Collecting Action Figures presents an alphabetical survey of each of the major toy manufacturers and the whole array of action figures they produced. Covering everything from old-school GI Joe and Action Man figures, including the fantastic toys of Louis Marx and Mego, right through to the game-changing Star Wars 3-inch action figures of the 1970s and 1980s, this is the must-have reference guide for enthusiasts and beginners alike. With over 200 colour photographs, it details the history of action figures arising from the launch of fashion dolls in the 1950s; it describes the industry and consumer reactions to the first action figures; it reviews the many different incarnations that came to market; it looks at film and television tie-ins and finally, provides an essential guide to where to find gems, what to pay and how to look after them.

"Books like this which are well-researched and provide much of the information enthusiasts need when pursuing their hobby and are a vital tool for the hobbyist, but sadly today, too many hobbyists would rather rely on the often shaky knowledge of others on the internet when what they need to know can invariably be found in a good book such as this. This is a rattling good read." - Constant Scale - Journal of the Airfix Collectors Club