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IlluStory Make Your Own Story Kit

List price: $21.95
Lowest new price: $13.75
Brand: Creations by You
Model: IKR

IlluStory

Write and illustrate your own book!!

Imagine your child's face when she or he sees their own story and drawings made into a professionally typeset, hardbound book! With this multi - award winning kit, you simply have your child write and illustrate their story using the materials supplied in the kit, which are then mailed in (in the pre-paid envelope provided) for publication. You'll soon receive a beautiful, professionally typset, 12 page, 7" x 9" hardcover book, complete with an "about the author page", title and dedication pages and your little author's name, title and drawing laminated on the cover. Extras books are optional and make great gifts for grandparents. Winner of Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal Award, Parents' Choice Classic Award, Family Life's Best Learning Toy Award and Dr. Toy Best Toy-Classic Award.

Publish your own book with the Illustory Make Your Own Book Kit! This award-winning activity kit allows future authors to write and illustrate their very own story on special book pages provided. Once the story is complete, it is sent to be published, and in a few short weeks the budding writer receives a color-copied, professionally type set hardbound book. Ideal for ages five and up, this innovative kit nurtures enthusiasm for reading, writing, and illustrating.

Let the Fun Begin
Illustory Make Your Own Book Kit is not only fun, it also helps your child build self-esteem. You'll never forget the look in your budding writer's eyes as you proudly display his or her first book on your coffee table or bookshelf. This kit even includes an "About the Author" biography page, title, and dedication, just like a real published book. Your child will also enjoy creating the cover and will be able to select from seven cover colors. Families can have fun too as they create their own story together. Extra books with alternate dedication pages can be ordered to make the child's story a gift or keepsake for family, friends, or teachers.

Once your child is finished with the writing, sending the manuscript to publishing is easy, with the included paid postage envelope. Production time is about three to four weeks, plus delivery time. The finished hardcover book measures 7 by 9 inches with 12 pages, and features a permanent hardback binding, a laminated cover drawing, and book title. For techno-savy young authors, the book can be created entirely online by using the Creations By You bookmaking Web site. The entire Illustory kit includes 18 special book pages, 2 cover pages, 10 washable markers, story web planner, instructions, order form, and a prepaid envelope. The correct spelling option allows a choice between leaving spelling errors in or having the words printed correctly.

Award-Winning Features
This kit was a winner of the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal Award, as well as multiple awards from other organizations. It helps builds self-esteem and sparks an interest in reading and writing. Youngsters learn to see a project through to completion, and their final printed story rewards their effort. There are many optional upgrades available (for a charge) to enhance the book. Extra books can be printed and separately dedicated as gifts for family and friends. In addition, the author's photo can appear on the bio page, and rush delivery is also available. The Make Your Own Book kit beautifully captures a child's creativity and turns it into a keepsake that will be treasured for years to come.

What's in the Box
18 book pages, 2 cover pages, 10 washable markers, story web planner, instructions, order form, and prepaid envelope.

Using the popular IlluStory Make Your Own Story kit, kids who love to write and color can turn their work into a "published," hardcover book that's complete with personalized dedications for each copy. Aspiring writers ages seven and up will get a big thrill when their finished book comes in the mail featuring their own creative text as well as their own photo in the "About the Author" section!



Kids will love seeing their work published with the IlluStory kit. View larger.


Each kit comes with 10 colorful markers. View larger.
What We Think

Fun Factor:

Durability:

(what this means)

The Good: Personalized copies of books make great gifts for relatives

The Bad: Complicated instructions and publishing options

In a Nutshell: Creative kids will definitely be thrilled at becoming a "published" author
At a Glance

Ages: 7 and up
Write, Color, Publish!
Parents will have to read the instructions carefully to help kids create and mail in their book for publishing. There are several important rules to follow, such as strict word countes per page. Once you've helped your child understand the rules, all they have to do is color and write! There are "cover pages" and "story pages" provided, with extras of each in case of mistakes -- a thoughtful touch.

The kit includes 10 markers, but kids can also use their own. When it comes time to publish, the variety of options parents will be faced with can be confusing. They are all covered in the instructions, which are relatively clear, but you may have to read them a couple times through to fully digest them.

