The Real Toy Story

In this summary you will learn

• How the toy industry works, how big it is and how it is structured
• What process marketing follows, from a toy's conception to its delivery for Christmas sales
• How young toy industry workers in the Far East and Mexico are mistreated and exploited

getAbstract rating

Why you should read The Real Toy Story

This is almost a fun book. It goes into the magic behind all the toys you've enjoyed personally or given to your kids or grandchildren. And, it will intrigue anybody who's ever wrangled with a Rubik’s Cube, hugged a Gund Bear or become rich speculating in Mattel shares way back when Barbie was a girl. But, after the fun part, the book hits you in the gut. There's a nasty side to the toy business and author Eric Clark lays it out clearly as he describes child laborers who make toys in Third World sweat shops, particularly in China and Mexico. getAbstract recommends this book to anyone who buys toys for children, or to those who want to know about child labor and address its abuses. With its illuminating examination of invention, manufacture and retailing in the toy industry, this is a valuable resource.

About the Author

Eric Clark is a journalist and has written five novels.