Toys and Games Books

This book contains stunningly beautiful pictures of japanese chogokin (=die cast metal) toys from the 1970's and 80's. Many of the toys are quite rare and hard to find pictures of (like toys made by Takatoku, Nomura, Marushin and Nakajima), even in Internet times. Highly recommended!

In addition to Tim Brisko's incredible photography, Matt Alt and Robert Duban provide a brief history of Japanese toys that explains how these toys fit into the grand scheme of things. Recommended!

I bought this book for my husband because he's obsessed with transforming robots. He squealed when he read it. The photography is wonderful and it is like a history book for the ultimate transforming robot fan.

Hi, this is hubby James writing this review...

I just got SUPER #1 ROBOT and it totally rocks. As much as I thought I knew about J-bots, this really showed how much I didn't know. Even if you are well-versed in "super robots" and anime mecha, expect to be surprised by some really far-out machines you've never seen, from shows you've never heard of (but wish you had)!

The photos are wonderful, shot from a proper low perspective, giving these tiny giants their respect. They look like huge works of art here, which in some ways, they truly are. Great work! I am looking forward to Alt's next book very eagerly.

It's about time an American book in english came out on this subject, authored by people who know what they're talking about and thankfully NOT including tin and wind-up robots from the 60s and earlier. This little paperback is what chogokin collectors would humorously refer to as "robot porn." It's a glossy, high-quality picture book that causes salivation and drooling with the turn of every page. Unfortunately it is by no means a complete encyclopedic manual for all toys diecast during the 70s and 80s, but that can't be expected, considering such an undertaking would produce a book (or morelike a series of books) far heftier than this little paperback. Since that expectation is unreasonable, it is entirely forgivable since this little tome covers quite a chunk of the chogokin, vinyl and plastic market, and a nice variety, as well.

First off the book construction is sweet - small and easily handled, it's like a mini coffeetable book with a glossy softcover. I wasn't expecting such a nicely made little book. There is minimal chitchat and all the talent is poured into the photography of the most mint-looking chogokin robots I have ever seen. I think the thing that I was most tickled about was there was a picture of a mint Tetsujin 28 in the front of the book, and a beat up, played-with, broken and paintchipped version of the same robot in the back of the book. The wear on the used robot shows more as a sign of how much that toy was loved, not abused, and anyone who loves collecting chogokin, I think, would get the same tingly warm feeling looking at that beat Tetsujin 28 as the shiny minty one.

There are a few vinyl robots included in the line-up, and I could think of quite a few chogokin that were left out that could've taken up the pages of the vinyls, as I'm not much of a vinyl collector myself; vinyls are a whole other collector market and I can see why they were included in the book, but then again, I would've preferred that they weren't. Vinyls were usually monsters, but the ones that depict robots were the ones focussed on. All in all they don't take up a lot of space. Also the book is an almost even mix between the comical/humorous chogokin like Robocon and Robodachi and the more serious robot gladiators and team robots like the Godaikins; again these are (more or less) two different collector markets and not everyone collects both. As well, there are some Giant Machinders included, which is not even a scratch on the surface for them since there are quite literally hundreds if not more to collect in that category, but this book is really not meant to be a catalogued record of every robot ever made. Even though one will be able to think of some robots that were left out, all the major ones were included. The only complaint I have is that a lot of them are shown not holding a weapon, when many of them are known for their specific or characteristic weapon(s). Some are shown with a weapon, like Garbin, but too many are just robots standing weaponless. Again, though, this book isn't meant to be an official catalogue, so don't expect accessories to be featured.

If you want lists and cataloging of every robot ever made during the 70s and 80s, there are plenty of online sites that attempt to accomplish such a massive undertaking. But if you want to flip through a nice hefty little book just to get the tingly warm feeling of joy gazing upon the robots of your childhood, this book is totally worth it. It's a little window peephole into the past, but man is it worth peeping.

THIS IS A KEEPER... great price guide. Better yet a great read

Exceptional job from cover to cover. A great tribute to the Legend of Roy, Dale, Trigger, Gabby, Pat, Bullet and the legacy that they left us. From Chapter 1 to 21, through the 1,000 plus colored photos of incredible memorabilia, it is unquestionably the best of the best Roy Rogers collector guides published. Thanks, Ron Lenius, for your tremendous effort and wonderful contribution. Happy Trails.

