Author: Tom

Amazon Kindle Reader

While not technically a “toy”, it’s hard to ignore the impact of the Kindle during the holiday shopping season. As stated in the graphic above, the Kindle is the #1 best selling, #1 most wished for, and #1 most gifted item at Amazon — and that is quite a feat!

Most teens or adults who loves to read would be glad to receive the Kindle as a gift this year. If you are giving the Kindle as a gift this year, you may also want to include the Kindle Leather Cover or even an Amazon Gift Certificate so the recipient can get a few books on their Kindle right away.

The Today Show Toy Drive

The TODAY show on NBC has kicked off their 16th Annual Holiday Toy and Gift Drive for needy families in the United States. Did you know that nearly one in five children are living below the poverty level in the United States? The gifts that are donated will be distributed to children’s whose parents would otherwise not be able to provide a special gift for the Holidays. Recipients are more than 200 non-profit family organizations including homeless shelters, children’s group homes, foster family services and more.

You can read the press release from the TODAY show with more details about the program here.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

This year Amazon is matching donations made online from the Today Show’s Amazon Wish List. Go to The Today Show Wish List page on Amazon, add items to your cart, and Amazon will ensure that the toys are sent to kids in need.

Chuck My Talking Truck

The new Chuck My Talking Truck by Playskool is a favorite for boys 2 years old up to around 6 years old. This motorized vehicle plays over 40 phrases and sounds. If you call his name, the truck will drive up to you! This interactive dump truck is sure to help your little boy “get the job done”!

This toy truck also comes with a storybook included.

Savannah Doll House

The Savannah Dollhouse by KidKraft is a popular pick this year if you are looking for dollhouse for girls age 3 years old and up.

The Savannah Dollhouse is a large 6 room mansion that stands over 4 feet tall! It is decorated as a true southern style mansion and comes completely furnished with 14 pieces of hand built wooden furniture. Very elegant!

Transformers Leader Figure Optimus Prime Toy

With the success of the Transformers 2 Movie this summer, this Transformers Leader Figure (aka Optimus Prime) is a top selling toy for the 2009 holiday season. This is a very detailed Optimus Prime with lots of moving parts to “transform”. This is a must have toy for boys who love the Transformers.

Recommended for kids age 5 year old and up, however many 5 year olds may not appreciate all the intricate details of this toys. So you may find this to be a better toy for older boys.

Looking for the movie to go along with the toy? Check out Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (Two-Disc Special Edition) on DVD.