Radio Flyer: 100 Years of America’s Little Red Wagon [9780062838995]

Overview

USA TODAY Bestseller

A visual history of one of childhood’s most beloved icons—the Little Red Wagon—told through a rich collection of photos and stories that highlight its unique place in American culture.

For generations, the Radio Flyer—the fire engine red wagon with the distinctive white logo emblazoned on its side—has fueled the imaginative adventures of children, transforming them into astronauts on a rocket ship to the moon, racecar drivers in the Indy 500, and pioneers traveling into the badlands of the Wild West. The Radio Flyer is the story of childhood—a story of wondrous journeys often accompanied by someone important: a parent, a sibling, a friend, a pet.

Since 1917, the family-owned business Radio Flyer Inc. has created this cherished wagon, building a legacy of high quality, timeless, and innovative toys that spark children’s imaginations and inspire active play outdoors. With more than 100 million wagons sold—many of them passed down from generation to generation—Radio Flyers have carried, hauled, and fueled more hours of magical escapades than any other children’s ride-on toy in America.

This beautifully designed and illustrated keepsake book pays homage to this cultural touchstone as it celebrates its first centenary and embarks on its second. Packed with 250 exclusive full-color and black-and-white illustrations, stories, and original drawings from the Radio Flyer Inc. archives, Radio Flyer chronicles the history of this popular brand for the first time. Radio Flyer’s story is America’s story—a story of an enterprising Italian immigrant’s dream realized, and a testament to the value and strength of family ties.

Including a host of tender reminiscences from fans across the country, this touching tribute is a special piece of childhood, and the perfect gift for everyone who’s ever loved a Little Red Wagon.

This one-of-a-kind collection details the making of an American classic:

• The American Dream: Follow the journey of founder Antonio Pasin, a sixteen-year-old Italian immigrant who arrived in America with nothing and built a timeless legacy.
• A Visual History: Pore over more than 250 exclusive photos, original drawings, and historical documents straight from the Radio Flyer archives.
• Family-Owned Business: Discover how three generations of the Pasin family navigated a century of American history, from the Great Depression to the Digital Age.
• An American Icon: Learn the story behind the Little Red Wagon, a cultural touchstone that has fueled the imaginations of more than 100 million children.