Great Gifts for Relatives
Though kids can only write one story per kit, they can write personalized dedications for each book they order, which makes their published books great gifts for grandparents and other relatives. The "About the Author" section is sure to be exciting for your child, especially when they see their own photo. And while younger kids will love the act of coloring and writing on the pages that are provided, older, computer-savvy kids might enjoy the option to create their book online -- an option that lets your child get published faster!

Watch Out, Stephen King!
We really appreciated the extra cover and story pages that were provided in case of mistakes. The "Story Web: Plan Your Story" page is a nice feature too: it gives kids a quick lesson in storytelling while encouraging them to plot their story out before writing. The ability to create your book online is very cool. But our online attempt to create the cover illustration got sadly foiled by a technical error. There was no explanation of what it was or how to fix it, either. On the other hand, the physical kit, with its quality, old-fashioned paper and pens is easy to use. Also, when you mail the story in for publishing, the postage is free!


What's in the Box
Instructions, story web planner, two cover pages, 18 book pages, order form, 10 broadline washable markers, and postage paid envelope.

Features:

  • Make your own book kit allows children to write and illustrate their own story
  • Receive a color-copied, professionally type-set book in a few short weeks
  • Children get to design cover and write About the Author biography page
  • Mail in story in the prepaid envelope, or create book entirely online.
  • Includes 18 book pages, 2 cover pages, 10 washable markers, story web planner, instructions, order form, and prepaid envelope

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Melissa & Doug Birthday Party Birthday Cake

List price: $19.99
Lowest new price: $10.98
Brand: Melissa & Doug
Model: 511

It's a wish come true! This uniquely playful wooden birthday cake has enough slices and toppings for every "party guest" and enough candles to last for years! Includes wooden spatula and convenient storage box.

You are invited to Melissa and Doug's birthday party! Let the fun begin with this playful birthday cake. It has enough slices and toppings for every party guest the whole family can join in the fun. Now kids ages three to five can throw birthday parties year round.

A Wish Come True
This simple wooden toy fosters creative play and is a wonderful addition to imaginary kitchens everywhere. Use the wooden spatula to serve the cake and the fake candles to make a wish. This toy will make an excellent birthday gift for future bakers.

The cake itself is painted white with blue icing swirls and has seven removable candles that fasten to the top. Three delectable toppings -- strawberries, jellybeans, and gumdrops -- can be added to the top and the cake comes in a decorative box kids love. This delicious dessert is already cut into slices that fasten together with Velcro and easily pull apart. It also has a bright red serving platter and each of the six pieces is about the size of a real piece of cake. Also, as a well-made and durable wooden toy, it withstands child play and the paint won't easily chip off, even if it is accidentally dropped. Storing all the pieces may be a challenge, but a party box is included to contain the candles and decorations.

Features
This birthday cake is a hit for those who like to help out in the kitchen. Children love redecorating and serving it using the wooden spatula. Unlike many of today's modern toys, it encourages creativity, as children get to design their own cake and parties. It amuses future hosts and hostesses for hours and is an exceptional value as a 33-piece set. This cake remains child's favorite for years and includes enough candles to celebrate a lot of birthdays. The cake has a 10-1/2-inch diameter.

What's in the Box
Includes 6-slice cake, serving plate, 19 toppings, 7 candles, wooden spatula and storage box.


Three delectable toppings can be added, and the cake comes in a decorative box

Features:

  • Melissa and Doug wooden birthday cake
  • Slices and toppings for every party guest
  • Features decorative box kids love and serving spatula
  • Strawberries, jellybeans, and gumdrops easily fasten to the top
  • 33-piece set, includes 6-slice cake, serving plate, 19 toppings, 7 candles, wooden spatula, and storage box.

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Melissa & Doug 60-Piece Standard Unit Blocks

List price: $59.99
Lowest new price: $36.99
Brand: Melissa & Doug
Model: 503

Build a tower, a town or just about anything with these large solid-wood standard unit blocks. The 60 big, smooth-sanded sturdy blocks are naturally finished with a classic look for hours of classic fun. The handsome wooden storage crate makes clean up and storage easy. Measures 15"L x 12.25"W x 5.25"D.

