Blog - Page 79 of 1542 - The Toy Book

Midas Well Entertainment’s The Glowberry Bears Expands into Animation and Merchandise

Midas Well Entertainment, a family-owned company, is expanding its debut book, The Legend of Little Glow, into an animated webisode series and product line with coloring pages and further book installments. Written by R.C. McKenzie, the story follows Little Glow, an adventurous bear who doesn’t know what his special power is, and his friends teaming up to stop the Snorts from stealing the light of Glowberry Island. Key themes in the book are belief in oneself, teamwork, and perseverance, and the upcoming webisodes aim to expand on the world of Glowberry Island and teach kids important life lessons.

The cover art for The Legend of Little Glow (Source: Midas Well Entertainment)

The company is fully operated by the Burgess family, led by CEO Robert Burgess Sr.. When describing the dynamics of Midas Well Entertainment, he says, “In 2019, my wife (Cynthia) and I and our two sons and daughter (Robert Jr, Jared and Candace) joined forces to take Midas Well to new heights. Cynthia brings knowledge on bringing products to market and marketing. Robert Jr studied Film and Video and is a talented screenwriter. Candace is a singer/songwriter and has a background in Project Management and Jared is the ultimate gamer and is also a talented writer. With everyone’s talents combined, Midas Well has all its bases covered – from TV to movies, from books to games and music, and from concept to market, each member of the family has their finger on the pulse of a creative avenue that Midas Well will pursue.”

For more information on where to purchase a copy of The Legend of Little Glow or The Glowberry Bears merchandise, visit the Glowberry Island site.

Funrise Introduces Furlings Interactive Plush Line

A new line of interactive plush called Furlings is the latest release from toy brand Funrise.

Furlings are large, soft creatures that interact with kids via LCD eyes and sounds. The plush are reactive to kids’ actions; for example, Furlings growl when kids squeeze their ears and laugh when they shake them. Another key selling point of Furlings is their long, slap-band tail that kids can wrap around arms and poles for upside-down play.

The plush have eyes and sounds that react to different actions. | Source: Funrise

There are over 80 "grins and growls" that Furlings make. | Source: Funrise

Aspen, a yeti toy, is a Walmart exclusive. | Source: Funrise

“Combining the timeless charm of plush toys with the innovative features that today’s kids love, Furlings create an interactive and engaging experience that makes playtime magical and memorable,” says Kristine Wheeler, Director of Global Brand Marketing and Operations at Funrise.

So far, the Furlings line comprises three styles, Finley the dragon, Aspen the yeti, and Cleo the jackalope. Aspen is a Walmart exclusive while the other two varieties are available for pre-order on Amazon.

To learn more about Furlings, visit the Funrise website.

PlayMonster Reveals New Influencer Network

PlayMonster is launching the PlayMonster Influencer Network, a group of social personalities designed to show off the company’s toys and games and engage with audiences across TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.

Members of the PlayMonster Influencer Network include @games4two, a couple who play board games together on TikTok; TurboToyTime, a father and his sons who share their love of toys and games on YouTube; and @gettishow, a world-record-setting hula hooper who has a TikTok channel.

“Launching the PlayMonster Influencer Network is a cornerstone of our mission to connect people through social, shareable play experiences,” says Jonathan Berkowitz, CEO of PlayMonster. “Our founding network partners will enhance our digital presence through fall 2025 and beyond and connect our brands with a captive consumer audience directly on the platforms where they’re finding new products, creative inspiration, and viral trends. We can’t wait to see the twists our influencers add to PlayMonster products.”

The PlayMonster Influencer Network has a combined reach of more than 50 million followers. PlayMonster will use the network to promote new launches and fan favorites, including Five Second Rule, Pigs on Trampolines, Yeti in My Spaghetti, Spirograph, Koosh, and more.

Feld Entertainment Revs Up ‘Monster Jam’ Movie with Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson

At last week’s D23 Expo, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson took the stage in front of a packed house at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California to share a look at this year’s Moana 2. But his latest turn as Maui for Walt Disney Pictures Animation wasn’t the only thing The Rock had cookin’.

The Rock is suiting up for a live-action adventure set in the world of one of the most toyetic motorsports brands: Feld Entertainment’s Monster Jam.

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Max-D | Source: Feld Entertainment

We got an opportunity here that we could create something that is immersive and cool and fun, and also a live-action experience for our families all around the world, from the POV of these incredible, iconic monster trucks and their very eccentric and crazy drivers. Ladies and gentlemen, ‘Monster Jam’ is gonna be a heck of a ride.”

Dwayne Johnson, Seven Bucks

“Together, The Rock and Monster Jam are truly ‘As Big As It Gets!,'” says Juliette Feld Grossman, CEO of Feld Entertainment, describing the film from Seven Bucks and Walt Disney Studios as “a high-octane, live-action adventure that will bring the larger-than-life Monster Jam trucks and personalities from the stadium to the screen.”

In recent years, Monster Jam has grown as a popular and evergreen brand in the toy department, led by a robust line of die-cast vehicles, playsets, and R/C from Spin Master.

More information on Monster Jam will be revealed in the months ahead.

