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Mr. Figgletoes' Toy Emporium
Why are children vanishing from their beds in the middle of the night? And what does the local toymaker have to do with their disappearances? Find out in the exciting children's fantasy, Mr. Figgletoes' Toy Emporium. The story begins on East Sherman Avenue in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, where an exclusive and delightful toy store is located. Owned by Mr. Figgletoes, the enchanting shop contains a vast selection of unique toys. Recently, a scary witch with evil plans for the children of Coeur d'Alene has infiltrated Mr. Figgletoes' Emporium. Now, after making a purchase at Mr. Figgletoes' shop, select customers, along with their new toys, disappear during the night. What is the mean old witch going to do with her captives? Can Mr. Figgletoes be trusted?
- GenresChildrens
188 pages, Paperback
Published September 11, 2020
4 people are currently reading
1113 people want to read
About the author
M.J. Evans
25 books142 followersI am a graduate of Oregon State University. Upon graduation, I spent five years teaching at the middle school and high school levels. My writing, at that time, was limited to curriculum. That was not fun.
While raising my children, I coached their Odyssey of the Mind and Destination Imagination teams for seventeen years. I helped them write their own stories for the competitions. During this time, I also wrote two parent handbooks for the Salem, Oregon School district on sex education.
About fifteen years ago, I was able to combine my passion for horses with my love of writing. I researched and wrote two equestrian trail guide books for the Denver area. By “research” I mean that I spent every Friday riding my horse on a new trail, be it on the plains or in the mountains. It was a tough job, but someone had to do it! The result of that work was the publication of Riding Colorado-Day Trips from Denver with Your Horse, and Riding Colorado II. Both books continue to sell very well in the Denver to Colorado Springs area and have made my horse famous.
I was able to combine my love of horses with my love of fantasy in my first Trilogy. The Mist Trilogy, comprised of Behind the Mist, Mists of Darkness and the Rising Mist received a gold medal from the Mom's Choice Awards. My next fantasy, an allegory of the Revolutionary War, but with Trolls and Leprechauns, won first place in the Purple Dragonfly Awards for fantasy. I took a brief (2 year) break from writing fantasy to complete a contemporary, coming of age novel titled "In the Heart of a Mustang." This YA novel won first place in the Literary Classics Awards for Young Adult fiction and second place in the Nautilus Awards in the same category.
On October 1, 2016, I released the first book of my new fantasy series "The Stone of Mercy: Book 1 of the Centaur Chronicles."
I have now expanded my writing interests to include Historical Fiction: "PINTO! Based Upon the True Story of the Longest Horseback Ride in History," and "The Sand Pounder - Love and Drama on Horseback in WWII."
I have also had fun working with illustrators on five picture books: "PERCY - The Racehorse Who Didn't Like to Run," and "The Skullington Family Series."
I describe myself as a “Mozart” type of writer as opposed to a “Beethoven” writer. When I sit down to write, the words just flow and I don’t have to go back and do a lot of revisions.
While raising my children, I coached their Odyssey of the Mind and Destination Imagination teams for seventeen years. I helped them write their own stories for the competitions. During this time, I also wrote two parent handbooks for the Salem, Oregon School district on sex education.
About fifteen years ago, I was able to combine my passion for horses with my love of writing. I researched and wrote two equestrian trail guide books for the Denver area. By “research” I mean that I spent every Friday riding my horse on a new trail, be it on the plains or in the mountains. It was a tough job, but someone had to do it! The result of that work was the publication of Riding Colorado-Day Trips from Denver with Your Horse, and Riding Colorado II. Both books continue to sell very well in the Denver to Colorado Springs area and have made my horse famous.
I was able to combine my love of horses with my love of fantasy in my first Trilogy. The Mist Trilogy, comprised of Behind the Mist, Mists of Darkness and the Rising Mist received a gold medal from the Mom's Choice Awards. My next fantasy, an allegory of the Revolutionary War, but with Trolls and Leprechauns, won first place in the Purple Dragonfly Awards for fantasy. I took a brief (2 year) break from writing fantasy to complete a contemporary, coming of age novel titled "In the Heart of a Mustang." This YA novel won first place in the Literary Classics Awards for Young Adult fiction and second place in the Nautilus Awards in the same category.