Every toddler and young child should have at least one wooden block set in their toy collection. The Melissa & Doug Standard Unit Blocks include 60 precision-cut, standard-shaped, solid wooden blocks that will engage your child's imagination for hours. Designed for ages three and up, these blocks feature smooth, rounded edges and are housed in a convenient, sturdy wooden storage crate.

Standard Unit Blocks
    Ages: 3+

    Requires:
  • Parental help moving storage case
What We Think

Fun factor:
Durability:
Ease of assembly:
Educational factor:

The Good: Classic wooden blocks made of 100% hardwoods with smooth, round edges.

The Challenging: When filled with blocks, storage crate is too heavy for younger children to lift.

In a Nutshell: 60-piece set of classic wooden blocks made with Melissa & Doug's signature focus on safety and design.


The 60-piece Standard Unit Blocks from Melissa & Doug provide hours of creative fun. View larger.


Your little architect will love building bridges, towers and more. View larger.
Hardwood Quality with Smooth, Rounded Edges
In these days of electronic toys, it's important not to forget the fundamentals of childhood development. Wooden blocks offer children endless ways to exercise their imagination as they improve their hand-eye coordination and gross motor skills. They also help children establish important relationships between the "part" and the "whole," and the help to provide basic lessons on engineering and gravity.

These Standard Unit Blocks feature Melissa & Doug's signature focus on simple designs, safety and utility. Each block is sanded to an ultra-smooth finish and features smooth, rounded edges so your child can play safely. The blocks are made of 100% hardwoods, with no fillers, paints, or varnishes, adding to your peace of mind.

Includes Durable Wooden Storage Crate
Included in the set are all the classic wooden-block shapes that allow children's imaginations and engineering skills run wild as they build bridges, towers, houses and more. The blocks are packaged in a handsome, durable wooden storage crate that will help you keep the blocks stored in between building sessions, and help you keep them in your family for years to come. Parents should note that when the storage case is filled with all 60 blocks, it will be too heavy for younger children to carry without their help.

The crate measures 12.5 x 15 x 5.25 inches (WxLxH).

About Melissa & Doug
Started in the garage at Doug's parents' house in 1988, Melissa & Doug has grown to become one of the most popular toy makers in the world. Their toys have garnered dozens of parenting and "best toy" awards over the years, and have been featured widely in national print media and on television.

One of the company's points of pride is that their toys are thoroughly tested for safety, and meet all US consumer product safety regulations. The toys are tested at the factory of origin during various phases of the production process to assure that every toy meets the company's stringent safety requirements every step along the way. In particular, the paints and coatings on Melissa & Doug toys are tested frequently to be sure they meet or exceed government recommendations limiting heavy metals and lead in children's items.

Since day one, Melissa & Doug has been in compliance with every US consumer product safety regulation and will continue to stay compliant as the laws continue to evolve, assuring parents that their children can have a safe childhood while playing with Melissa & Doug toys.

What's in the Box
60 wooden blocks and wooden storage case.


Children can let their imaginations run wild as they build towers and towns with this 60-piece standard unit block set. The 60 large, classroom-sized blocks have a classic look and are easy for little fingers to grasp. Ideal for ages three to five, this block set stimulates children for hours as they engage in imaginative play.

Naturally Finished for a Classic Look
Wooden blocks have been around for centuries and make an excellent tool to teach basic math concepts, organizational skills, sequential skills, and spatial relations. It is no surprise that blocks are found in almost every pre-school and kindergarten classroom. Youngsters become the architect of their own world as they fit pieces together to form their vision. This open-ended play set stimulates creativity and hones basic motor skills.

Each set features a large variety shapes and sizes including arches, columns, squares, rectangles, triangles, cylinders, and circles, as well as basic, half, and double unit blocks. This block set is crafted to the standard unit block size (1-1/2-by-2-by-5-inches) and constructed from Rubberwood, a resilient hardwood. The blocks are big, chunky, and easy for kids to grasp and build with. Smoothly sanded surfaces tantalize fingertips and create a handsome natural aesthetic. Best of all, when the child finishes constructing their masterpiece, all the pieces store neatly into a wooden storage box.

There is no limit to the types of fortresses the child can build with these blocks. This deluxe set even contains pillars, buttresses, gothic circles, and half-circles for advanced architecture. As an added bonus, the storage box doubles as a building platform. Children and parents have fun as they complete projects together. Parents can purchase another set and add to the amusement. An essential for any child's toy box, these blocks are sturdy, durable, and beautiful enough to put on display. The box measures 15-by-12-1/2-by-15-1/4 inches.

What's in the Box
60 solid wood pieces and wooden storage box.


The open-ended play set stimulates creativity and hones basic motor skills.

The 60 large, classroom-sized blocks come contains gothic circles, half-circles, buttresses, and pillars.

Features:

  • 60-piece standard unit block set allows children to build towers and towns
  • Stimulates creativity and hones basic motor skills
  • Features natural look; pieces are easy for little fingers to grasp
  • Excellent tool for teaching math concepts, organizational skills, sequential skills, and spatial relations
  • Includes 60 solid-wood pieces and wooden storage box

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Rubik's Cube

List price: $12.99
Lowest new price: $6.70
Brand: Winning Moves
Model: 5025

The date is 1974. The place is Budapest, Hungary. Erno Rubik, an admirer of geometry and 3-D forms creates the world's most perfect -- and addictive -- puzzle. More than three decades later the Rubik's cube is still one of the best selling brainteasers. Whether it was full size or the smaller keychain version almost every child had this puzzle by in 1980 when it found worldwide success. Elementary school kids were seen solving it with their feet on "That's Incredible!", conspiracy theorists believed it was an Eastern bloc tactic to distract American youth from getting an education, and Cubaholics Anonymous was formally established to help cure the compulsive need to solve it.

Rubik’s Cube
Each side is just over 2", while each sticker is about ½" square.
For all of the hullabaloo, the Rubik’s Cube actually has a pretty straightforward premise. The faces of the cube are covered by nine stickers in six solid colors (one for each 2.25" side); when the puzzle is solved, each face is one solid color. Then you realize as you turn the rows and columns and see all the colors flash by that there are 43 quintillion possible pattern combinations (that’s 43 million millions), but just one right one. Maybe Cubaholics Anonymous wasn’t such a bad idea after all….

This Rubik’s Cube has reflective red, white, blue, yellow, green, and orange colored stickers with an official twenty-fifth anniversary sticker in the center white square. The cube is packaged in a clear hexagon box and includes a black display stand. There is also a solutions hint and game suggestion book, just in case.

Features:

  • "43 Quintillion" possible moves and only "ONE" solution!
  • As a special added bonus, a Free Rubik's Cube stand is included
  • This completely redesigned gift package is a sure-fire, must-have collectable!
  • Twist and turn the Cube® using various combinations to return it to its original state...every side finally having one solid color!
  • A stimulating challenging puzzle! Rubik's Cube is the world's popular 3-D puzzle phenomenon!

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Razor A Kick Scooter (Blue)

List price: $39.99
Lowest new price: $27.97
Lowest used price: $21.99
Brand: Razor
Model: 13003A-BL

The Razor A Scooter is the original kick scooter. Updated deck design with aircraft grade aluminum t-tube and deck. Patented rear fender brake and patented folding mechanism that creates easier storage. Weighs only six pounds and easy to fold and carry.

The original kick scooter, the Razor A is a handy little ride for kids and teens alike. Though it'll never replace the internal combustion engine, the scooter will get your child from point A to point B much quicker than on foot alone, and requires just a few scoots of one's shoes in the process. Plus, it's a blast to use, as your progeny will likely attest.

The Razor A is built of aircraft-grade aluminum, a sturdy material that holds up to use and abuse through the years. Its T-tube and deck, meanwhile, fold up into a compact footprint, so riders can fit the scooter inside a bag or carry it at their side when riding isn't appropriate (it weighs around 6 pounds). And thanks to the 98 mm inline-style urethane wheels, ABEC 5 bearings, and patented rear fender brake, riders will always feel smooth and in control when kicking along the sidewalk.

Recommended for ages 5 and older, this version of the Razor A sports blue handlebars, a blue deck logo, and blue wheels, with a max rider weight of 143 pounds. It's also backed by a six-month warranty. For the next step up, try the Razor A2 Scooter.

