Recall: Kingfisher Publications Recall of Children’s Easter Books

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 30, 2004 Release # 04-110

Firm’s Hotline: (800) 289-4371 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

CPSC, Kingfisher Publications Announce Recall of Children’s Easter Books

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announces the following recall in voluntary cooperation with the firm below. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of product: My Easter Basket Book

Units: About 5,000

Manufacturer/Importer: Kingfisher Publications PLC, a UK-based subsidiary of Houghton Mifflin Company, of Boston, Mass.

Hazard: A sponge “touch-and-feel” item inside the book can detach or small pieces can be torn away, posing a choking hazard to young children.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received one report of a child who began to choke. No reports of injuries.

Description: The cardboard book has “My Easter Basket Book” printed on the cover in pink letters over an Easter basket. “First Holiday Books” and “Touch & feel” also are written on the cover. The book includes photos of marshmallow candy, plush toys, lollipops and candy typically found in Easter baskets. The book incorporates textured touch-and feel-surfaces. “KINGFISHER” is written on the book’s spine and back cover.

Sold at: Retailers nationwide from February 2004 through March 2004 for about $8.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should take these books away from young children immediately, and return the books to Kingfisher Publications PLC, Customer Service, 181 Ballardvale St., Wilmington, MA 01887 for a refund and postage reimbursement.

Consumer Contact: Call Kingfisher toll-free at (800) 289-4371 between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, send an e-mail to trade_customer_service@hmco.com.