On October 1, 2016, I released the first book of my new fantasy series "The Stone of Mercy: Book 1 of the Centaur Chronicles."
I have now expanded my writing interests to include Historical Fiction: "PINTO! Based Upon the True Story of the Longest Horseback Ride in History," and "The Sand Pounder - Love and Drama on Horseback in WWII."
I have also had fun working with illustrators on five picture books: "PERCY - The Racehorse Who Didn't Like to Run," and "The Skullington Family Series."
I describe myself as a “Mozart” type of writer as opposed to a “Beethoven” writer. When I sit down to write, the words just flow and I don’t have to go back and do a lot of revisions.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
November 20, 2020
Mr. Figgletoes' Toy Emporium is such a great title for a children's book--even as an adult reader, it immediately grabbed my attention. It took a little time to warm up to Jasmine, a highly indulged and petulant young girl, but as the story evolved, her character evolved more, too. The subsequent characters easily engaged my mind and my heart.
The premise of teaching kindness is always a lovely intention woven into a story's structure, and this one was quite effective. Although the dialogue was sometimes stilted, the book was well-written, and one I believe older elementary students and maybe even 6th graders might enjoy! Mr. Figgletoes' Toy Emporium would be a good additional to school and public libraries.
The premise of teaching kindness is always a lovely intention woven into a story's structure, and this one was quite effective. Although the dialogue was sometimes stilted, the book was well-written, and one I believe older elementary students and maybe even 6th graders might enjoy! Mr. Figgletoes' Toy Emporium would be a good additional to school and public libraries.
November 16, 2020
A WISHING SHELF BOOK REVIEW
16th November 2020
TITLE: Mr. Figgletoes’ Toy Emporium
AUTHOR: M J Evans
Star Rating: 4.5
‘A cleverly-plotted fantasy adventure populated with memorable, larger than life, characters. Highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
Kids enjoy fantasy. I know I did. In fact, I’m 41 now and I still do. The other day, I was reading The Magical Faraway Tree by Enid Blyton to my three children. And, you know what, I think I enjoyed it as much as they did. Anyway, as you can probably tell from the title, this is very much a fantasy novel. Written for 8 – 12 years olds, it’s a fun-filled magical adventure packed full of over-the-top characters and hundreds of little twists and turns.
To begin with, the plot. In a nutshell, a number of children vanish after visiting a toy shop (a remarkably cool toy shop), all kidnapped by a witch. The story follows the children as they try to work together and find a way of escaping. But, to do it, they’ll need a daring plan!
I must say, the author’s very good and, although there’s a strong message in there (similar to the message in Dahl’s Chocolate Factory), the story is not ‘preachy’ at all. In terms of storytelling, it’s excellent. The refreshingly simple and often very clever writing style adds a lot to the story. The author has excellent timing and the book is full of twists that will help to keep any child enthralled. The characters are interesting and well-developed, the fantasy world is intriguing and the plot is superbly structured.
So, would I recommend this book? Absolutely! I would think any child aged 8 – 12 would find the characters captivating, and the plot mesmerizing. In a way, this is the sort of book to read before attempting a book like Harry Potter. It’s not as complex (or as long), but it’s a magical page-turner anyway. Also, and this is important, I think parents would not only enjoy it too, but would be happy with the message cleverly hidden away in the folds of this exciting story.
Enjoy!
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
16th November 2020
TITLE: Mr. Figgletoes’ Toy Emporium
AUTHOR: M J Evans
Star Rating: 4.5
‘A cleverly-plotted fantasy adventure populated with memorable, larger than life, characters. Highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
Kids enjoy fantasy. I know I did. In fact, I’m 41 now and I still do. The other day, I was reading The Magical Faraway Tree by Enid Blyton to my three children. And, you know what, I think I enjoyed it as much as they did. Anyway, as you can probably tell from the title, this is very much a fantasy novel. Written for 8 – 12 years olds, it’s a fun-filled magical adventure packed full of over-the-top characters and hundreds of little twists and turns.
To begin with, the plot. In a nutshell, a number of children vanish after visiting a toy shop (a remarkably cool toy shop), all kidnapped by a witch. The story follows the children as they try to work together and find a way of escaping. But, to do it, they’ll need a daring plan!
