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Rocket shoes.
Plastic teeth that go Yakity-Yak.
A monkey that flings banana scented poo.ย
Itโs obvious toymakers have a great sense of humor but even the most imaginative person would have trouble coming up with an idea for a toy every child might like for Christmas.
So, how do they do it?
โI wish I could tell you more about the creative process but so much that I do Iโve been doing for so long,โ said Eddy Goldfarb, who invented more than 800 iconic toys during a career that spans 80 years and is now the subject of a new award-winning short documentary โEddyโs World.โ
As he explains in the film airing on PBS stations throughout the country and streaming on PBS.org and the PBS App starting Dec. 2., when he sees something, an idea pops into his head or when he sees a need, he will invent something to fill that need.ย ย
His Merry Go Sip is a good example.ย
In 1949, when mothers were having trouble getting their children to drink their milk Goldfarb came up with the idea for a drinking-cup-and-straw combo that had three animals on its top that would spin as a child sipped.ย
TOY REVIEWS: โBarbieโ and other hit movies inspire a spike in toy sales
It was one of three inventions he debuted at the American Toy Fair in New York City. He and his business partner at the time, also showcased a toy chicken that laid plastic eggs; no doubt a model for todayโs doo-doo candy dispensers. While the sippy cup was a big hit with moms, what really launched his career was his third toy; a set of chattering plastic teeth, powered by a windup metal motor. Yakity Yak was one of those toy ideas that popped into his head after seeing an advertisement for a container that holds false teeth.
โWhen it comes to toys and games anything can give me an idea,โ said Goldfarb, who still gets a kick out of seeing a child playing with a toy he invented.
โThe newest is Forklift Frenzy (8-up, $34.99) and Kerplunk (5-up, $22.95) is still being sold,โ he added proudly. โIt really does make me feel good and I, I think they were important and there are even the collectors, the ones who collect Stompers, that makes me feel good too. Yeah. I feel itโs an accomplishment.โ
As for modern inventions, Goldfarb said he really admires 3D printers.
โI think they are amazing machines,โ said Goldfarb, whose daughter, Lyn Goldfarb directed the documentary coming out in December. โThey make them for children too. it could be wonderful for kids.โ
At the age of 102, Goldfarb is still pulling out a pencil and drawing prototype toys that come to mind, before heading into his shop, to invent what he imagined will bring some joy to peopleโs lives.
Just as the small solar powered toys that he and his late wife, Anita, collected added a little sunshine to theirs.ย ย
โI love the idea that itโs right in front of us, all the power we need on earth, itโs shining every day for us and itโs just a reminder that we have to harness sun power in a much, much bigger way,โ Goldfarb said, encouraging the next generation of toy inventors.
For those who are considering their future career Goldfarb believes the noblest profession to be teaching, especially lower grade levels. Next to that he would say toy making.
โThe toy industryโs a noble industry,โ Golfarb said. โItโs like the teaching industry. When you sold the successful games, say you sold a million games for that year, that meant a million families were playing that game with their kids. That was good for the family. Toys are educational. You learn from games. You learn from toys just like you learn from books.โ
What toys parents bring home depends a lot on the family, child and their interests. To help narrow the search here is a review of the seasonโs hottest new toys. Some were tested by our team of toy testing tykes and others were suggested by experts in the field:
Infant-upย
Bababoo and Friends: Best Friend Bababoo Plush Toy (infant-up, $27.99) and little book is adorable. Made by a company out of Germany it features quality fabric and stitching with arms and legs that little hands can hold and drag along because this lion is sure to become a best friend.ย
Storypod Starter Kit (birth-101, $99.99) by Craftie Fox is a unique audio player for little ones designed by educators. How it works: Kids just tap special content items on the Storyboard speaker to play age-appropriate audio content. Jack, 5, loved listening to the three little pigs. Each kit includes a player that little hands can carry along, as well as Storypod characters and a Story Sticker so parents can record a story, sing songs or even record memories of when they were a child. Jack was especially excited about the characters that came with the player and the different songs they played when placed on top of the Storypod. Add to the experience with further recordable stickers, 180 minutes long ($11.99 pack of three). Five Stars!
Montessori Mirror Shape Sorter Puzzle (10-months-up, $14.99) from Hape. Each piece features a soft ball on top that makes it easy to grip. Lift the piece up to reveal the mirror underneath. This toy is also organic, made from rice, and has a pleasant smell.
Wild Republic Stuggleluvs Polar Bear (infant-up, $43.99) is a soft plush toy with a weighted bum so it can sit up and listen when a story is told. We presented it to a 4-year-old for testing but it was Jack, 5, who clamped onto the polar bear and would not let it go. He loved the size (itโs quite big) and that it sat up and watched him draw. Five Stars!
My First Comic Soft Book: Batman by Kids Preferred (infant-up, $15 ) would make a great baby shower gift for someone who loves superheroes or comics. The cute book features two characters that are removable but attached and crinkle peek-a-boo flaps. Katie liked the softness of the book and how real the characters appeared to be.ย
Disney Friends 6 Pack Plush Toys Set (newborn-up, $74.99) features Mickey, Minnie and the rest of the gang that children love together as a group. Each plush features hand fasteners so kids can join the hands and play with them as a group or separately. Our testers, ages 2 and 3, loved the toy, plain and simple as it was.ย
Arctic Polar Bear Stacking Blocks (24-months, $19.99) is a wonderful addition to Hapeโs collection of wooden toys for babies. Set comes with two polar bears and five stacking arches that are easy for little hands to grip.ย
Bizyboo Hide โNโ Seek Busy Bags (2-up, $8.99-$19.99) by Vango Toys was a big hit with our 9-year-old tester. Each character features tiny objects hidden inside. Children use their observation and problem-solving skills (squishing and turning the toy) to find the objects hidden within each character. Andrea said it was challenging and fun. Five Stars!
Elmo Slide from Sesame Street (2-up, $39.97) this seasonโs version of the always popular toy speaks English and Spanish, sings, dances and will even play a game of โSimon Says.โ Our toy testing teacher loved the toy, as did the 4- and 5-year-old students in her class. They loved the music, Elmoโs dance moves and how he talks. TOY HISTORY: Elmo has been a part of The Macomb Dailyโs toy test since it began shortly after the first โTickle Me Elmoโ set off a frenzy to find it in time for the holidays.ย ย
Tonka Chuck by Basic Fun (2-up, $29.99) is a dump truck with four sensors on the hat, hood, bumper and gas tank that come to life making sounds and phrases. Linton, 4, liked the colors and found several ways to use the truck during playtime. Our toy-testing teacher said itโs not as sturdy as the traditional metal Tonka truck but much safer.
