NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

CPSC, Chronicle Books Announce Children's Book Recall

WASHINGTON, DC - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Chronicle Books of San Francisco, Calif., is voluntarily recalling two of its titles: "Splish Splash" and "Fuzz & Fur" books. CPSC has tested the books and determined that their plastic binder bolts may separate, presenting a choking hazard to young children.

The books, measuring 7 inches wide by 6 inches tall, are made of heavy cardboard fastened together by two plastic bolts. The front and back covers have cut outs filled with fabric. The cover of "Fuzz & Fur," item number ISBN 0-8118-0377-5, has a juvenile drawing of a child and bear on the front and a child on the back. The cover of "Splish Splash," item number ISBN 0-8118-0346-5, shows a child and bathtub on the front and a child and duck on the back. Both books come wrapped in clear plastic and are labeled in part: "$5.95, Chronicle Books, 275 Fifth Street, San Francisco, CA 94103, Happy Baby Books, Copyright 1995 by Lizi Boyd, Printed in the Philippines."

The majority of these books were sold nationwide between May 1 and June 19, 1995. Between May 1 and May 26, 5,903 copies of "Fuzz and Fur" and 5,397 copies of "Splish Splash" were released into the marketplace. The books were sold through a variety of book and specialty outlets including chain and discount stores; toy stores; book stores; gift stores; gourmet stores; stationary stores; college/university stores; wholesalers; museum stores and galleries.

Consumers should take these books away from young children immediately and return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers who have questions about this recall can call Chronicle Books at (800) 722-6657 from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. PST.

CPSC was notified about the hazardous books by the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection and Chronicle Books. CPSC and Chronicle Books are not aware of any injuries involving these books. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.