I must say, the author’s very good and, although there’s a strong message in there (similar to the message in Dahl’s Chocolate Factory), the story is not ‘preachy’ at all. In terms of storytelling, it’s excellent. The refreshingly simple and often very clever writing style adds a lot to the story. The author has excellent timing and the book is full of twists that will help to keep any child enthralled. The characters are interesting and well-developed, the fantasy world is intriguing and the plot is superbly structured.
So, would I recommend this book? Absolutely! I would think any child aged 8 – 12 would find the characters captivating, and the plot mesmerizing. In a way, this is the sort of book to read before attempting a book like Harry Potter. It’s not as complex (or as long), but it’s a magical page-turner anyway. Also, and this is important, I think parents would not only enjoy it too, but would be happy with the message cleverly hidden away in the folds of this exciting story.
Enjoy!
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
April 8, 2021
I received an electronic ARC from StoryMonsters LLC.
The title immediately caught my attention. Who wouldn't want to read about Mr. Figgletoes? Then, to throw in he is a toy emporium owner - kids will flock to this based on the cover alone.
There are distinct Roald Dahl overtones but Evans has created her own magical story about children who need a reminder that kindness and caring for others need to be top priorities.
Readers meet four children - Jasmine, Frederick, Brinnli, Parker. Three represent selfish sides of childhood and one models a more caring attitude. All are captured by the local witch via toys they purchase at the Emporium. While trapped with Miss Twizzle, they slowly learn to see others' needs and work as a team to escape. No spoilers, but readers do see Miss Twizzle cast spells that affect three of them physically. Mr. Figgletoes chooses to enter Twizzle's home through the magic entrance and joins in the plans to escape. He works with Parker and the others to create an environment that changes the narrative for Miss Twizzle and shows she is loved too.
The message to celebrate others and show compassion and kindness comes through clearly on several levels. This book is designed for mid to upper elementary level readers. They may recognize themselves in several of the characters so take the lessons to heart.
The title immediately caught my attention. Who wouldn't want to read about Mr. Figgletoes? Then, to throw in he is a toy emporium owner - kids will flock to this based on the cover alone.
There are distinct Roald Dahl overtones but Evans has created her own magical story about children who need a reminder that kindness and caring for others need to be top priorities.
Readers meet four children - Jasmine, Frederick, Brinnli, Parker. Three represent selfish sides of childhood and one models a more caring attitude. All are captured by the local witch via toys they purchase at the Emporium. While trapped with Miss Twizzle, they slowly learn to see others' needs and work as a team to escape. No spoilers, but readers do see Miss Twizzle cast spells that affect three of them physically. Mr. Figgletoes chooses to enter Twizzle's home through the magic entrance and joins in the plans to escape. He works with Parker and the others to create an environment that changes the narrative for Miss Twizzle and shows she is loved too.
The message to celebrate others and show compassion and kindness comes through clearly on several levels. This book is designed for mid to upper elementary level readers. They may recognize themselves in several of the characters so take the lessons to heart.
January 18, 2021
Mr Figgletoes’ Toy Emporium reminded me of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, with a trio of truly awful children in need of some serious attitude adjustments, and one kind child willing to see the good in everyone. Add in a wicked witch who was bullied in school and is looking for some payback and you have a winner.
M.J. Evans’ writing keeps the story clipping along and gives you get a real feel for the characters. As with Charlie in Roald Dahl’s classic, Parker seems like a genuinely likable boy, not some annoying goody-goody. And while you instantly dislike Jasmine, Frederick and Brinnli when you meet them, you feel them grow thanks to Parker’s influence. Their transformations are all the more believable by the fact that, in the end, you’re really not sure whether Frederick will revert back to his old ways.
I also loved Gaspar Sabater’s illustrations. He captured the characters exactly as I saw them in my mind’s eye.
Coincidentally, I actually stopped briefly in Coeur d’Alene several years ago to find a couple of geocaches. If only I’d known, I would have also gone looking for Mr Figgletoes’ Toy Emporium and the tree outside the Masonic Temple.
M.J. Evans’ writing keeps the story clipping along and gives you get a real feel for the characters. As with Charlie in Roald Dahl’s classic, Parker seems like a genuinely likable boy, not some annoying goody-goody. And while you instantly dislike Jasmine, Frederick and Brinnli when you meet them, you feel them grow thanks to Parker’s influence. Their transformations are all the more believable by the fact that, in the end, you’re really not sure whether Frederick will revert back to his old ways.