Brand new, year 2001, 208 page book with more than 1,000 full color sharp photos. Current values are shown. This book includes plenty of information and photos regarding Roy Rogers, Dale Evens, Gabby Hayes, Trigger, and Bullet. There is a lot of informative text, and item descriptions are very good. An interview with Roy Rogers Jr. is included, and chapters on advertising and premiums, autographs, badges, buttons, jewelry, books, clocks and watches, club memorabilia, magazines, toys, displays, and much, much more. A delightful, useful book, highly recommended.

This book definately lives up to its name, "The Ultimate Roy Rogers Collection" and is an absolute "must have" for all collectors of Roy Rogers, Dale Evans, Gabby Hayes, Trigger & Bullet memorabilia.

208 pages of rare and vintage collectables, more than 1,000 color photos, item descriptions and pricing information as well as a special interview with Dusty, Roy & Dale's son.

Ron Lenius displays exceptional overall quality and first class presentation throughout this book.

Happy Trails, Ron Lenius, and Thank You.

Hey I think your book absolutly rocks!
I loved looking at all the interesting old things that were around when my mom was younger. All the colorful pages, and pictures really grabbed my attention while looking through the book. I loved seeing all the different prices for all the different items you have in your book. It really makes me see that old things really do have value. Even if you don't know much about Roy Rogers, this book takes you through his life so that you will have a better understanding of him and who he was.
I'm 13 so I don't really like to take the time to look through a book and read it from cover to cover. But this book really interested me with it's humor, pictures, facts, and stories.
If you are at all interested in learning, studying, or collecting Roy Roger things I strongly suggest that you read through this book. It will greatly help you to know what Roy Roger things are valuable.
*Kristel*

Easy to learn, fast play, and compact -- play on any flat table. Probably best with 3 or more players but fine with 2. Basically uses the exact same part of your mind as scrabble but has is faster, more intense and also more complex.

The tiles are acceptable but they could be a little nicer. And it would be nice if they gave you a bag for the tiles -- the tube is fairly easy to carry around but a small bag would make this game even easier to bring along on trips.

Lots of fun and well worth having in the house.

Very Fun! If you like word play, try this fun and challenging game. It's compact packaging makes it a great game to take on vacation. My 10 year old daughter thought it was too much thinking for summer time, but the adults and other kids really got into it. It can be played at several levels depending on players sensibilities, from a "learning" mode to cutthroat. I highly recommend it.

I was in an Airport in Vermont waiting for 3 hours for my next flight home when I first played this game! It is perfect to carry around in your bag. IT's light, and tons of fun! It not only makes you think fast, you also have to have fast reflexes to snatch the word! Love this game! It can be played with lots of people or just two!

This game is great -- easy to learn, and moves much faster than scrabble! Much more engaging, as everyone has to pay attention all the time. We gave it to our parents for Christmas, and the family became instant addicts.

This is a clever new word game which is simple yet incredibly addictive. My husband and I play this game almost every night. It is cleverly packaged and takes up little room, so we keep it accessible on the kitchen table and consequently, play often.

It has a simple premise and scoring method, is fun for 2 or more players, and keeps all players involved in the game. It takes little time to play one game, so it's a great option for after dinner. It only takes a game or two for new players to become very competitive with experienced players, and thus is great for mixed groups. Good spelling is a help, as is a good vocabulary, but even those skills are less important than being able to track the words and letters in play and keep possibilities in mind for when the right letter appears. My 17 y/o stepson can routinely beat us, and he's not an avaricious reader as we are, he just sees --and seizes-- the opportunities available.

The game is great fun for all ages and I highly reccomend it.

Varrichio's book is unique in showcasing doll fashions from the 70's beyond the usual suspects from Mattel. Many long-time collectors, including myself, might not have seen many of these fashion lines. Some are rare yet inexpensive Mattel clones, while others (ie, Mego, Kenner, Ideal) are major lines that are hard to find today. The book is replete with a variety of hidden treasures for the serious doll collector to pursue, thus distinguishing it from every other compendium of doll fashions that this reviewer has read. The quality of the photos and creativity of the narratives are excellent. This book is a must-have for traditional Barbie collectors as well as those who want to expand their repertoire beyond Mattel.

I just purchased this wonderful book. I really cannot put it down. The pictures are crisp and clear. The descriptions are perfect and the commentary is priceless. This is one book every doll collector needs to own. This took a lot of work to do, and it is well worth the money. Great job Carmen Varricchio!!

