Teddy Bears: A Complete Guide to History, Collecting, and Care

Covering every facet of bear-collecting, this book combines a visual treatment of the wealth of bears--350 in all--with solid information about their background, manufacture, and care, including how to start a collection. Organized by country, the book includes a healthy section on the U.S. and others on Germany, France, Australia, and Japan. 670 color photos.

From Steiff to Paddington and from Pooh to Muffy Vanderbear, stuffed teddy bears have for years been trusted and adored friends of old and young alike. In this generously illustrated guide, the authors provide aficionados with a wide range of information. The text is organized by country (with a 10-page section on the U.S.), listing a variety of teddy bear manufacturers complete with defining characteristics of their bears as well as current and collector prices. A section on designer bears and one entitled "A Bear Lover's Guide," which includes information on repair and restoration, storage, available magazines, and location of museums and fairs, round out the presentation. And even those who aren't interested in the teddy bear facts and lore will enjoy browsing, for the crisp photos are, like the teddys themselves, eye-catching and "bearly" resistible. Barbara Elleman