DaytonDailyNews.com

We're impressed with a new line of toys for preschoolers that's totally green.

Sprig Toys Inc. is a company founded in 2007 by three toy industry veterans who got together with a goal of changing the way toys are made for kids.

Their Sprig Adventure Series is paint free and made from a recycled material called Sprigwood that's derived from recycled wood and reclaimed plastic.

When kids push and pump the vehicles, an internal generator is activated that runs the lights and sound, all without batteries The little characters wear LED-lit hats that plug into the vehicles to provide audio.

The toys, recommended for children ages 3 to 6, sell for $12.99 to $59.99 and are available in our area at Toys R Us and at Mr. Fub's Party in Yellow Springs. In keeping with the concept of green toys, no decorative paint is used, the packaging is minimal and earth-friendly.

For more information about the company's other products and other retail outlets, check out sprigtoys.com.

Wrinkles are in

The popcorn tops that have sold like crazy at Joli Boutique in Centerville now have a sister product that's also destined to be a popular gift. The new Origami shirt, from the same company, is also one-size-fits-all and made of a fabric that's also great for travel because the wrinkles are part of the attraction.

Like the popcorn shirts, the new ones come in a variety of colors and sleeve styles and can be worn with jeans, a business suit or for evening with a skirt.

The price is right, too: The shirts sell for $21.95. The boutique is located at 27 W. Franklin Street in Centerville. For information, call 434-6000.

Bird songs book

Nature lovers of all ages will love "Birdscapes," an amazing new book from Chronicle Books.

The subtitle is "A Pop-Up Celebration of Bird Songs in Stereo Sound."

Open the book and you'll be treated to seven full-color pop-ups depicting dozens of bird species in various Northern American habitats — from grasslands and a Sonoran desert to the Arctic Tundra.

At the same time you're gazing at the elaborate scene, you'll hear specific bird calls and songs in "stereo." As you turn the page, you'll hear different sounds!

The book also includes realistic illustrations of the birds and information about them and their ecosystems.

Very cool, with text by Miyoko Chu with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. The book sells for $60 and has AAA batteries included.

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2440 or mmoss@DaytonDailyNews.com.