Jenkins, Emily. Toys Go Out.

[heather]

I would like to suggest Toys Go Out for the list. These toys have more than Edward Tulane, they can MOVE! And oh, what fun they have.

[Mary]

This is certainly a very unique story. I have some concerns about how the story is presented and whether the writing is consistently intended for the same audience throughout the book, but Heather is right... these characters have fun! (My favorite character was Frank, the Washing Machine. Who was yours?)

[martha]

I thought the story was rather pointless. I don't understand why it's getting good reviews.

[DianeB]

I always felt that toys (dolls and stuffed animals) came to life when you are not looking. But, it was hard to believe that a rubber ball, a towel, and a washing machine are alive and conversing with each other. Although, I like the completely different personailites and how they get along with each other.

[Tess]

If inanimate objects are going to talk to each other, I like that all of them talk, whether or not they talk to each other (for example, Lumphy telling Frank that Tuk-Tuk probably doesn't know Frank can talk). It is a wonderfully written story of friendships among many different person(ifcation)alities. One of my favorite sections is between Frank and the Dryer, beginning on page 106, after Lumphy is told that he should give Little Girl a present:
"Rrgaaaah," says the Dryer, interrupting.
"She wishes she could go to the party," explains Frank. "We never go anywhere." He drains out his water tank and starts the spin cycle. "It's the loneliest life."
"Mrrrmmmnnnnh," says the Dryer soothingly."Mrrmnnaaaaah."
"True," says Frank. "We have each other."

As a kid who always heard music, songs and words in washing machines, dryers, clocks and such, I found this book exceptional. I bet the Dryer talks that way because of the socks she's eating.