Alan Bergman (Co-Chairman, Disney Entertainment, The Walt Disney Co.) and Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson | Source: Disney

Alan Bergman (Co-Chairman, Disney Entertainment, The Walt Disney Co.) and Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson | Source: Disney

Alan Bergman (Co-Chairman, Disney Entertainment, The Walt Disney Co.) and Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson | Source: Disney

Gearing Up for Gaming: Mattel, AirConsole, and BMW Group Announce UNO Car Party!

With Mattel‘s recent collaboration with AirConsole and BMW Group, UNO is officially hitting the road.

The three companies will unveil UNO Car Party! at Gamescom 2024, which takes place Aug. 21-25 in Cologne, Germany. Attendees can experience this new version of UNO by visiting the AirConsole Booth (Hall 10.1, Stand B028 – C029).

BMW owners and their passengers can play UNO via their personal devices with the AirConsole controller system. Up to four players can experience UNO Car Party! on the road as long as the vehicle remains stationary.

Mattel, AirConsole, and BMW Group will announce UNO Car Party! at Gamescom 2024. | Source: AirConsole

Passengers can play UNO Card Party! via their personal devices. | Source: AirConsole

UNO Car Party! is suitable for up to four players. | Source: AirConsole

Since 2022, AirConsole and the BMW Group’s partnership has brought innovative gameplay to BMW vehicles. UNO Car Party! joins its wide selection of games, including “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?”, launched in collaboration with Sony Pictures Television last July.

We continue to increase the value of the overall digital experience for our customers. Our partners AirConsole and Mattel are helping make in-car gaming into a new social experience, and I am thrilled to offer a family-favorite game like UNO for this exciting innovation.”

Stephan Durach, Senior Vice President of the BMW Group Development Connected Company and Technical Operations

“UNO beautifully illustrates the strengths of AirConsole with a game accessible to everyone, a bespoke integration to the car hardware, and our phone-controlled gaming experience,” says Anthony Cliquot, CEO of AirConsole. “Each player can secretly see their own cards on their phone while playing on the infotainment system of the car. This is an experience that would be impossible to achieve using only touchscreen or Bluetooth controls on the infotainment system.”

“UNO is perfect for in-car gaming because it’s highly engaging and brings people together,” says Erika Winterholler, Head of Business Development, Digital Gaming at Mattel. “Its simple rules are easy to learn and endlessly captivating, making it ideal for both short pit stops and extended play sessions. UNO’s social nature turns every journey into a fun experience, and we’re so excited to bring this spirit to consumers in an innovative way with our partners at BMW and AirConsole.”

Consumers can play UNO Car Party! In over 500,000 BMW and MINI vehicles via AirConsole starting Aug. 21.

Sesame Workshop’s State of Well-Being Index Tackles Mental Health Crisis

It all started with a simple tweet from Sesame Street’s Elmo. The beloved little red monster took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to say “Elmo is just checking in! How is everybody doing?” The collective response made it clear that people are having a tough time with their mental health.

In response to the growing mental health crisis among children, Sesame Workshop has created research-based resources to support the emotional well-being of young children and families. Learn more: https://t.co/4WNM8tqqnY #EmotionalWellbeing pic.twitter.com/tMOmSfbV8J
— Sesame Workshop (@SesameWorkshop) May 3, 2023

Sesame Workshop has committed itself to mental well-being. | Source: Sesame Workshop

Now, Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit behind Sesame Street, has partnered up with The Harris Poll to examine the mental health crisis in America. The organization released its inaugural State of Well-Being Report. The report includes survey data on the well-being of Americans and their families, as well as thoughts on the importance of mental health, barriers that make things difficult, and more.

As an organization grounded in research and focused on impact, this new index will allow us to keep a pulse on the well-being of Americans and their families and make a meaningful contribution to our collective understanding of what drives well-being today.

Jill Crane, Vice President of Consumer Insights, Sesame Workshop

The survey results were pulled from 2,012 online interviews reflecting the general U.S. population, ages 16 and up. According to the report, Americans ranked the importance of mental health on par with economic stability. One in three parents said their or their family’s well-being is negatively impacted by mental health issues, with the number going up to one in two among teens.

The country isn’t feeling optimistic about it, either, with less than half (42%) feeling a sense of optimism around the well-being of Americans. Most respondents indicated that they wanted to see mental well-being further prioritized by leaders and in education.

Americans understand that mental health is a vital issue, and that’s why the need for our work has never been greater. By celebrating everyday joys, teaching children to understand their emotions, and helping parents recognize the signs of more serious mental health challenges, we’re building a solid foundation for children’s emotional well-being that will support them for years to come.

Samantha Maltin, Chief Marketing and Brand Officer, Sesame Workshop

The index isn’t all negative, however. The report emphasized the need for increased kindness in today’s world. 82% of respondents agreed that “my well-being would improve if society was kinder” and 85% indicated that it’s important for society to promote kindness.

Sesame Workshop’s full State of Well-Being Report is available for free download now on the organization’s official website. The organization declared a multi-year commitment to emotional well-being last year, and has since continually released free resources on its page dedicated to mental health.

Hunter Products Partners with ChizSix Marketing & Media

Hunter Products has selected ChizSix Marketing & Media as its agency of record ahead of the new year. The manufacturing, design, and development company is preparing a lineup of toys, sporting goods, aquatic accessories, fitness equipment, and more.

As the company navigates the launch of new and upcoming product lines and collaborations, ChizSix will provide assistance. This includes WWE-branded products such as aquatic toys, air inflatables, bouncers, and puzzle cards, and an outdoor and sporting equipment collaboration with Shaquille O’Neal. Hunter Products will also release the 12V Go Kart Basic with Aston Martin, a relaunch of the Shibajuku Anime fashion dolls, and the return of Madballs collectibles.

Kids can create forts and different play spaces with Huddle products. | Source: Hunter Products.

Retailers can also anticipate slow-rising foam cushions, the Huddle, and a relaunch of the dancing ballerina doll, Ballerina Dreamer, with new music. GEMEX, a crafting set that turns gel into gems, and a collection of ESPN sporting goods are also in the works.

The new lineup from Hunter Products is truly exhilarating. We’re excited to be back on board to help amplify these innovative products and make sure they get the attention they deserve."

Harold Chizick, CEO, ChizSix Marketing & Media

Hunter Products will also reveal a permanent showroom in Los Angeles. The showroom will provide exclusive looks at the company’s product line.

“We’re incredibly excited about the breadth and depth of our new product lineup. With ChizSix by our side, we’re ready to make a significant splash and showcase what we offer. Our diverse range includes something special for everyone — from kids to kidults, collectors, and families,” Tim Hunter, National Sales Manager for Hunter Products, says.

For more information and details on the upcoming products, visit hunterproducts.com.au.

Relatable Taps Social Media Gaming Duo Games4Two for Trio of New Titles

Relatable, formerly known as What Do You Meme? has partnered with a popular social media gaming couple on three new games.

Games4Two is comprised of Chris and Aly James, a couple with a passion for board and tabletop games. The duo commands millions of followers on both TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram.

Tower Stack relies on familiar game mechanics and play patterns. | Source: Relatable

The first of the new games is Shoot the Moon, a retro favorite that involves manipulating a metal ball into different planetary holes for varying points. The next game, Tower Stack, requires players to balance geometrical shapes on a swaying base. The last game in the trio is Kollide; in it, players must race to put all their magnets in the playing field first without letting them touch.

With gameplay from the ’40s, Shoot the Moon is has throwback appeal. | Source: Relatable

“Collaborating with Chris and Aly is a fantastic opportunity for us to push the boundaries of gaming,” says Tom Emelo, Chief Strategy Officer at Relatable. “Their unique and creative approach, coupled with their strong connection to their audience, makes them the perfect fit for our vision of creating trend-driven products that appeal to our audiences.”

All three games are available now on Amazon and Target. Visit the Relatable website to learn more.

Hilco Sweets Introduces Emily Edmondson as New Executive Vice President

Candy and novelties manufacturer Hilco Sweets hired Emily Edmondson as Executive Vice President. In this executive team role, her priorities will be managing the company’s accounts as well as its national and regional sales teams. With more than 15 years of sales experience, she began her career in confections at Galerie Candy. Over time, she worked with brokers and customers across various sectors and was named the 2022 Woman of Influence for the National Confectioners Association. Prior to this new role, Edmondson acted as the Value Team Lead for Crayola.

Regarding this new opportunity, Edmondson says, “I’m thrilled to join Hilco Sweets and bring my experience to its distinctive line of novelty candy, and I look forward to working with some of the most renowned and exciting brands.”

Lou DiMarco, President of Hilco Sweets, also shares his thoughts on the decision, saying, “Emily is an industry expert with an outstanding reputation, customer knowledge, and trade knowledge. With a deep understanding of market dynamics across diverse sectors, Emily brings a unique blend of experience, innovative mindset, and strategic vision to drive success and growth to Hilco.”

Mattel Introduces ‘Wicked’ Doll Line Ahead of Film Release

Mattel has released a line of fashion dolls inspired by Universal Pictures’ upcoming film, Wicked.

The new collection celebrates the movie’s heroines, Glinda and Elphaba, played by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. Deluxe fashion dolls of the leads feature Glinda wearing her signature pink ball gown, and Elphaba wearing a purple dress and sheer black cape ($39.99 each).

The doll line’s release comes about two months prior to the film’s release. | Source: Mattel

The singing dolls in the collection highlight other memorable moments from the Wizard of Oz prequel. Donning evening wear, kids can hear Glinda sing “Popular” and Elphaba sing “Defying Gravity.” The set of the fashion dolls ($24.99 each), meanwhile, features Glinda and Elphaba dressed up for a party.

The Nessarose doll comes with a manual wheelchair rendered in gold. | Source: Mattel

Mattel’s Wicked collection also includes a Nessarose doll, played by the actress Marissa Bode in the film. The Nessarose doll is poseable and comes with an ornate, golden wheelchair ($24.99).

The film hits theaters Nov. 22. To view Mattel’s full Wicked fashion doll collection, visit the company website.

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