This book blew me away! I've been collecting dolls all my life practically and I knew of several clone style outfits but this book has so many items that I hadn't seen before. And it gave me so much needed information on Tuesday Taylor, Tiffany Taylor, Dawn Doll Clone Outfits and a ton more. I love a book that covers the obscure and this books does a great job with a wealth of information. It shows doll lines that no one else has covered at all! I refer to this book all the time because of my line of work. So it's a definate keeper in my collection! And the one thing that really stands out in my opinion, is the quality of the pictures. They are bright and clear. You're not left guessing what the colors or hues are really like in person. So I'm very impressed! (And I'm a picky person) And it's a fun read too! I would really love to see a volume 2 on this book!! I'd be the first in line to buy it! THIS IS A MUST HAVE!!

I just love this book! The pictures are wonderful, clear and colorful, but it's the descriptions that make it oh so fun. The descriptions are very straightforward and concise, and many are funny enough to make me chuckle to myself. You just know exactly what Carmen means. I remember the 70's.

This book is a great addition to any fashion doll collectors reference as it covers many of the other dolls that were around during the Mod/Best Buy era of Barbie. Lot's of new and interesting information.

I have enjoyed this book over and over again. It is an excellent resource, clear pictures and a wide range of information on Doll Fashions. Well worth purchsaing. The author is knowledgeable and goes beyond the typical barbie fashions to sharing about a wide range of doll fashions from the 1970's. Can't wait for Volume 2!

What a wonderful book! I have just started using this in my third grade classroom and only wish I'd discovered it sooner. It can easily be used in a variety of ways as an activity for early finishers, a whole class exercise, or a centers activity. Sometimes I have my students complete it in groups and we have word ladder races. They're always begging me for just one more. Money very well spent!

Recieved item on time, right when we were told it would arrive. Book in very good condition.

My students enjoy these word puzzles. It's great for improving their vocabulary. They get to play with the language!

This has been a big hit in my second grade classroom. We are learning new vocabulary each time we use on of these sheets. It has been a good buy for me!

This is a solid book for building elementary vocabulary. It has 100 reproducible word study lessons that help kids boost reading, spelling and phonics skills independently. Among the many activities, kids read clues on each rung, then change and rearrange letters to create words until they reach the top. All the while, they are boosting decoding and spelling skills, broadening vocabulary, and becoming better, more fluent readers. Lesson by lesson, kids can "climb" to new heights in reading and writing with these engaging word-building games.

The workbook is not thick (about 100 pages). My child finished it in 2 months with a lot fun. His vocabulary improved significantly. In Beestar online assessment, his reading has rised to the next grade level largely attributed to this workbook. Highly recommend.

Besides the Stannard,this is the book to have on Matchbox.
Great for starters and long time collecors.

Excellent book. I was looking for this for a long time. Now I can check out my mini cars and find the best cars and prices I can get.

Its a big book and plenty of clear colour photos of so many examples throughout.covers every era of Matchbox toys.This type of book is superior over the wide but short books printed by this publisher.There is so much information here no matter whether you are devoted collector or just love looking at the old toys you had.This book will please most people.Its good value and high quality.

This is a great reference book, full of details and history about evolution of Matchbox toys. If you love Matchbox, this is a must. Charlie Mack is a true expert on the subject, and this is for sure the most complete and updated information about the subject. The only complains are: cover picture is not representative at all. Pictures are excelent but could be larger for the "reg. wheels" and "miniatures", and several rare cars and boxes are ommited (no space probably). However, "Tomart's Price Guide for Hot Wheels" have a much better and contemporary graphic design and many more pictures in a smaller book, and also with more description of individual models.

As the owner of both the 1997 1st edition and this newer 2004 3rd edition, I am disapointed. In order to fit 7 years of new photos into the same size book, the photos were digitally shrunk and subsequently distorted and blurred. But worse, the 1st edition had 198 pages of photos, the 3rd edition has just 159 pages of photos. Bottom line, this makes the photos tiny, blurred and distorted. Also, the paper stock (thickness) was significantly reduced so although the newer edition has just seven more total pages, the first edition is significantly thicker and heavier. So if you do not collect Mattel Matchbox, purchase the 1st edition (also it does not appear the prices between the 1997 and the 2004 price guide have changed). By the way, the 1st edition is a great book!

Or about living in Africa, or living in the past, or some sort of troubles (modern or historical). It's so nice to just see a family doing what families *do*. (They even recycle!)

My nieces ask me to read this book to them often. It's a very fast book, suitable both for very young children and for slightly older ones. We love looking at various details - like the fact that "five kinds of beans" includes JELLY beans, or the fact that the baby sits on a lap at dinner. It's just a quick, sweet book.

A very sweet and very simple book. Nice to see a family of color in a book for a change.... so my daughter gets a nice variety. My daughter's teacher requested books for the classroom as her Christmas Gift this year... so that should be a selling point! So sweet that the teacher wanted it! :)

My son actually pick this book out by himself in a bookstore when he was 18 months old. He fell in LOVE with it. We had to read it every morning. We loss it transit and I finally remember to get it from Amazon this summer. At 2 1/2 it is still his favorite book. He loves the counting and the actvities reminds him of when "Granny-Gran" comes to visit. Thank you so much for this book.

A sweet 1-10 counting book that has a nice rhyme scheme and builds its story by counting to ten, not once, but twice. The art designs feature a black extended family, however, this is not central to the story. What is emphasized is the feeling of family warmth and cooperation throughout as everyone pitches in to create the feast for ten. Children can also count the items in each picture that correspond to the poem. Well done.

This book has been around for a long time, but it continues to be a favorite in my classroom. It's one of those simple books that sparks so many different curriculum paths! Counting, number groupings, nutrition, cooperation, family activities, word choices, story writing, and more. It has also initiated collage art projects, quilt making, and paper mache vegetables! FEAST FOR 10 is a goldmine. I see that it's coming out in a board book soon, too. We have both the hardcover and several paperbacks in my class.

My 17 month old daughter with Down syndrome adores this book. She enjoys answering every page when it asks "can you?" She gets very excited by the pictures of the babies/toddlers and frequently kisses the pages. I believe that some day we will use this book that she is so attached to begin talking to her about Down syndrome.

We love it so much we bought ten copies and donated them to the local NICU where my daughter stayed and the social worker is giving them to babies who are born there with Down syndrome.

I am writing this review because as a prior Early Childhood Special Educator to children birth-3, it was very hard to find board books that had children with different needs and races. I think that this is a wonderful book for both children and parents. It shows children doing the typical things that happen in their daily routines. I really enjoyed that the pictures were really children in real situations. The book was colorful and fun to read. I would recommend that daycares and preschools add this book to their libraries for all children to enjoy.

Cute book for little ones learning or who have down syndrom. My son has down's and he loves the pictures.

My son has Down Syndrome and it was so nice to have a book for him to see other people like him, I bought two of these because 6 days after my son was born another little guy with DS was also born, I gave one these to his mother as well and she loved it too!!!! The book has great photography and is nice and simple, It catches the eye of my 6 month old! Highly reccommed it to anyone and everyone!!!

This is a great book! I love that it shows young children with Down Syndrome participating in typical early childhood activities. There need to be more books like this that include children with special needs with out explicitly pointing out their differences.

These are a great tool for students grades 1-3! I love that my students create their own Star of the Week posters without going overboard. These are perfect!

I really like using this in my classroom. It's a great way to get to know each student throughout the year. I allow for them to share their poster, and have a mini share with their favorite things that they bring from home.

GREAT for a beginning of the year project with kids... let them use their imagination and their markers!!

I plan to use these personal posters with each student of the week. After the poster is completed and returned, it will be laminated and displayed. The students can take them home at the end of the week to display at home or give as a gift to a relative.

I have my students fill out there poster whenever they are chosen as the Star Student of the week. Each student can present their poster, take a few questions, and then bask in the glory of having their poster hanging in the hall for the week. Also, after the poster has been presented, I have every student write a friendly letter to the Star Student. All letters are made into a booklet that the Star Student receives at the end of their week.

I use this for teaching a class on study skills. It is probably best for kids 7-9, but could be adapted for younger or older kids.

This has some great reproducible surveys and tools to teach study skills to kids. It's a menu of ideas on what they need. While it can be a little detailed or wordy for some kids, I think useful for teachers getting started on what topics to cover and possible tools to use.

The book was easy to read. It provided clear, reasonable guidelines and suggestions for students to organize. read, take notes and generally improve study skills. Specific strategies and examples are presented. It is a practical blueprint that will be useful for struggling students and those who simply want to be more effective.

This book arrived in three days. I was really impressed.

I have had this book before, but I'm afraid another teacher liked it even more than I did. This has graphic organizers that really work for the everyone, not just the learning challenged. My high-schoolers, as well as my elementary crowd have found this book helpful.

This is a terrific book! The strategies in it are useful and easy to follow. In being able to understand how each student learns, you can better teach that child. Also, when the students themselves understand how they learn, they can adapt their studying to fit their personal style.