I received an invitation from FAO Schwarz to preview their holiday toys. So, accompanied by some fortuitous company (my thirteen-year-old niece, Miss Sarah Riley of Austin, Texas) I was off to see the "Wizard of Toys."

No trip to New York is complete without a stop at FAO Schwarz, located at 767 Fifth Avenue on the south east tip of Central Park; no one is too young or too old to appreciate the enchantment.

Here is a quote from the FAO Schwarz press release: "From London to Nuremberg, to the far reaches of Asia, the FAO Schwarz team literally scoured the globe for the world's most unique toys. The fruits of their finds will be on display at the Holiday Preview, and include green products, a toy made out of soy, and toys that can be customized to make real what a child imagines."

So what did Miss Sarah Riley of Austin Texas think about her trip to FAO Schwarz? Well, I emailed her and here is reply: "When in New York, FAO Schwarz is a must. It is a memorable experience to say the least. From The giant piano to designing your own toy car FAO Schwarz is truly fantastic. The employees are friendly and always willing to help. But when planning to stop by for some fun, be sure and give yourself plenty of time because just you may not want to leave [we had Mamma Mia tickets]. The recent showing for the newest fall line of toys was indeed amazing. What child wouldn't enjoy having a puzzle of themselves or perhaps friends and family to put together again and again?"

P. S.: Sarah really wrote that and when she is older she should really write for www.newyorkcool.com or perhaps even FAO Schwarz.

P. P. S. FAO Schwarz is now home to the not-to-be-missed Harry Potter Shop, a five-hundred square foot boutique based on the store fronts from the Warner Brothers movies.

Barbie Rolling Bags


Exquisite Jungle Themed Painted Table and Chairs


Kurido Kids

For more information about FAO Schwarz, log onto fao.com.