JoJo Maman Bebe Pocket New York Playset Review

Reviewed by Nina Chester

Just occasionally you find the perfect gift. For me JoJo Maman Bebe Pocket New York was that gift.

My niece had visited New York for her dream holiday prior to having children. Holiday photos of iconic landmarks can be found framed in her home and her young children are on a promise that one day they will go on a family holiday.

So, when Scarlett’s third birthday was approaching, I started to look for a nice gift that would have play value, appeal to her parents and endure her rough play; she’s not called Scarlsberg and Scarlzilla for no reason. This girl plays rough and plays hard, she has an amazing imagination and is great fun to be with.

Scarlett is a total opposite to my son at a similar age. He played with care and his wooden train track was his and therefore, our favourite toy, and I think given the current thinking around plastic and its damage to the world our future generations will inherit; wood was the way to go for this birthday gift. Imagine by delight when I found 18-piece wooden playset of New York (London is also available).

We do not have a ‘store with a door’ close to us but delivery was fast, packaging was not over the top, what would be the point of saving the planet but throwing away copious amounts of bubble wrap? If necessary, returns looked easy with a pre-printed returns label.

Scarlett’s big day arrived, and I wondered if my gift would make the grade as I am sure if you have a little one in your world, you know that they are not always subtle with disappointment. I need not have worried. New York not only made the grade it was the hit of the day and let me tell you why. The cube shaped box is sturdy and bright with a rope handle for storage and transportation. As Scarlett opened it each piece was wrapped in tissue paper 19 presents to unwrap. What could be better than that? She unwrapped each bit announcing to her audience what there was in “My town” She said ‘a river’ to Brooklyn bridge and named most things correctly as bus or café for JoJo Diner, this gave her mother the opportunity to tell her a little about the reality ‘My Lady’ the statue of Liberty was the biggest hit as It was recognized from family photos and a little dance accompanied that one. She set the town out and then Elsa of Frozen fame came to play, size was no barrier in fun that Elsa and Scarlett had.

This is a high-quality toy with loads of potential to add in other toys Playmobile, Brio, Happy Town. I am amazed that it’s has a reasonable price tag. This is a toy that will be passed down generations. Very few ever make that grade. But the iconic nature of the landmarks combined with the quality of the product, no paper label’s to peel. New York has durability no longer found in so many toys.

I only have one small criticism. No police car. New York without its screaming sirens wouldn’t be the same place. There are however two taxis so a police car wouldn’t have been a difficult add. I noticed the same in the London set. But rest assured that this will not be putting me off buying London for Christmas. 

So, since her birthday, I am told that “My Town” has been for a sleep over at Grandmas house. Into town on a shopping trip. And to summer club at church. This is a well-travelled toy whose box is key to the fun. But for every parent who has ever stood on a small hard toy the box is a godsend.

I would have no hesitation recommending this toy to anyone looking for quality, longevity and happiness at an affordable price.

Rating: 5/5

RRP: £15

For more information or to buy visit www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk.