutz books per day. "We tend to order different ones every time." 12/7/2009 (Price: $19.95)

Pinkalicious by HARPERCOLLINS PUBLISHERS

This book full of all things pink focuses on a girl who turn pink herself after eating too many cupcakes! It also teaches that it's best just to be yourself. Launch date: May 23, 2006.
— Two of 44 specialty retailers referenced the Pinkalicious series when discussing best-selling books in late 2009. "Those are good ones," Kristen Pollard of Mud Puddle Toys in Marblehead, Mass., told TDmonthly.
— In a December 2011 survey about books, three out of 12 retailers said Pinkalicious was one of their best selling titles. 12/7/2009 (Price: $17.99)

The Very Hungry Caterpillar by PENGUIN GROUP USA

This 32-page hardcover tells the classic story of the caterpillar who eats, eats and eats, and then transforms into a lovely butterfly. Launch date: October 15, 1981.
— Two of 44 specialty retailers named this as one of their best-selling books in late 2009.
— As of 8.12.10, this product had 5 out of 5 stars from 17 reviews on ToysRUs.com and was listed No. 21 in best-selling toys and games. PROS: Engaging, interactive and easy for children to understand. 12/7/2009 (Price: $21.99)

Llama Llama Misses Mama by PENGUIN GROUP USA

This 40-page hardcover tells the story of how Llama is frightened going to his first day of preschool, and wonders if Mama Llama will come back. The other kids, though, show Llama that school can be fun. Launch date: March 19, 2009.
— "What is doing well is the 'Llama Llama' books by Anna Dewdney," Rebecca Goblish, co-owner of Picayune Toys in Dunwoody, Ga., told TDmonthly when discussing best-selling titles in late 2009. She added that her store sells about a dozen "Llama Llama" books per month, with a plush llama
— Two of 44 specialty retailers commented on the popularity of this book series in fall 2009. 12/7/2009 (Price: $16.99)

Good Night Atlanta by OUR WORLD OF BOOKS LLC

Part of the "Good Night Our World" series for babies and young children, this 6" x 6" board book explores the sights of Atlanta, Ga., including the zoo, Georgia peaches, Piedmont Park, the Atlanta History Center and much more. The 32-page book has rounded corners. It is written by Adam Gamble and illustrated by Joe Veno.
— Two of 44 specialty retailers mentioned titles from this series when discussing with TDmonthly best-selling books in late 2009. 12/7/2009 (Price: $9.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Where the Wild Things Are by HARPERCOLLINS PUBLISHERS

This hardcover classic written and illustrated by Maurice Sendak follows the imaginative journey of a little boy named Max who is sent to bed without his dinner.
— Two of 44 specialty retailers named "Where the Wild Things Are" when asked about best-selling books in late 2009. Bill Sartain, co-owner of Tutoring Toy in Salt Lake City, cited sales of about 24 per month.
— Maryalice Miner, co-owner of Miner's Doll & Toy Store in Ocean Springs, Miss., told TDmonthly in a December 2011 survey that this book, along with other evergreen titles, sell well year round. 12/7/2009 (Price: $17.95)

Starlight Sailor by BAREFOOT BOOKS

Written by James Mayhew and illustrated by Jackie Morris, this hardcover book takes readers on a rhyming dreamland adventure complete with flying dragons, whales and singing mermaids. 12/3/2009 (Price: $16.99)