SpillAgain (0-2, $44.99) from Fat Brain Toys is a great way to keep toddlers busy. All of the fun is in the suspense. Kids fill the top of the tower with 16 colorful balls and then press a button that starts a timer. Then click, the balls fall out and the child scrambles to pick them up and do it all over again.
6-In-1 Tunnel of Fun (0-2, $65) by VTech is a toy that will grow with the child. Babies can lie in the tunnel and bat at dangling toys, crawl through the vibrant tunnel or play the piano and chase a sibling in and out of the tunnel. Five Stars!
Naturalistaโs Littlelistas Baby Lily (2-up, $24.99) by Purpose Toys is adorable and likely a doll that will last through hours of tea parties, baths, and every other adventure that comes along. Lily features a cute dress and two crowns, one for her and one to fit a friend.ย
Age 3-up
Theodora STEAM Girls (3-up, $59.99): Elaine The Aspiring Engineer was a big hit with Shawna and Debbie, who loved that she was a girl engineer. They also enjoyed the book that comes with the 15-inch doll. Their teacher said she would create more dolls in the line and with different nationalities. What she didnโt know is that they have done so. There are 5 dolls in the line:ย all featuring different backgrounds, with different superpowers, and a different STEAM subject.ย Five Stars!
Magformers Creative Play (3-up, $119) is a STEAM construction kit featuring 74 magnetic pieces that come together to create towers, houses and whatever else the builder dreams up. Its shapes are great for small fingers to handle and the pieces connect immediately.ย ย
Barbie Pop Reveal Doll from Mattel (3-up, $19.99) was a big hit with Kate, 9, although she did say it was difficult to open. Once revealed she loved the doll and accessories that came inside including the slime. Choose from a variety of dolls revealed in this line inspired by fruity flavors. Stella, 2, also loved the little kitten that was included along with a Barbie doll.
Barbie Fashionista Dolls (3-up, $10.99-$22.99) feature Barbie and Ken in a variety of fashions, looks and hairstyles. Zac, 10, who has a Ken doll at home said he loved the version of the Barbie he tested. Nishil, 9, said she loved that this version of Barbie was flexible so you can imagine her doing all sorts of things.ย ย
Abena 14โณ Doll by Janice Kenyatta (infant-up, $24.99) was inspired by the book โJust As It Is!โ about a little African American girl whose parents inspired her early in life to love and appreciate her natural features including her hair. Our 5 and 6-year-old toy testers loved Abena just as she is, her clothes, her hair and how soft and cuddly she was to touch. In fact the boys want their own version of the doll. Five Stars!
Naturalistas Fade Collection Greg (3-up, $12.99) from Purpose Toys is a stylish realistic doll featuring a short Caesar haircut with a temple fade and fashionable apparel including high-top sneakers and a cool messenger bag. ย
Storytime Backgamon (3-103, $39.99) from Thinking Cup Games, who are also the makers of Storytime Chess teaches young children how to play the game of Backgammon. The game box was difficult to open but that was the only complaint. Ying, 9, said the stories were great and once it was out of the box the game was fun to play. Five Stars!
Netflix Sonic Prime action figures (3-up, $9,99-$14.99).Isaha, 9, said he didnโt care for the toy but felt that some kids might like it, especially kids who watch the show and are fans of the characters. He did suggest making the figure more flexible.
Moosh-Moosh Soft Plus Buddies (3-up, $18.99) are still the rage among toddlers and tweens. Our testers got a look at some of the newest Moosh-Moosh buds including Rayn, Ana, Chewmoca, Dawn, Dozer, Maya, Napoleon,Nebula,Sebbie, Skipper, Taz and Turbo.ย ย
GooGames (3-up, $9.99) from Sky Castle were a big hit with our 9-year-old testers. Henry and Anna both said these were fun and very entertaining. These handheld sensory water games come in a variety of different styles and themes like GooGames Candy Craze where you guide glittering sprinkles in an ice cream cone bucket TIP for Santa: Make it even better by adding some sounds to the game.ย
Bumpas Weighted Plush from Good Soul Brands (3-up, $34.99) was a big hit with our toy-testing teacher and two of her students, Sharma and Tamera. The teacher loved how it provides a positive way to calm a student while they just loved hugging the cute little character. Five Stars!
Radio Flyerโs Toy Little Red Wagon (3-up, $28.99) is still a great toy for boys and even girls who want to haul their toys around, take Dollie for a ride or go for a ride themselves.ย History of the toy: The little red wagon was invented by Antonio Pasin, a young Italian who came to the United States in 1914. According to Radio Flyerโs history the young carpenter was inspired by the leaps of innovation being made all over the country, including where he lived in Chicago and decided to start his own company. After renting a one-room workshop on the cityโs west side, Pasin started designing and producing handmade furniture, as well as wooden tricycles and wagons for children. His first line of wooden wagons sold as quickly as he could build them. He called his creation the Liberty Coaster, which later became the iconic Radio Flyerโs Original Little Red Wagon
Winnieโs & Pigletโs Tree House (3-up, $49.99) is a wonderful little playset that comes with different items they can sort into the treetop by shape and color. Its design helps to develop fine motor skills and three-dimensional thinking. Our 4-year-old testers, Alex and Riley, enjoyed the toy but did not want to share it and it is a small playset. Best case scenario: pair it up with another set or figures when thereโs more than one player.
Age 4-up
Magic Whispers: Luna (4-up, $24.99 ) is an interactive plush featuring 100 plus secret phrases and sounds.Everyone can hear Luna meow and purr but with a press of the kittyโs glowing crystal heart kids will hear the secret phrases and sounds. Our tester who has a cat of her own said the toy was super cute and a nice size for children. Other testers said they had trouble hearing it. TIP: Santa needs to crank up the volume.
Squinkies Cupcake Surprise Bake Shop (4-up, $34.99) was a big hit with Maya, 9-soon-to-be-10. She said turning the dispenser was hard because the ball had to be in the hole in order for it to come out. This should have been explained in the directions. However, she loved the little characters and how it looked. โIt was so cute,โ she said. Ilana, 6, who had difficulty with the dispenser too said it was a colorful toy and wished it came with more Squinkies.ย ย
Mobo Cruiser: Mobo Explorer X (4-6, $99) from ASA Products is a balance bike designed for adventurous kids. The durable frame is designed to withhold standing, rigging or gliding. It also features an adjustable seat. Great starter bike that can be handed down from one sibling to another.
Style BAE Fashions That Stick: K-Pop Princess Kiki (4-up, $20) by Just Play is a unique doll that comes with 850 reusable stickers for fashionable fun. You just peel, stick and style the doll to your liking. Other dolls include: Y2K Gurl Dylan, Pop Punk Star Kenzie and Streetwear Queen Harper.
Playmobil Rainbow Castle in the Clouds: (4-10, $99) was difficult for our 9-year-old testers to put together, very difficult in fact. So, parental supervision may be required for younger players. However, once it was done Anna said she loved how it looked and the fun she had playing with the set afterwards. She really liked the cute little drinks and food that came with the set. Esti also said she loved how magical it looked when it was all put together. Tip for Santa: Add more people. They expected the set to have five people instead of only three. Pair this with Playmobil My Figures: Magic Dance (5-10, $34.99) also proved to be a construction challenge for our 9-year-old testers, Anna and Isabel, as there are lots of pieces but they liked that it allowed them to be creative. Still, both girls found it fun.ย
Monkey See,Monkey Poo Game (4-up, $19.99) by Spin Master Games is a silly game that capitalizes on kidsโ fascination with poo, in this case a banana scented version that they fling while collecting bananas to win the game. Our toy-testing teacher had trouble assembling the toy and felt it could be sturdier but her students found it to be a fun game. They especially liked how the monkey โpoodโ into its hand and threw it.ย
Bene (pronounced benny) Buddies: Sparkle the Dog (4-up, $39.99) and
Seawhee the Turtle ($39.99) are cuddly toys that inspire an interest in animals while also teaching lessons. The first-graders at Huron Elementary who tested the toy liked the colors and the stories that teach sharing, cooperation and kindness. They also liked that you get coins when you make a good choice. Five Stars!
DC Stunt Force Batmobile R/C by Spin Master (4-15, $39.99) was a big hit with Ashley and Anthony, who are both 8. They said it was very fast and light. At first they questioned the material used in making it but realized being lightweight makes it fast. The foam tires also ensure a thrilling ride over surfaces such as hardwood floors, carpets, rocks and more. It is built to hold an action figure so kids can imagine themselves as the hero behind the wheel. Our testers also liked that the vehicle is rechargeable but said Santa should make the R/C rechargeable too.
Future Fans Football was launched in September by Watchitude Active (4-10, $59.99)ย and features a unique concept that introduces the sport of football to players of all ages by using three easy steps: read a book; play games (like ring toss or even eating cookies) and be fans together. Watch for more versions of different sports to come out soon. Our 9-year-old tester loved everything about the toy. It was fun, challenging and he liked that he could make up his own plays. Five Stars!
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem Pizzafire Delivery Van (4-up, $39) by Nickelodeon earned vehicle of the year among toymakers and was a smash hit with Daxton, 5, Stella, 2, and LJ, 3. Daxton played with the van and action figures including Leonardo, Donatello and Michelangelo, Raphael (4-up,ย ) on his own but they all had fun taking their turn in firing pizzas out of the side of the van. Parents who might not want to spend $40 can also look for TMNT figures that come with a pizza or sewer top firing gun ($14.99). TOY HISTORY: The first โTeenage Mutant Ninja Turtlesโ movie was released in 1990 creating a generation hooked on the reptilian superheroes, many of whom remain collectors of the toys. Five Stars!ย ย
Miraculous Volkswagen e-Beetle Vehicle by Playmates Toys (4-up, $34.99) looks just like the vehicle that zooms around in the movie. VW seats two Ladybug action figures and has moveable parts to create new adventures each time including a removable roof. Fans of the movie will love the vehicle and itโs a great pairing with the action dolls. Our 7 and 8-year-old testers said it was colorful and they liked its connection to the television series.ย
Miraculous Movie Ladybug Fashion Doll (4-up, $16,92) or Cat Noir Action Doll ($16.92) by Playmates. Casbar, 7, and Becker, 8, were excited about the toys because they like the TV show and are familiar with the characters.ย
Pandaโs Bamboo House (3-up, $149) is a bit pricey but itโs from Hape. Known for its craftsmanship Hapeโs panda playset is a great way to teach little ones about green energy and even pandas. The home features solar panels, an elevator basket and slide and it comes with accessories including figurines that can sit, stand and grip with their hands. Five Stars!ย
Ages 5-up
KerPlunk (5-up, $16.99) from Mattel Games is a blast from the past with a cool look and attitude. Each player selects a numbered compartment to use throughout the game and the straws are passed through holes midway of the tube to form a lattice. The marbles are then placed in the top of the tube and held in place by the web. Donโt let the marbles fall, is the object of the game. Tabletop versions ($5) also available. .ย
Bitzee Interactive Digital Pet (5-10, $39.99) from Spin Master is among the hot toys youโll want to grab early. The interactive toy is similar to the Tamagotchi digital pets of previous generations except it does not tragically die, if it doesnโt get enough attention. Pet it, put it down and Bitzee simply goes away until you pick it up again.
Jammโd by Watchitude (5-up, $25) Bluetooth Speaker is a mighty small speaker that makes it easy to play music wherever you are โ provided you have a cellular phone. Our 9-year-old tester did not but once his teacher got it going he enjoyed it. He especially liked that you could skip a song. Shaan also found it pretty easy to use except that it was hard to change the volume without changing the song. Tip for Santa: Make it so you can choose a song.
Plus Plus Puzzle By Numbers: Map of the United States (5-up, $9.99) was a huge hit with our toy testers. William, 10, and Ethan and Teddy, both age 9, who spent two days completing the puzzle. They said it was simple and fun to play. In fact he would not change a thing about it. โItโs perfect,โ said William. Five Stars!
DC Gotham City Guardian 4-in-1 Playset (5-up, $99) by Spin Master comes with three Batman vehicles including the Batwing, BatTank, Batcycle and Mobile Command Centre that combine to form one very large (30-inch) Mech Batman. Jack, 5, was super excited about testing the toy but had to wait 20 minutes for his assistant to apply the stickers. He had fun with the separate vehicles but could not disassemble the completed Batman without help. He thought the sounds and LED lights were also cool.
My Gnome On The Roam Family Adventure and Creativity Kit (5-up, $39.97) was a big hit with Katie, 5, who enjoyed the ability to decorate the gnome known as Gustav and other items in the kit including the โMy Gnome on the Roamโ storybook, adventure journal, adventure guide, all of which fit neatly into the traveling suitcase. Kids can decorate the pieces and then use their imagination for hours of play afterwards. It also comes with a magical pen. Katie also like that there was no assembly required. Other versions include the GNOME in His/Her Home Kit ($14.99), My Gnome on The Roam: An Artistโs Adventure Book ($17.99) that invites readers to create their own special works of art and encourages beautiful messes. Five Stars!
Lite Brite Super Bright HD by Basic Fun (6-up, $24.99) celebrates Disneyโs 100th anniversary with a dozen amazing templates for hours of fun. Kenley and Lavanda, 5, liked the way the pegs light up and that you can see what you created in the dark. One hint for Santa: Make a bigger version.ย TOY HISTORY: In 1966, a New York city window display featuring hundreds of colored lights inspired toy creators Marvin Glass, Henry Stan, and Burt Meyer to come up with a plaything employing this concept. To simplify and streamline the idea, they reduced the light source to a 25-watt light bulb. Their design placed a perforated plastic panel in front of the bulb and covered the panel with a simple sheet of black construction paper. When colored translucent plastic pegs were inserted through the paper, they made an illuminated picture. Lite Brite is among the classic toys inducted in the National Museum of Play. That first version in 1967 has been updated to a new version for every generation since.ย
Transformers: Rise of the Beasts Movie Bumblebee 2-in-1 Converting Mask (6-10, $34.99) from Hasbro has been a big hit among moviegoers anxious to step into the role of a heroic autobot. Our 8-year-old testers, Anthony and Ashley, found the directions difficult and were afraid the plastic would break but others said the material made it easier for younger kids to transform it from a figure to a mask. Tip: Find a way to hide the head strap once it transforms into an autobot.
Kids Pickleball Set from Watchitude Move (6-up, $35) was a big hit with our 7 and 8-year-old testers. They had some difficulty setting up the net, so this might require a parentโs help, but the class testing the toy loved the game thatโs a little bit like tennis and ping pong combined. The kit comes with a 10โฒ net, two kid-size paddles and two pickleballs and it all fits neatly into a nice carrying case. Good toy for the price. Five Stars!
Tech Deck Transforming Park by The Berrics (6-up, $49.99) comes with all the accessories needed to transform the container into a skate park. Parents will love that the skate park transforms back into a container for all of the accessories. Hudson and Henry, both 9, liked that it came with a skateboard but said it could have used a second one and better instructions on how to put it all together. Even still, Henry said it was cool.
Pictureka Giant Edition (6-up, $9.99) from Spin Master. Players must find things fast and then shout out if they found them. Itโs a noisy game but it can be played indoors or outside. Audrey and Anna challenged their teacher, Darrin Winkler, to a game. All three of them said it was challenging and fun. Plus, the game goes fast so you can play it over and over. Five Stars!ย
The Mars Rover Clixo Pack (6-99, $44.99) by Toyish Labs is a glow-in-the-dark ๏ฌexible magnetic building experience designed for imaginative minds. Our 9-year-old testers, Henry, Jack and Milan found the instructions unclear but Tomas, 10, had no trouble at all. All of the boys loved the fact that it comes with all-terrain wheels, ๏ฌre blasters, and custom pieces, that they could assemble, take apart, and then reassemble into something different. They also liked that its pieces glow in the dark. Other versions include: The Ocean Creatures Clixo Pack ($34.99) featuring parts to build underwater wonders that glow in the dark. Five Stars!
ItCoinz Ambassador Pack (7-up, $10) are magnetic palm size coins with vivid images that players use on a battle game board, which comes in four cool styles. The magnetic battle discs can spin, smash, battle and duel. How kids play with them is left to the imagination, although our 9-year-old tester, William, would have liked the toy better had there been directions or ideas on how to play the game. He did say it was unique and that the coins were cool.ย
Bears! Dice Game (7-up, $19.99) by Fireside Games. Both Jameson, 10, and Jack, 9, had fun playing this fast-paced game, in which everyone rolls their dice and then tries to make pairs. Players score points by pairing dice to shoot bears, run and hide, or take a risk and score big by sleeping through the attack. Five Stars!ย
Age 8-up
Castle Panic Second Edition (8-up, $34.95) by Fireside Games. So popular was the first tower-defense game that a second and improved version has been introduced featuring new art, custom die and heavier cardstock. Our 9-year-old testers Jameson and Alvin found it difficult to set up and too hard to play. This might be more suitable for children 10-up or as for family game night.
Spy Labs Incorporated Master Detective Toolkit (8-up, $49.95) from Thames and Kosmos. Our toy testers were very excited to give it a try but extremely disappointed to discover the instructions were missing. So, they gave it a thumbs down. Those who have reviewed it said their child had fun, although one reviewer criticized the quality of the items inside. Tip for Santa: Improve upon the fingertip powder and fingertip lifting tape.ย
Rubikโs Coach Cube (8-up, $14.99) includes a step-by-stp guide and solves quicker stickers to help beginners grasp the concept of completing the cube. William, 9, liked the idea of a toy that could teach him how to solve the puzzle but found the directions confusing.ย ย
Faction Skyfire Tactical Target Drone (8-up, $35) was a big hit with our toy tester. The drone flies by itself on auto-pilot, levitating and maneuvering to avoid your attacks, should you choose to use a Faction Gel Blaster to bring it down. Teddy, 9, loved how the drone hovered in place. Drone piloting toys are a good learning tool. This one shows kids how the objects work, look, react and sometimes fail.
Kโnex Marble Coaster Run by Basic Fun (8-up, $49.99) features 504 pieces and a motor that come together to create a marble roller coaster. Mason, 10, who tackled this toy said thereโs no way the kid on the box put it together on his own. โHis engineer dad must be taking the photo,โ Mason said. However, he did have fun using the parts to make smaller contraptions he designed on his own and other reviews by older players said it was great.ย ย
Skyfire Target Drone (8-up, $30.99) works with or without the app. Our 9-year-old toy tester liked that it was made for all ages and that it flew up in the air, just fine. It was bringing it down that he found a little challenging.ย ย
Penn & Teller Magic Lab (8-up, $69.99) by Abacus Brands is for kids who seriously love to do magic tricks. The kit comes with virtual reality goggles so kids can see Penn & Teller perform 28 tricks and explain how they too can be magic superstars. If thatโs not enough it also comes with a 50-page step-by-step instruction book to go along with a 75-piece magic kit. Now sit back and enjoy the show!
Harry Potter The Battle of Hogwarts (9-up, $79.99) from Lego features a buildable castle (730 pieces) and six figures to recreate the famous standoff between Voldemort and Harry Potter from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows, Part 2. Pair the set with the books and other HP playsets, which are still on the hot list.ย
Here, Kitty, Kitty!ย (10-up, $29.95) is a new game from Fireside Games. Our 10-year-old toy tester found the concept of cat-collecting interesting but the game itself very confusing. Also, it only came with one scorecard so you have to make copies to play it as a group. Might be better for older players or as a game for the family.
Exit: The Stormy Flight (10-up, $14.99) is another version of the award winning game. Players must solve riddles and puzzles and crack codes to escape from an imaginary room or environment. But the clock is ticking! Can you or your team escape? Great addition for family game night.ย
What kids would invent if anything was possible?ย
Every year new toys are invented by people such as Eddy Goldfarb. This year we asked our group of toy-testing tykes if they could make anything possible, what kind of toy would they invent. Here are some of the toys, gadgets and gizmos that our toy-testing tykes said they would invent:ย ย ย
โข Anna Weiner, 9, said she would invent a magical closet for her Barbie dolls. In order to change an outfit all you would have to do is write down what type of clothing you want Barbie to wear, slip it into a slot and that outfit would appear in the closet.
