
Get ready to embark on an epic journey into the history of Palitoy, the UK toy company that captivated generations of Star Wars fans. A new Kickstarter campaign, launching in Q1 of 2025 from Total Toy Books, seeks to fund the creation of the definitive tome on Palitoy’s Star Wars legacy: Total Star Wars Toys: The Palitoy Saga.
While many fans associate Palitoy with the iconic cardboard Death Star playset, Total Star Wars Toys: The Palitoy Saga dives much deeper. The book explores the fascinating complexities of bringing Star Wars toys to market in a fledgling era, from navigating limited source material to
responding to retailer shortages and maintaining momentum between films.
The book will include exclusive interviews with the creative minds who shaped Palitoy’s Star Wars output, including Bob Brechin: Chief Designer, Roger Morrison: Tooling Manager, John Holmes: Manufacturing Manager, Geoff Maisey: Marketing and Brand Manager for Star Wars, Carol Deighton: Head of Monroe/Deighton PR, Nick Farmer: creator of iconic Star Wars displays and promotional items; and Dave Barnacle, the Designer at Ray Hastings Studios,, who was responsible for much of Palitoy’s Star Wars marketing materials.
Unveiling the Stories Behind the Toys
The book delves into the fascinating stories behind these beloved toys, from their initial design concepts to the manufacturing processes and marketing campaigns that captivated a generation. The book will be a visual feast, featuring hundreds of stunning images of these iconic toys, including rare photographs and promotional materials.
The upcoming Kickstarter campaign features exciting stretch goals that will elevate the book for fans. Supporters can unlock additional pages, a premium hardcover edition, and even a bespoke-designed, deluxe slipcase.



Beyond the Toys: Exploring the British Comic Book Connection
Total Star Wars Toys: The Palitoy Saga also explores the unique contributions of British comic book creators like Alan Moore, Paul Neary, and John Higgins to the Star Wars universe.
This Kickstarter campaign offers Star Wars fans a chance to be part of preserving this importantpiece of pop culture history.
Total Toy Books is dedicated to creating high-quality publications that explore the fascinating
world of collectible toys and pop culture phenomena
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The founder of downthetubes, which he established in 1998. John works as a comics and magazine editor, writer, and on promotional work for the Lakes International Comic Art Festival. He is currently editor of Star Trek Explorer, published by Titan – his third tour of duty on the title originally titled Star Trek Magazine.
Working in British comics publishing since the 1980s, his credits include editor of titles such as Doctor Who Magazine, Babylon 5 Magazine, and more. He also edited the comics anthology STRIP Magazine and edited several audio comics for ROK Comics. He has also edited several comic collections, including volumes of “Charley’s War” and “Dan Dare”.
He’s the writer of “Pilgrim: Secrets and Lies” for B7 Comics; “Crucible”, a creator-owned project with 2000AD artist Smuzz; and “Death Duty” and “Skow Dogs” with Dave Hailwood.
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