The Marvelous Toy
What’s inside...
A unique offering of a book and CD, recorded by Tom Paxton, and a major publishing event! For nearly half a century, 'The Marvelous Toy'--composed by the legendary singer/songwriter Tom Paxton--has enchanted children and adults alike. A simple tale about a mysterious, magical, and mystical toy that a father gives to his son--and that eventually gets passed down to the next generation--it celebrates a child's sense of wonder. The witty, evocative lyrics spark the imagination. The song has been recorded by countless major artists, from Peter, Paul, and Mary to the Chad Mitchell Trio to John Denver, and won legions of fans through the years. Paxton's marvelous song has finally become a stunning picture book--oversized, wonderfully packaged, and complete with a CD offering three songs sung by Tom himself plus a music-only version of 'The Marvelous Toy' to sing along with. Featuring incredible and wildly imaginative art by Steve Cox, illustrator of the award-winning PIGS MIGHT FLY, the story is now as amazing to look at as it always has been to listen to. Parents, grandparents, friends, and family worldwide will remember this classic from their own youth--and joyfully share it with their own children. And just like the boy in the song whose 'eyes nearly popped right out of his head,' young readers will give 'squeals of glee' at the magic of the music, the artwork, and this one-of-kind tale.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
28 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes the toy in the story marvelous?
How do you think the boy felt when he first saw the toy, and why?
Can you imagine your own marvelous toy? What special abilities would it have?
Why do you think the toy was passed down through generations?
How do toys and games connect us with other people?
Tip: Role play these questions
Show genuine interest in your child’s responses and encourage them to elaborate on their thoughts.
Relate the story to your child’s own experiences with toys to make the conversation more personal and engaging.
Ask your child to draw or describe their imaginary marvelous toy, fostering creativity and deeper connection to the story.
Discuss the feelings and emotions of different characters in the book to enhance empathetic understanding.
Share your own story of a favorite toy from your childhood to build a bond and show that you value their insights.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: The story follows a child's fascination with a mysterious toy, showcasing the joys and wonders of discovering something new.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore the world around them and ask questions, fostering a love for learning and discovery.
Example Lesson: Generational Bonding
Explanation: The toy passes from father to son, illustrating the deep connections formed through shared experiences across generations.
Real-World Application: Promotes spending quality family time, sharing stories and experiences that strengthen familial bonds.
Example Lesson: Imagination and Creativity
Explanation: The toy’s ambiguous nature spurs the child’s imagination, as it appears different each time it’s encountered.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to use their creativity and envision possibilities beyond the obvious, enhancing creative thinking skills.
Example Lesson: Joy in Simplicity
Explanation: The toy is described in simple terms but brings immense joy, teaching that happiness often lies in simple pleasures.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to find joy in the simple things around them, reducing materialistic tendencies and fostering gratitude.
Example Lesson: Accepting Mystery
Explanation: The toy’s functions are never fully explained, symbolizing the acceptance of the unknown.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand that not everything can be explained or understood, promoting comfort with uncertainty and the unknown.