โข Jack Weiner, 9, said he would create an electric jet. Its nose would be orange, its body would be blue and it would have two seats like in a fighter plane. Oh, and the wings would have lights running along the edge of them.
โข Imagine a drone big enough to pick you up? Thatโs what Teddy Drazin, 9, would make and it would be remote-controlled so it would carry you anywhere you wanted to go. .
โข Milan Zdravkovski, 9, said he would make a cute toy dog. It would be the size of a normal dog with realistic brown hair and it would make noise like a real dog.ย
โข Why is all slime green? If Maya Patel, 9, had her way she would invent a machine that had a handle that you would turn to make super-gooey pink slime or any other color you wanted. โYou would put in the food coloring, crank the handle and the slime would come out. Mayaโs classmate, Kate Schroeder, 9, would help to make it.ย
โข Zac Caza, 10, said he would make a Barbie drone.ย
โขย Shaan Chaudhary said he would build a real car that can transform and he would make it yellow. He did not say what he would want to see it become but the possibilities are endless.
โขย How about a machine for football players who might be practicing on their own. Nishil, 9, came up with the idea of creating a machine that would toss the football back. โYou would throw the football into something and then it would shoot it back to you,โ said Nishil Arora.
โขย William Koppy, 9, who tested the Rubikโs Coach Cube said he would invent a version of the toy that featured auto-solving capability.
โขย Ava Jacobs said she would make a butterfly that could fly.
Many thanks!
The Macomb Daily Toy Reviews have been around since the digital pet craze made Tamagotchi a household word, started in an effort to help parents discover a toy thatโs right for their child and while itโs readers that fuel this tradition itโs the work of many that make it possible including the toy manufacturers, who managed to get us their hot new toys to review despite supply chain challenges.
Our reviews would also not be possible without the support of teachers at Huron Academy in Sterling Heights and one Mr. Darrin Winkler at Pierce Elementary in Birmingham. They corralled their students long enough to fill out the questionnaires. We would also like to thank all of the toy testers, who make up the newest generation of Macomb Daily kids that volunteer with last-minute items, be it polar bears or Barbie dolls.
Cheers to all of you for making it a success!
Just weeks after being inducted into the Salinas Valley Athletic Hall of Fame, legendary track and field coach Dick Casper died unexpectedly.
Prior to his retirement as a coach at Hartnell College, Casper, 87, spent four plus decades coaching track at the youth, high school and collegiate level in Monterey County.
Having earned a track and field scholarship to Cal as a miler out of Hartnell, the former Salinas High distance ace returned to the area to teach history and coach basketball and track.
Casperโs ties to the community included coaching at North Salinas and Alisal. He formed the Salinas Valley Track Club in 1968.
Joining the Hartnell track and field staff in 1980, Casper and the late Gary Shaw helped turn the womenโs program into a power that remains today.
Inducted in the Hartnell College Hall of Fame in 2019, Casper was a motivator with an infectious smile, providing a belief that his athletes bought into.
As an athlete, Casper is still No. 7 all-time at Hartnell in the 800 meters, clocking 1 minute 53.94 seconds in 1956 to finish second in the state finals. He also ran a 4:10.0 mile on a dirt track.
Carmelโs Garello playing for Marine Corps basketball team
Joey Garello is continuing his basketball career for the United States Marine Corps, starting as a guard.
The former Carmel High playmaker was hand-picked for the second straight year to be a part of the Marine Corps team.
Garello was instrumental in the teamโs gold medal game in the All-Armed Forces basketball tournament, scoring 12 points, including the game-winning 3-point goal over Navy.
Last year, Garello engineered the offense, while playing tenacious defense in helping the Marine Corps to a silver medal in the tournament.
Garello averaged 13.3 points a game during his senior season at Carmel in 2019, leading the team in 3-point goals and to a Central Coast Section Division IV title.
Pavlett receives honoree jersey
Palma grad Ethan Pavlet was voted by his peers to wear the No. 4 memorial jersey of former Cal lacrosse legend Doug Sciutto for this upcoming spring.
Sciutto, a former team Most Valuable Player in lacrosse, died in a fire in 1990 at Cal while attempting to rescue friends.
His number, which was retired after his death, was brought back in 2015, and is now worn each year by a senior who best demonstrates Sciuttoโs qualities of courage, commitment and selflessness.
Pavlet will be a senior captain this spring for the Bears. Last year he earned second-team all-WCLL honors as a defender.
The 6-foot-5, 220-pound Pavlet, who was also a MCLA Scholar-Athlete, has recorded the fastest shot at Cal, and is considered one of the best stickhandlers on the Bears.
Garcia, Lomeli close out soccer seasons
Joel Garcia and Isaac Lomeli both logged career highs in minutes played in their final collegiate soccer season for San Jose State.
Named to the 2023 West Athletic Conference preseason team, Garcia finished with two goals and an assist this past fall, logging 1,287 minutes over 15 starts.
The former Alisal High defender, who was named to the WAC All-Freshman team in 2020, started 33 games over his four-year career for the Spartans, compiling six goals.
A midfielder, Lomeli finished with a goal and two assists for the Spartans, starting 15 matches and logging 1,151 minutes.
A former Hartnell College All-American, Lomeli started 32 games in two seasons for San Jose State, scoring two goals and assisting in five
Stevensonโs sailing sensations
With its two silver division teams placing in the top four among 31 teams, Stevenson won the Statewide Regatta at Newport Harbor Yacht Club.
Placing in the top 10 in all six races, Max McCormick and Patrick OโHara produced the lowest score to claim individual honors in the silver division.
Teammates Sadie Marinerstein and Abbie Zhang placed fourth overall, enabling Stevenson to produce a score of 88, outdistancing the runner-up by 11 points.
The third of five statewide regattas by the Pacific Coast Interscholastic Sailing Association will be the Rose Bowl Regatta in January in Long Beach.
Officials needed
Peninsula Sports Incorporate (PSI) is looking for high school and middle school officials for all sports this season. Varsity officials are paid $100 a game.
There is an immediate need for officials in the winter for boys and girls basketball, wrestling and soccer. Training is provided. Call Tom Emery at (831) 241-1101.
Coaches needed
Soledad is looking for a head softball coach. Go to aztecathletics@soledad.k12.ca.us.
Carmel is looking for a varsity boys and girls lacrosse coach and a varsity softball coach. Go to www.carmelunifield.org
Notre Dame is looking for a JV girls basketball coach. Go to nhuihui20@yahoo.com
Red and green might be the traditional colors for the holidays but this year toyland will be lit up in pink.
Barbies.
Care Bears.
Moosh-Moosh plush buddies, miniature cats and pink slime.
