From "The Nutcracker" to "Toy Story, " children have always loved tales about toys that come to life. In this lavish gift book, stories about toys and childhood are featured by Irina Hale, Johnny Gruell, Russell Hoban, and Aingelda Ardizzone, and others. Full color. From the Nutcracker to the recent film Toy Story, children have always loved tales about toys that come to life. Laura Cecil has compiled a magical collection of stories about animated playthings that includes both familiar classics and new favorites. Complementing the stories are Emma Chichester Clark's enchanting illustrations. The Kingfisher Book of Toy Stories is the perfect gift for any child. Stories include: The Nutcracker; Raggedy Ann Rescues Fido; Brown Bear in a Brown Chair; and The Steadfast Tin Soldier.

Josh, the worst player on his baseball team, attempts to escape ridicule by staying with his father for the summer, but things at the lakeside cottage have changed with the addition of a new stepmother and stepsister.