Sample pages

The book has 256 pages, 251 colour and 164 b/w images, weighs 900 grams, has a soft cover and printed in full colour on an A4 format.

Each copy is numbered and signed by me.

It is far from a dull list of facts and figures, but very pleasing to read. It ties together various aspects in the history of plastic kit modelling, including links to other kit manufacturers such as Skybirds, Airfix, Revell, Aurora, etc. The story is told in a chronological order, starting in 1929, also explaining the effect of the historical context of World War II in which the Penguin kits appeared. A seperate chapter 1941-45 is added to explain the wartime activities and products of FROG / International Model Aircraft and its founders Joe Mansour, Charles and John Wilmot. It also explains the origins of 1/72 scale, injection moulding, the history and influence of box art and advertising.

It is written with the cooperation and consent of family members of Joe, Charles and John, sharing valuable memories and items with me, helping me to bring the story alive. It is based on an indepth study of all the literature, archives, museums, collectors and other sources that I was able to find. Most images have never been published before...

Richard Lines, co-author of "FROG Modelaircraft 1932 - 1976", at age 88 as I write, was an invaluable help in answering many questions about the early history of FROG.

Many personal and sometimes touching accounts of kit modellers are included, sharing their memories of the 1930s and 40s - now senior citizens in their 80s or 90s.

For those that collect and/or restore Penguin kits, practical hints and suggestions are included, as well as an up to date price guide.

Seperate chapters are added that provide information about the Penguin brand name, as well as other activities and ventures by Joe, Charles and John - as a tribute to their important role in the history of plastic kit modelling - now celebrating its 80th anniversary.