I also loved Gaspar Sabater’s illustrations. He captured the characters exactly as I saw them in my mind’s eye.
Coincidentally, I actually stopped briefly in Coeur d’Alene several years ago to find a couple of geocaches. If only I’d known, I would have also gone looking for Mr Figgletoes’ Toy Emporium and the tree outside the Masonic Temple.
May 29, 2022
This cautionary tale for children is very much in the mould of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Three unpleasant children, Jasmine, Frederick and Brinnli, are introduced and they are not very likeable. Each child forces their parents to buy them toys from Mr Figgletoes’ Toy Emporium and the toy maker selects special toys for each child. Late at night, an owl taps on each child’s window and the toys grow in size and take the children to a door in a tree that is a gateway to a magical world. Within this world lives a witch called Miss Twizzle, and she puts the children to work.
There is another boy, Parker, who is very different. His sister has a life-threatening disease, and she is in hospital. Parker is worried about his mother and his sister and he has saved money from his jobs. He goes to the Toy Emporium and Mr Figgletoes selects a special doll for Parker to give to his sister. Before the toy can be delivered, Parker is taken by the doll to the witch’s home. Here he is given similar chores to the other children, and he attempts to help the others despite their unpleasant characteristics. Parker seeks a way to escape the witch and to return to their homes.
There is another boy, Parker, who is very different. His sister has a life-threatening disease, and she is in hospital. Parker is worried about his mother and his sister and he has saved money from his jobs. He goes to the Toy Emporium and Mr Figgletoes selects a special doll for Parker to give to his sister. Before the toy can be delivered, Parker is taken by the doll to the witch’s home. Here he is given similar chores to the other children, and he attempts to help the others despite their unpleasant characteristics. Parker seeks a way to escape the witch and to return to their homes.
September 21, 2020
Mr. Figgletoes’ Toy Emporium is an excellent early middle grade chapter book with detailed illustrations. The characters include Mr. Figgletoes, a group of young children kidnapped by him, and a witch named Miss Twizzle who holds the children captive. These children, most demonstrating various character flaws, are held in a scary, damp underground cavern by Miss Twizzle. The story develops around one child who tries to help and protect all the others. Evan’s story is original, descriptive, and well-written. I highly recommend it for its “moral,” illustrations, and the overall fun and humor of the story. This would be a great Halloween read for early middle grade readers either at home or in the classroom. I was given a copy of this manuscript to read in exchange for an honest review. C.M. Huddleston, author.
October 25, 2020
This is a totally charming children's book. I guarantee you as a former Reading teacher, this book will not only engage young readers, but it will build reading skills like anticipating outcomes, inferring motivations, and predicting outcomes. It will also do a wonderful job of building reading vocabulary in young readers. The author is definitely trying intentionally to introduce big words and complex ideas.
I have to say, at the outset, I thought this story was going to be rather dark and brutally punish bad kids in the way Roald Dahl does in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. But the final outcome is much more satisfying than the one in that book.
This story is obviously written with skill, care, and a deep love for the young reader. I highly recommend this sweet little story.
I have to say, at the outset, I thought this story was going to be rather dark and brutally punish bad kids in the way Roald Dahl does in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. But the final outcome is much more satisfying than the one in that book.
This story is obviously written with skill, care, and a deep love for the young reader. I highly recommend this sweet little story.
October 8, 2020
As an elementary teacher and an avid booklover, I dove into this story with expectations that my own children would enjoy the plot and relate to the text. I was instantly able to make connections to stories I loved as a child, especially Mrs. Piggle Wiggle and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Ms. Evans easily creates a story that children can dive into while challenging them to learn new vocabulary words. This book is perfect for middle grade readers, and it has debuted in time for Halloween and Christmas when all children are longing for magic and the joy of new toys. I highly recommend Mr. Figgletoes' Toy Emporium to anyone looking for an escape from the mundane as this book was anything but predictable.