Key Features:

  • For riders ages 5 and older
  • Sturdy aluminum construction
  • Weighs approximately six pounds
  • Retractable kickstand
  • Rear fender brake
  • Patented folding mechanism
  • 143-pound user weight capacity
  • Six-month warranty

The buyer and rider of the Razor A scooter are responsible for knowing and obeying all local, state, and federal regulations regarding the riding and use of scooters.

The standard Razor scooter has stuck around long enough to safely move out of the realm of fad status. This slick model, constructed of aircraft grade aluminum, sports 98 mm urethane wheels with ABEC 5 bearings and a rear fender brake. To afford greater portability, it sports collapsible handlebars and folds neatly. Some might choose to own the Razor as a transportation option since it makes for a neat commuting supplement to public transportation or the school bus. But it’s also just a neat little thing to have around the house for the occasional spin down the sidewalk or out to the local park. --Charlie Williams

Features:

  • Original kick scooter made of sturdy aircraft-grade aluminum with blue highlights
  • Patented T-tube and deck design folds conveniently for transport
  • 98 mm inline-style urethane wheels with ABEC 5 bearings
  • Patented rear fender brake for quick stops; weighs only 6 pounds
  • Recommended for ages 5 and older; 6-month warranty

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Electronic Hyperslide

List price: $24.99
Lowest new price: $9.99
Brand: Hasbro
Model: 44694

Be quick as you flick, slide or shoot the different-colored hyper discs under the arch. As the game unit calls out the sequence of colors for you to pass, the game "knows" if you've passed the right disc or not. Pass 'em fast before the buzzer blasts! Obey the voice commands, get your brain in the game and break the code, or guess which color will be called next. Play with a friend or practice solo.

Tabletop slide-and-pass excitement features electronic lights and sounds, plus an announcer's voice that talks you through three fast-sliding game modes. Electronic game unit comes with four Hyper Discs, each a different color; plus Hyper Band and instructions. Requires 3 "AA" batteries (not included). For 1 or 2 players.

Be quick, pick the right colored hyper disc, and flick it under the arch before time runs out. The Hyper Slide from Hasbro packs three fast-paced electronic table-top games into one compact unit. Recommended for ages eight and up, these fast-sliding games for one or two players are fun and exciting for kids and adults.



The hyper discs can be conveniently stored in a compartment on the side of the arch. View larger.


Three fast-paced electronic table-top games in one stylish unit. View larger.
Fun, Futuristic Table Top Game
With its sleek, arched design, Hyper Slide looks like a futuristic game. Resembling a hockey game for a table top, the object is to flip the pucks through the goal. However, in these games the goal can be scored from both sides of the arch, and there are four different-colored pucks, called hyper discs. The game's electronic unit calls out a color, and you must pick that color and sent it through the arc. It automatically detects whether you've passed the right disc or not. When not in operation, the hyper discs can be conveniently stored in a compartment on the side of the arch.

Three Games for Solo Play or Two-Person Play
The Hyper Slide offers a few variations of play for your enjoyment. Two lighted buttons on the top of the Hyper Slide make it easy to choose which of the three games you want to play.

While the objects of the games are simple, playing them can be a fun challenge. The first game, "Fast Pass," is all about speed. The game commands a color and you've got to pass it through the goal quickly before the buzzer blasts. With "Add One," you've got to remember the order of colors. You start with a color and add one to the sequence each time you complete a round. "Code Buster" gives you 90 seconds to decipher the secret series of colors.

Best of all, you can play all these games with a friend or by yourself. With both "Fast Pass" and "Add One," you can even play head-to-head with another player or team. For solo play, the rubber "hyper band" is attached under the arch, bouncing the discs back to your side.

Put to the Test
Playing on any smooth, nonmetal surface, you'll be surprised how much fun the Hyper Slide really is. An announcer's voice, high-energy music, and sound effects move these games along. With your head in the game, you'll soon block out all the noise and only hear the color to flick, slide, or shoot through the arch. Unfortunately, if the constant voice directions are not your thing, the game can't be played without these sounds, nor can the volume be adjusted. On the plus side, the Hyper Slide announces your score at the end of each competition and keeps track of the highest score for each game. This electronic system runs on three "AAA" batteries (sold separately). If the Hyper Slide goes unused for two minutes, this smartly designed toy "goes to sleep," saving battery life until the player buttons are pressed.

Pros

  • 3 fast-paced games for 2-person and solo play
  • Lighted buttons make it easy to switch through games
  • Games remember high scores
  • Electronic game shuts off on its own
Cons
  • Game must be played with announcer and music going
  • Volume can't be controlled
What's in the Box
Hyper Slide electronic game, hyper band, and 4 hyper discs.

Features:

  • Electronic game for table top fun and competition
  • 3 different games for team, 1-on-1, and solo play
  • Designed for 1- and 2-person play; storage compartment for discs
  • Pass'em fast before the buzzer blasts! Obey the voice commands, get your brain in the game and break the code, or guess which color will be called next!
  • Games remember high scores. Electronic game shuts off on its own.

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Melissa & Doug Deluxe Jumbo Cardboard Blocks

List price: $39.99
Lowest new price: $20.99
Brand: Melissa & Doug
Model: 2784

The Big Bad Wolf has nothing on these sturdy cardboard blocks. They're easy to assemble, and they're lightweight so even the youngest builders can construct their dream home. Bright colors mean endless combinations. Blocks come in several different sizes. Includes 40 blocks.

Cardboard Blocks
These sturdy blocks can be stacked high for endless combinations.
This 40-piece set takes the blah out of blocks, especially for kids who create best with lots of pieces, lots of color, and lots of space. A staple item in many preschools, this set can spark endless imaginative play as children build large, life-size structures. Kids will find plenty of ways to construct forts, bridges, walls, chairs, and more with the easy to assemble pieces. Three different size blocks offer a strong building foundation as well as a starting point for kids to conceptualize math (one large red block is the same size as two medium blue blocks or four small yellow blocks, adding blocks, counting blocks, etc.). The blocks also help develop large motor skills and teamwork.

Made from heavy grade cardboard, these blocks are lightweight enough for small architects to lift and connect, but strong enough to support those same builders standing or sitting on them. Kids with a knack for construction and creative play will be enraptured by these bright red, yellow, and blue blocks for hours. The 40-piece set is made up of eight large red blocks (12" x 6" x 3"), eight medium blue blocks (6" x 6" x 3"), and 24 small yellow blocks (6" x 3" x 3").

Features:

  • Sturdy cardboard
  • 40 pieces
  • Endless building combinations
  • Recommended Age Range 2 Years and up

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Monopoly Electronic Banking Edition

List price: $39.99
Lowest new price: $19.99
Brand: Hasbro
Model: 114

Now players can experience the most current version of Monopoly with an electronic banking unit instead of cash. A truly fun experience which utilizes today's trend of a cashless society.

The Monopoly Electronic Banking Edition game combines the best of classic Monopoly with updated electronic transactions. As with the original version, players still operate with money, learn real-world economics, competition and strategy, try to stay out of jail, and try their best to get filthy rich. But this version has been updated to reflect changes in how the real world uses money: All transactions are conducted with Monopoly's new banking card system. Anyone from age 8 and up will enjoy this updated version of one of the world's most famous games. Uses two "AAA" batteries, not included.

Includes gameboard, electronic banker unit, title deed cards, chance and community chest cards, 6 debit cards, 2 dice, 6 modern tokens - Segway Personal Transporter, Baseball Cap, Altoids Tin, Space Shuttle, Flat-Screen TV and Dog in Handbag, 32 houses, 12 hotels and instructions. Anyone from age 8 and up will enjoy this updated version of one of the world's most famous games. Uses two "AAA" batteries, not included.

The Monopoly Electronic Banking Edition game combines the best of classic Monopoly with updated electronic transactions. As with the original version, players still operate with money, learn real-world economics, competition and strategy, try to stay out of jail, and try their best to get filthy rich. But this version has been updated to reflect changes in how the real world uses money: All transactions are conducted with Monopoly's new banking card system. Anyone from age 8 and up will enjoy this updated version of one of the world's most famous games.