The blockbuster hit movie starring Margot Robbie as Americaโs iconic doll has not only been a smash hit for Mattel but has helped to boost the sales for other toymakers offering something in Barbie pink.
โItโs always that way with toys,โ said Julie Everette, co-owner of the Whistle Whistle Stop Hobby and Toy shop in St. Clair Shores. โIf they really love the movie they want to immerse themselves in it.โ
Darrin Winkler concurred.
โI remember loving the movie โGremlinsโ when I was younger. I saw the movie in the theater when I was 8 years old and in third grade,โ said the fourth-grade teacher from Pierce Elementary in Birmingham. โImmediately after I became obsessed with Gizmo, and wanted anything associated with the character. For Christmas that year, I received a Gizmo toy that was like a stuffed animal, but had a sound maker inside of it. When I shook it, it would make an obnoxious squeaky sound. I remember the home video of when I received it, and how excited I was to have my own Gizmo.โ
Winkler said it was his favorite toy for a long time.
โIโm not sure when or how it disappeared from my childhood, but it vanished,โ Winkler said. โTo be honest, Iโm still looking for a Gizmo toy thatโs similar to it to add to my pop culture toy collection.โ
One toy pop collectors are likely to be looking for this year is the Barbie version of Robbie and even Ryan Gosling (Barbieโs Ken).
โMattelโs strong third quarter performance reflects the successful execution of our strategy to grow Mattelโs IP-driven toy business and expand our entertainment offering,โ Ynon Kreiz, chairman and CEO of Mattel said, in a news release. โConsumer demand for our product increased in the first quarter, and we continued to outpace the industry. Our results benefited from the success of the โBarbieโ movie, which became a global cultural phenomenon, and marked a key milestone for Mattel.โ
TOY REVIEWS: Lifelong toy maker offers his take on what inspires children
And for the toy industry itself.
โThereโs a big trickle down when the $1 billion Barbie brand does well,โ Jay Foreman, chief executive of Basic Fun said, in an article published in the New York Post.ย
โThereโs an entire ecosystem that the pink tide is lifting in toyland,โ added Foreman, whose company makes Tonka Truck (3-up, $26.82), Lite Brite (4-up, $30.99) and Basic Funโs Care Bearโs Cheer Bear Buddy (6-up, $44.99). โOur pink Care Bears are flying off the shelves or three times as fast as they dif four weeks ago.โ
James Zahn concurred.
โThe strength of โBarbieโ has brought a lot of people back into the toy department,โ said the senior editor of Toy Insider, known for its coverage of toy industry trends. โBarbieโs Dreamhouse (3-up, $199), that consistently is one of the top toys every year.โย
This yearโs version has also been redesigned to provide a lot of play value.
One toy thatโs not pink but green and already seeing great sales inspired by its movie is Playmate Toys TMNT Mutant Mayhem Pizza Fire Van (4-up, $39.99).
Zahn remarked they were not only able to capture the air of the movie at an affordable price point but came up with an award-winning toy.
โThis is a free-wheeling vehicle that holds all your TMNT figures and it shoots pizza,โ Zahn said.ย
โThat toy is a big hit,โ added Zahn, who witnessed consumerโs reaction at the annual Toy Fair in New York City.
Other movies such as โLady Bug & Cat Noir: The Movie,โand โSpider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse.โ and even popular television series like Netflixโs โGabbyโs Dollhouse,โ are also helping to boost sales for an industry that was impacted dramatically by the fallout of the pandemic.
Zahn said looking at the history of the industry you can see these spikes in toy sales are related to the world of licensing and entertainment, going back as far as the trinkets, gizmos and gadgets inspired by TVโs Batman, Howdy Doody and the Lone Ranger.
โWhat really changed the business was โStar Warsโ movies,โ Zahn said, remembering a unique toy rollout in the 1970s.
Before the toys hit the shelves licensing and entertainment marketing geniuses came up with the idea for an early-bird kit. Parents could order their kit, which was an empty box with a certificate saying once the action figures were out they would be the first to get one.
โIt showed the figure in the box and a few months later the kid would receive an action figure,โ Zahn said. โMarketing genius. Thatโs where we first saw a movie brand get a full aisle at the store.โ
ย
SANTA CLARA โ On the 49ersโ Thanksgiving menu: a win in Seattle.
If they reach their goal, the 49ers may well celebrate by eating turkey legs on NBCโs postgame set on the Seahawksโ midfield logo, a reversal of what went down at Leviโs Stadium on Thanksgiving Night 2014.
Call it the Thanksgiving Revenge Tour. Or donโt. The 49ers (7-3) have bigger goals than a late-night turkey dinner and a nine-year grudge.
First place in the NFC West is at stake, although the 49ers own a one-game lead because the Seahawks (6-4) lost 17-16 Sunday at the Los Angeles Rams (4-5).
A bigger-picture view of the playoff race has the 49ers back in hot pursuit of the NFC-leading Philadelphia Eagles, who take an 8-1 record into tonightโs Super Bowl rematch at Kansas City (7-2). The Eaglesโ ensuing game: a Dec. 3 visit by the 49ers, in an NFC Championship Game rematch.
After that, the 49ers host the Seahawks on Dec. 10 with a shot at clinching the division title, if they win their next two games and the Seahawks lose next Thursday, Nov. 30 in Dallas.
TOP 5 STORYLINES
1. QUARTERBACK MATCHUP
The Seahawks went 0-3 last season against the 49ers with NFL Comeback Player of the Year Geno Smith, and Sunday saw Smithโs throwing elbow injured on a hit from Rams menace Aaron Donald. Coach Pete Carroll told Seattle radio Monday he expects Smith to play through a bruised triceps. Whether itโs Smith or backup Drew Lock, the 49ers will have the edge, because Brock Purdy is not only coming off a perfect passer rating of 158.3 but he has thrown six touchdown passes and committed no turnovers in their past two wins to get back on the playoff track.
2. SECONDARY SHIFT
Losing an All-Pro can be a crushing blow, and the 49ers have lost safety Talanoa Hufanga to a season-ending knee injury. His replacement is rookie JiโAyir Brown, who made a fourth-down interception in the end zone in the final minutes after two pass breakups (and after a 41-yard completion on him). Brown aside, the 49ers will need their starting cornerbacks, as well as safety Tashaun Gipson Sr. to be ready to run with D.K. Metcalf and Tyler Lockett. Brown and all defensive backs will get tested, which is why the 49ers have invested so heavily in a pass rush that has sprung to life since Chase Youngโs trade, with big-time plays coming from starting linemen Nick Bosa, Arik Armstead, Javon Hargrave and Clelin Ferrell.
