Manhattan Toy Book & Author Collaborations

We're excited to share our latest book & author collaborations. Our talented designers have transformed timeless classic and new heroic characters, from the pages of several NY Times best-selling children's books, into lovable 3D plush characters. Prepare yourself for a behind-the-scenes look at these collaborative creations. 

LYLE, LYLE, CROCODILE

When tasked with bringing the timeless character of Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile to life as a 3D plush character, Senior designer Cathy Delebroux excitedly hit the ground running with research. That's right, research on a storybook character! Carefully studying illustrations to ensure she captured the quintessential characteristics of the friendly neighborhood crocodile.

"It was an honor to develop a vintage, classic story character into a plush design that could stand on his own, or as a companion to the books." - Senior Designer, Cathy Delebroux

As a skilled plush designer, it didn't take long before Ms. Delebroux could envision the body style, fabric, fill, and weight of his design. The only question she faced after exhaustive research was - should "Lyle" have 3, 4, or 5 fingers? She landed on 4 fingers to match his feet. 

As creators of inspired toys for children, we hope this soft and cuddly crocodile will help a new generation discover and fall in love with "Lyle" and his many stories. Visit our Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile page to order your Large or Small crocodile companion today. Plus, hear more from Ms. Delebroux and the creative process in our exclusive Q&A section.

KNIGHT OWL

Hooked at first, hoot! Our design team immediately fell in love with the Knight Owl character - a bitty owl who dreams of being a knight. The smallest among an army of giant humans, what Knight Owl lacks in size, he makes up for in nocturnal intuition, good ideas, and a whole lot of heart. 

"[T]he entire process was enjoyable. I love the book's message and Knight Owl is so totally adorable; he has so much heart - I LOVE to root for the little guy." - Senior Designer, Cathy Delebroux

Turning this heroic character into a cuddle creation was a treat. But, transforming 2D art into a plush companion is genuinely an art with many things to consider - shape and fabric to size and weight. Author Christopher Denise's detailed book illustrations provided the perfect blueprint for lead designer Cathy Delebroux to envision and bring this plump little owl to life. 

Now, Knight Owl can be enjoyed as a lovable stuffed animal companion. Visit the Knight Owl product page to order yours today and hear more about the creation process in our Q&A with Ms. Delebroux. Whether enjoyed as a napping pal or story-time snuggler, he's the perfect reminder that there is no limit to what you can achieve when you believe in yourself.