Updated from the original game, the Banking Edition features updated tokens, money system, and more. View larger.


This version of Monopoly features bank card accounts. View larger.
Classic Fun with Modern Twists
Aside from the electronic banking, the basic rules of this game have not changed from the Monopoly everybody remembers. Tokens, houses, hotels, chance and community chest cards, cardboard property deeds -- if you've played the classic version, you'll know how to play. The board is different in how it folds up in the box, but once you spread it out, it's the same.

The tokens have changed to reflect today's culture. Instead of irons and racing cars, the tokens depict modern icons such as a Segway and a tin of Altoids. Instead of railroads, there are airports. The utilities are Internet service providers and cell phone services. Properties have also been updated -- from the upscale blue Times Square to the economy purple Texas Stadium. In this game, you can go to jail for identity theft or lose $1 million when a virus infects your computer network. And of course, property values are exponentially higher than in the original game.

The big switch, of course, is the electronic banking. Each player starts with $15 million in their bank card account, and the banker adds amounts (such as when the player passes go) or subtracts (such as when the player pays to get out of jail) by inserting the player's card in the plus or minus slot of the Banker Unit. When one player has to pay another player, the banker debits or credits each account as appropriate.

Monopoly for Right Now
The electronic banking is neat and easy to handle, and as an added educational bonus, the player who takes on the banker role will quickly become familiar with basic bookkeeping concepts. The bank cards operate more like debit than credit, so players will learn responsible money management, not how to run up credit card debt.

This version of Monopoly doesn't play significantly differently than the original. The game can still take hours to play, and the instructions offer several alternatives for those who want speedier play. The updates introduce a few elements of surprise along the way, but for the most part it's still the same great Monopoly that will provide the same kind of family fun with some surprising, up-to-date twists.

Pros

  • Same basic game play, but with up-to-date references
  • Electronic banking works well, easy to learn
  • Teaches responsible money management
  • Fun for both kids and adults
Cons
  • Player customizations might not work with the new version
  • Updated references will eventually become out of date, too
What's in the Box
Game board, electronic Banker Unit, 6 tokens, 28 title deed cards, 16 chance cards, 16 community chest cards, 6 Monopoly bank cards, 32 houses, 12 hotels, and 2 dice.

Features:

  • Features a gameboard
  • Comes with title deed cards, chance and community chest cards, 6 debit cards, 2 dice, 6 tokens, 32 houses, 12 hotels and instructions
  • For ages 8 and above
  • Comes with board, Banker Unit, tokens, title deed cards, chance cards, community chest cards, Monopoly bank cards, houses, hotels, dice
  • For ages 8 to 127

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Razor A Kick Scooter (Green)

List price: $39.99
Lowest new price: $27.12
Brand: Razor
Model: 13003A-GR

The Razor A Scooter is the original kick scooter. Updated deck design with aircraft grade aluminum t-tube and deck. Patented rear fender brake and patented folding mechanism that creates easier storage. Weighs only six pounds and easy to fold and carry.

The original kick scooter, the Razor A is a handy little ride for kids and teens alike. Though it'll never replace the internal combustion engine, the scooter will get your child from point A to point B much quicker than on foot alone, and requires just a few scoots of one's shoes in the process. Plus, it's a blast to use, as your progeny will likely attest.

The Razor A is built of aircraft-grade aluminum, a sturdy material that holds up to use and abuse through the years. Its T-tube and deck, meanwhile, fold up into a compact footprint, so riders can fit the scooter inside a bag or carry it at their side when riding isn't appropriate (it weighs around 6 pounds). And thanks to the 98 mm inline-style urethane wheels, ABEC 5 bearings, and patented rear fender brake, riders will always feel smooth and in control when kicking along the sidewalk.

Recommended for ages 5 and older, this version of the Razor A sports green handlebars, a green deck logo, and green wheels, with a max rider weight of 143 pounds. It's also backed by a six-month warranty. For the next step up, try the Razor A2 Scooter.