November 8, 2020
I received this book thru a Goodreads giveaway think of my great-nephew who loves to read (he's 8). This book is suggested for 8+. I'm not sure my nephew is ready for this one since he is leary of scary stories like Goosebumps. This story made me think of Willy Wonka with the characterization of the featured children. Rather obnoxious children disappear after a visit to Mr. Figgletoes's Toy Emporium due to a witch. It addresses the subjects of selfishness, laziness, bullying, kindness and redemption. So it could lead the read to consider those behaviors. About 11 pen & ink drawings appear thru out the book which helps imagine the world created (tho the settings are set by very descriptive prose too).
September 17, 2020
Mr. Figgletoes’ Toy Emporium opens the door to a journey within a magical tree. Armed with a one-of-a-kind toy from the Emporium, four children disappear after visiting Mr. Figgletoes. All four children have been captured by Miss Twizzle. The old witch has a penchant for scary spells and long to-do lists. The four kids become reluctant friends. They learn to help each other, not knowing if they’ll ever see their families again. When Mr. Figggletoes tries to rescue them, they come up with a daring plan.
Evans weaves a tale that teaches, terrifies, and delights. Every child who reads this tale will think about their own lives as they read this fast-paced adventure.
Evans weaves a tale that teaches, terrifies, and delights. Every child who reads this tale will think about their own lives as they read this fast-paced adventure.
September 25, 2020
This book reminded me a bit of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory-- a bunch of really awful kids (with one exception) that get placed in an extraordinary situation and are confronted with their own cruelty and bratiness, though luckily the ending was more hopeful. The aspect of the detective mystery was also fun and unexpected, while the enigmatic figure of Mr. Figgletoes himself leaves the reader guessing. The writing is a bit advanced for very young children. Kids younger than eight might feel a bit overwhelmed. The pictures are very sweet and really add to the story. I look forward to discovering more by this author.
May 16, 2022
The book I read is Mr. Figgletoes Toy Emporium by M. J. Evans. This book falls into the genre of science. This book is intended for ages eight and up. To summarize the story, a group of children who do not have the greatest attitudes come into contact with a child who sees the good in everyone. I gave this book five stars because the title itself draws me in. As an educator, I could see young children being captivated by the title alone. This book is great for children in a sense a reading skills as well as the images throughout the book. The book features enchanting details that make the young reader imagine as well as create stories of their own. As an educator, I am big on practicing and expressing kindness to everyone. I believe we as a people need more kindness in the world and this book helps young children realize that. This books gives a feeling of the cup half full instead of half empty. I enjoyed this book because it kept my attention as well as provided enough twist and turns for my adult active imagination. I will definitely be reading this book again.
5/3/22
5/3/22
May 20, 2022
This book is a very engaging story. I came across it as I have enjoyed other books by the author and thoroughly enjoyed it. I highly recommend it for the child at heart as well. In the beginning, we meet three children who suddenly disappear after buying toys in the emporium. They have shown themselves to be manipulative, lazy, and mean. The fourth child is kind, and his efforts prove to save them from the witch. The story is well-paced, with unexpected twists—a delightful read.
November 3, 2020
I chose this book to preview for my niece and nephew. It was much longer than the description mentioned, but still a very cute story with a valuable lesson for kids. The story of spoiled children who learn the error of their ways and work to correct the pain of bullying is definitely a book to share with young readers.
April 19, 2021
This book is Charlie's Chocolate Factory meets the Wizard of OZ! Where do you look when four children go missing the night they visit the local toy shop? Is the toy store owner responsible or is someone more sinister at work?
The kindness promoted in the book will absolutely melt you.
The kindness promoted in the book will absolutely melt you.
December 19, 2023
Love it
What a perfect book for Christmas. I read each chapter to my kids before putting them to sleep, and they always looked forward to the next day. The story is captivating and engaging. I will for sure follow the author's other books.
What a perfect book for Christmas. I read each chapter to my kids before putting them to sleep, and they always looked forward to the next day. The story is captivating and engaging. I will for sure follow the author's other books.
November 19, 2020
I loved it, it was magical adventure. Definitely recommend for kids and parents.
Currently reading
October 27, 2021I am excited about "Mr. Figgletoes Toy Emporium." I am getting lots of wonderful reviews from readers...I especially love hearing from the target audience: Middle-Grade Readers!
June 18, 2023
highly recommend
I really loved this story. It was engaging and had valuable life lessons. The illustrations also fit perfectly within the story.
I really loved this story. It was engaging and had valuable life lessons. The illustrations also fit perfectly within the story.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews