compiled by JAMES ZAHN, Editor-in-Chief
I
n many ways, the toy industry feels like one big extended family. You’ve got the serious ones, the funny ones, the wacky cousins, the kids who don’t get along, the cool aunts and uncles, the babies, the elders, and the rock stars with the hit product of the moment. And if we’re talking family, then Toy Fair is the big reunion where the multi-generational purveyors of play come back together to catch up, do some business, and hopefully have some fun. With that in mind, The Toy Book is cracking open the scrapbook for some insight into the toys and games that have inspired members of our toy industry family in their lives and careers. We hope you’ll enjoy these stories as we look forward to making new memories at Toy Fair that will ultimately result in new generations of kids being inspired to do big things in the years to come!
Tim Kilpin, President of Toys, Licensing & Entertainment at Hasbro As a kid growing up in Wisconsin, where each winter lasted several years, I loved to doodle and draw. My favorite toy that added to that enjoyment was Spirograph. With so many choices of gears and colors (and fun stick pins!), I felt like I was playing and creating on an endless canvas. Today, it’s heartening to know that we are still making Spirograph for a new generation – complete with wonderful new features like Scratch & Shimmer, 3-D, and even animated versions! And no stick pins anymore!
ilpin
K Tim
David Vonner Chief Creative Officer, WalkGlobal LA Dennis the Menace had his sling-shot, Linus had his blanket, and I had my Spider-Man! I carried my Mego Spider-Man everywhere! And as you can see, he was no stranger to taking pictures. Spidey is always the camera hog! Man, I wish I still had my Mego Spider-Man.
Josslynne Welch, President, Litzky PR
Josslynne Welch
David Vonner
When I was born, people gave me teddy bears. Lots of them. And what started as gifts became a collection. Yes, they were snuggly, but the bears were also trusted confidants and the very best tea party guests. They provided comfort and companionship, inspired imaginative play, promoted nurturing, and prompted sharing. Over the years, my bears have moved on to new families, but I’ve held on to Honey Bear who always made the parties sweet. Pass the tea, please.
Source:
Mego
Corp.
42 The Toy Book | October 2023 | toybook.com
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