3. KITTLE POWER
Tight end George Kittle absolutely adores the noise-rattling atmosphere that awaits in Seattle, and why not? He has scored two touchdowns in each of the 49ersโ past two visits and totaled 13 catches for 274 yards in those combined. Kittle on Sunday again showed what a valuable, trusted target he is for Purdy (eight catches, 89 yards, touchdown). He is averaging 108 yards over the past four games.
4. OFFENSIVE LINE SETUP
It seems unlikely that the 49ers would bring left guard Aaron Banks (toe) back from a two-game hiatus to play on artificial turf. Replacement starter Jon Feliciano has played fine in his place. The 49ersโ linemen โ and all offensive players โ must be totally focused to combat the crowd noise which typically prompts a silent snap count.
5. RUN DEFENSE
Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III sustained an oblique injury Sunday, which could mean a bigger dose of rookie Zach Charbonnet (no touchdowns in 53 carries). The 49ers have not allowed a 100-yard rusher in a franchise-record 37 straight games, the NFLโs longest streak since the New Orleans Saintsโ 50-game stretch from 2017-20. The 49ers had a 36-game streak end โฆ in Seattle, by Marshawn Lynch in a 2011 game the 49ers won 19-17.
LAST MEETING
Brock Purdy, four days after sustaining a rib fracture in his victorious starting debut against the Bucs, was nearly scratched before kickoff. But, with the help of a pain-killing injection, Purdy played and the 49ers prevailed with a 21-13, division-clinching win on Thursday, Dec. 15. Purdy threw for 215 yards and had two touchdown passes to Kittle, the latter of which put them ahead 21-3 in the third quarter. Christian McCaffrey ran for 108 yards and a score. The Seahawksโ Lockett and Metcalf each had seven receptions but no touchdowns.
SERIES HISTORY
The Seahawks lead 30-20, including a 17-9 advantage at home. The 49ers lost eight straight visits, including the NFC Championship Game in January 2014, before a 26-21 victory in the 2019 regular-season finale clinched the division and the NFCโs No. 1 playoff seed.
THANKSGIVING GAMES
The 49ers have lost their two previous Thanksgiving appearances: 16-6 at Baltimore in 2011, and, 19-3 to Seattle in 2014 at Leviโs Stadium.
The Seahawks are 2-2 on Thanksgiving, their most recent game being that 2014 win over the 49ers.
BULLETIN BOARD
โVery excited about Thursday Night Football against the Seattle Seahawks. Short week. Shoutout to the Rams โ good job guys, good job Mike LaFleur. All that means is Seattleโs going to be a little angry and itโs going to be a great game up there. Itโs one of my favorite atmospheres and places to play. They absolutely hate us and what a great fan base to absolutely hate us. Itโs really fun. Itโs going to be an exciting game, a physical game, and we have to go up there and get a win.โ โ Kittle
โItโs McCaffrey, really. Heโs the middle of the running game. Theyโre still running him late in the game and he had like 10 carries in the fourth quarter. He seems to be the centerpiece of it. But theyโre really highlighted with their other guys. Purdy was 21-for-25 yesterday, and had a big game last week, too, so heโs back on track. He does make plays now. He makes throws and things happen where you go, โHow in the heck did that happen?โ โ โ Seahawks coach Carroll on the 49ers offense via Seattle sports radio 710-AM
WEATHER FORECAST
Temperatures are to drop from the 40s to the high 30s, according to the National Weather Service, with no rain expected. It was 39 degrees at kickoff in last Decemberโs game at Lumen Field.
BETTING LINE
The 49ers opened as 7-point favorites with an over/under set at 43 points, according to ActionNetwork.com. Itโs the third straight year the 49ers are favored entering Seattle, and theyโve never been as big a favorite since the Seahawks were realigned into the NFC West in 2002, which is when their current stadium opened downtown. The only time the 49ers have been favored more in Seattle was the series opener in 1976, when they won 37-21 to cover a 10.5-point spread.
โAnything that you start out with numbers like that, thatโs all just set-ups,โ Kyle Shanahan said, โso I donโt think about that all. I donโt care what the situation is, whoโs playing, what the teams are like. You go up to Seattle, itโs as hard as it gets.
โItโs one of the toughest places to play in the NFL, if not the toughest,โ Shanahan added. โThey have a certain style there and the way they play that is harder to deal with on the road because of how loud it is and the snap-count disadvantage.โ
Prediction: 49ers 27, Seahawks 17
Editorโs note: Digital premium subscribers have unlimited access to every recipe mentioned in this roundup, all published on news sites within our network. Subscribe for nationwide coverage from award-winning sites like the Baltimore Sun, New York Daily News and more.
The countdown is on for Thanksgiving. If youโre starting to worry about meal prep and plans, weโve got all the Thanksgiving recipes you need right here.
First, figure out what you can make ahead and what you canโt. You may also want to put together a budget as Thanksgiving dinner costs are up even as turkey prices tumble.
Finally, keep safety in mind: On the No. 1 day for kitchen fires, hereโs how not to become a statistic.
In the event of a turkey or baking emergency, there are hotlines you can call. Two, in particular, are staffed by experts from Butterball and King Arthur who wonโt laugh even if you tried to thaw your bird in the clothes dryer.ย
Now, onto some food:
Thanksgiving turkey recipes
Itโs tough to go wrong with the classic: a crispy-skinned roasted bird with homemade gravy. This recipe from turkey expert Butterball walks you through it, even if youโve never encountered a giblet bag before.
Recipe: Whole roasted turkey with giblet gravy, from Butterball
Alternatively, you might need a make-ahead turkey thatโs ready to travel, and the New York Timesโ Melissa Clark has found a way to solve that puzzle.
Need a vegetarian entree that the turkey-eaters will enjoy, too? Try this stuffed acorn squash with quinoa, shiitakes and cranberries. Itโs a dish thatโs worthy of being your holiday centerpiece.
TasteFood: A vegetarian centerpiece worthy of a holiday table
Thanksgiving sides recipes
Who doesnโt love bread? Bake these tender dinner rolls from King Arthur Baking Co. It yields a batch of 24.
Recipe: Make Thanksgiving dinner rolls the King Arthur Baking Co. way
Weโve also got the recipe for a show-stopping appetizer: baked camembert with persimmon. It combines rosemary and pomegranate for an easy but delicious starter.ย
Holiday appetizers: Baked Camembert with Persimmon and Rosemary
Here are some roasted balsamic brussels sprouts everyone will love, a sweet and juicy dish thatโs both fast and easy to make.
TasteFood: Roasted Balsamic Brussels Sprouts everyone will love
Of course, we have to include a nod to cranberries, which are more than just a Thanksgiving side dish. Spiced sherry-laced cranberry sauce can be made ahead, or you could serve braised red cabbage with cranberries.
