ToyCyte: Toy Culture Collected

Here’s another San Francisco gem I recently became aware of: Immedium. The Pacific Rim publisher covers diverse subjects ranging from eye-catching children’s books to contemporary non-fiction, including commentaries on art, popular culture, and multicultural issues. Of particular note to ToyCyte readers is a section of their works that are designed for the next generation of toy fanatics: your kids. Immedium has published the Octonauts series by Meomi, Welcome to Monster Isle by Jeff Miracola and a tale of the Woolly Hoodwinks whose creators did a signing at Super7.

Coming down the pipeline are books by Attaboy (March 09) and Skaffs (February 09). The Skaffs book (signed with free limited edition postcard) is currently available for $15.95 hardcover as a pre-order here.

Entitled, Chaff n’ Skaffs: Mai and the lost Moskivvy, the book was written by Amanda Chin and Luke Feldman (Skaffs) and illustrated by Luke Feldman. Here is a description:

Mai is a 12 year-old girl who loves reading and nature. When a lost mosquito interrupts Mai’s sleep, her friend Chaff suggests they escort Moskivvy home. So begins a courageous girl’s voyage into a fantastic, colorful world. Guided by her boon companion Chaff, Mai’s incredible journey will kindle readers’ imaginations. Meeting many bizarre and wonderful creatures along the way, these three adventurers must brave teeming jungles, blinding blizzards, and imposing mountains. With Chaff’s help, can Mai discover the courage and strength to travel through unknown worlds to reunite the little Moskivvy with his family?

Luke Feldman’s distinctive illustrations combine vibrant colors and whimsical imagery. Skinnie Magazine wrote, “Indeed, one might contend that Feldman is to digital art what Tim Burton is to cinema, or Dr. Seuss is to children’s books, as each artist has a distinctive, unmistakable style.” San Francisco Art Magazine added that Feldman’s creations “display beauty, humanity, sexuality encapsulated by mystery and darkness.”

Adults, toy collectors and illiterates take note: This book’s launch will coincide with the release of the limited edition vinyl toy Misskaffs: Mai, which will be produced by Wheaty Wheat Studios. Very cool! Check out a couple images from the book courtesy of Immedium.