Key Features:

  • For riders ages 5 and older
  • Sturdy aluminum construction
  • Weighs approximately six pounds
  • Retractable kickstand
  • Rear fender brake
  • Patented folding mechanism
  • 143-pound user weight capacity
  • Six-month warranty

The buyer and rider of the Razor A scooter are responsible for knowing and obeying all local, state, and federal regulations regarding the riding and use of scooters.

The standard Razor scooter has stuck around long enough to safely move out of the realm of fad status. This slick model, constructed of aircraft grade aluminum, sports 98 mm urethane wheels with ABEC 5 bearings and a rear fender brake. To afford greater portability, it sports collapsible handlebars and folds neatly. Some might choose to own the Razor as a transportation option since it makes for a neat commuting supplement to public transportation or the school bus. But it’s also just a neat little thing to have around the house for the occasional spin down the sidewalk or out to the local park. --Charlie Williams

Features:

  • Original kick scooter made of sturdy aircraft-grade aluminum with green highlights
  • Patented T-tube and deck design folds conveniently for transport
  • 98 mm inline-style urethane wheels with ABEC 5 bearings
  • Patented rear fender brake for quick stops; weighs only 6 pounds
  • Recommended for ages 5 and older; 6-month warranty

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LeapFrog Clickstart My First Computer

List price: $44.99
Lowest new price: $31.99
Brand: LeapFrog
Model: 22325

LeapFrog's ClickStart My First Computer is the first preschool learning system featuring a desktop experience that looks and works like a grownup PC. The ClickStart platform turns any TV into a child's first computer, simultaneously introducing core preschool skills and basic computer functionality. A friendly green puppy named Scout accompanies little ones on their learning journeys, appearing on the wireless keyboard with automatic shut-off as well as in onscreen games and activities.

Rich with content, ClickStart My First Computer offers exciting games as well as engaging software applications that work together to help kids earn treats for their friend Scout. Includes wireless keyboard with automatic shut-off, cartridge based console, child-sized mouse and right or left hand adjustable mouse pad. Requires 4 "AA" batteries and 4 "C" batteries (not included). Measures 16" x 8".

The LeapFrog ClickStart My First Computer introduces tots to the wonders of the PC and helps them learn basic computer skills. Ideal for ages three through six, this interactive toy plugs right into the television and teaches youngsters how to use a mouse and keyboard.

A Child-Friendly Design
The ClickStart features a child-friendly wireless keyboard, plug and play console, and a child-sized mouse with a right- or-left-handed adjustable mouse pad. It transforms the TV into a PC, which allows kids to work on a big screen and the whole family to join in on the fun. The miniature mouse is perfectly formed for little fingers to point and click. Large, colored buttons make it easy for kids to learn basic keystrokes, and four friendly games create a safe, age-appropriate environment to navigate. ClickStart is built to withstand rough toddler handling, a plus for parents who want to spare their high-end desktops from child's play. And the wireless keyboard is light and convenient to transport from place to place, so kids can bring the fun with them wherever they go.



Transform your TV into a PC for your child, complete with wireless keyboard and mouse. View larger.


Your child can click any of the icons on the desktop to play a game and learn.
Encourages Age-Appropriate Learning
It is never too early to teach children the correct way to use a computer. The ClickStart ensures that a child's first computing experience is age appropriate and pleasant, with engaging games that not only enhance basic computer skills, but prepare children for pre-school and kindergarten. This educational tool has four games that teach phonics, letters, animal facts, and counting, while sharpening a child's screen navigation skills. Friendly puppy Scout guides kids through keyboard functions and allows them to work at their own pace. Techno tots can click on a faux in-box to receive their first e-mail; it even has sound for nonreaders. Should the youngster ever become stumped, a hint button gives them a clue. Additional ClickStart software packages, sold separately, feature well-known characters such as Thomas the Tank Engine, Dora the Explorer, and Nemo.

What's in the Box
Wireless keyboard, plug and play console, mouse and mouse pad, and 4 learning games are built into the system. (Batteries are not included)

Features:

  • Turns television into a learning computer and teaches how to use mouse and keyboard and to navigate screens
  • Miniature mouse for little fingers to point and click; colored buttons to help learn keystrokes
  • Four learning games teach phonics, letters, animal facts, counting, and computer skills
  • Includes wireless keyboard, plug and play console, mouse and mouse pad

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