You also canโt go wrong with green salad, especially paired with Ina Gartenโs creamy vinaigrette. To make it ahead, Orange County Register contributor Cathy Thomas sets out the salad bowl and tongs, places the dressing and ready-to-use lettuce in the fridge, then asks a guest to toss it while preparing the gravy.
Thanksgiving casserole recipe
Sweet Potato Crunch Casserole is another side that could double as an entree. It can largely be made ahead and heated up right before guests arrive.
Recipe: Sweet Potato Crunch casserole is a perfect holiday meal
Thanksgiving pie recipes
Start with a secret pie crust from Los Angelesโ The Pie Hole, then pick your filling โ lemon-pear, spiced hot chocolate or an above-and-beyond pumpkin.
The Pie Hole co-founder Rebecca Grasley shared all these recipes and more with The Mercury News; donโt miss some special tips for how to bake a perfect Thanksgiving pie.
Thanksgiving dessert recipes
Spiced brown sugar-pecan coffee cake is a sweet indulgence for the holidays, and weโve got the recipe for a topping thatโs rich in spices.
Recipe: Spiced Brown Sugar-Pecan Coffee Cake is a sweet indulgence for the holidays
You could also make pumpkin cake with buttermilk icing ahead.
Thanksgiving drinks recipes
Amid the holiday celebrations, โone great way to stay perked up and cozy is to indulgeโ in coffee cocktails, writes Kate Bradshaw for The Mercury News. Think Mostly Classic Irish Coffee or a Chartreuse Cappuccino.
Both drink recipes are from Oregon-based coffee journalists Jordan Michelman and Zachary Carlsen, who recently released their second book, โBut First, Coffee: A Guide to Brewing from the Kitchen to the Bar.โ
Thanksgiving leftovers recipes
Finding yourself with lots of leftover turkey? You can whip up a quick one-pot hash that โtastes great the second day,โ writes Tribune News Serviceโs Linda Gassenheimer.
Contributing: Associated Press; Kate Bradshaw, Laura McLively and John Metcalfe, Bay Area News Group; Deena Shanker, Bloomberg News; Betty Cahill, Denver Post; Melissa Clark, New York Times; Cathy Thomas, Southern California News Group; Lynda Balslev, TasteFood; Linda Gassenheimer, Tribune News Service
Editorโs note: Digital premium subscribers have unlimited access to every recipe mentioned in this roundup, all published on news sites within our network. Subscribe for nationwide coverage from award-winning sites like the Baltimore Sun, New York Daily News and more.
The countdown is on for Thanksgiving. If youโre starting to worry about meal prep and plans, weโve got all the Thanksgiving recipes you need right here.
First, figure out what you can make ahead and what you canโt. You may also want to put together a budget as Thanksgiving dinner costs are up even as turkey prices tumble.
Finally, keep safety in mind: On the No. 1 day for kitchen fires, hereโs how not to become a statistic.
In the event of a turkey or baking emergency, there are hotlines you can call. Two, in particular, are staffed by experts from Butterball and King Arthur who wonโt laugh even if you tried to thaw your bird in the clothes dryer.ย
Now, onto some food:
Thanksgiving turkey recipes
Itโs tough to go wrong with the classic: a crispy-skinned roasted bird with homemade gravy. This recipe from turkey expert Butterball walks you through it, even if youโve never encountered a giblet bag before.
Recipe: Whole roasted turkey with giblet gravy, from Butterball
Alternatively, you might need a make-ahead turkey thatโs ready to travel, and the New York Timesโ Melissa Clark has found a way to solve that puzzle.
Need a vegetarian entree that the turkey-eaters will enjoy, too? Try this stuffed acorn squash with quinoa, shiitakes and cranberries. Itโs a dish thatโs worthy of being your holiday centerpiece.
TasteFood: A vegetarian centerpiece worthy of a holiday table
Thanksgiving sides recipes
Who doesnโt love bread? Bake these tender dinner rolls from King Arthur Baking Co. It yields a batch of 24.
Recipe: Make Thanksgiving dinner rolls the King Arthur Baking Co. way
Weโve also got the recipe for a show-stopping appetizer: baked camembert with persimmon. It combines rosemary and pomegranate for an easy but delicious starter.ย
Holiday appetizers: Baked Camembert with Persimmon and Rosemary
Here are some roasted balsamic brussels sprouts everyone will love, a sweet and juicy dish thatโs both fast and easy to make.
TasteFood: Roasted Balsamic Brussels Sprouts everyone will love
Of course, we have to include a nod to cranberries, which are more than just a Thanksgiving side dish. Spiced sherry-laced cranberry sauce can be made ahead, or you could serve braised red cabbage with cranberries.
You also canโt go wrong with green salad, especially paired with Ina Gartenโs creamy vinaigrette. To make it ahead, Orange County Register contributor Cathy Thomas sets out the salad bowl and tongs, places the dressing and ready-to-use lettuce in the fridge, then asks a guest to toss it while preparing the gravy.
Thanksgiving casserole recipe
Sweet Potato Crunch Casserole is another side that could double as an entree. It can largely be made ahead and heated up right before guests arrive.
Recipe: Sweet Potato Crunch casserole is a perfect holiday meal
Thanksgiving pie recipes
Start with a secret pie crust from Los Angelesโ The Pie Hole, then pick your filling โ lemon-pear, spiced hot chocolate or an above-and-beyond pumpkin.
The Pie Hole co-founder Rebecca Grasley shared all these recipes and more with The Mercury News; donโt miss some special tips for how to bake a perfect Thanksgiving pie.
Thanksgiving dessert recipes
Spiced brown sugar-pecan coffee cake is a sweet indulgence for the holidays, and weโve got the recipe for a topping thatโs rich in spices.
Recipe: Spiced Brown Sugar-Pecan Coffee Cake is a sweet indulgence for the holidays
You could also make pumpkin cake with buttermilk icing ahead.
Thanksgiving drinks recipes
Amid the holiday celebrations, โone great way to stay perked up and cozy is to indulgeโ in coffee cocktails, writes Kate Bradshaw for The Mercury News. Think Mostly Classic Irish Coffee or a Chartreuse Cappuccino.
Both drink recipes are from Oregon-based coffee journalists Jordan Michelman and Zachary Carlsen, who recently released their second book, โBut First, Coffee: A Guide to Brewing from the Kitchen to the Bar.โ
Thanksgiving leftovers recipes
Finding yourself with lots of leftover turkey? You can whip up a quick one-pot hash that โtastes great the second day,โ writes Tribune News Serviceโs Linda Gassenheimer.
Contributing: Associated Press; Kate Bradshaw, Laura McLively and John Metcalfe, Bay Area News Group; Deena Shanker, Bloomberg News; Betty Cahill, Denver Post; Melissa Clark, New York Times; Cathy Thomas, Southern California News Group; Lynda Balslev, TasteFood; Linda Gassenheimer, Tribune News Service
