James May: My Sisters' Top Toys

In the programme, Top Gear presenter James May investigates why particular toys captivate people, probing the reasons behind their enduring popularity. He argues that these toys can serve as a social barometer, offering insights into society comparable to those found in a history book.

James May: My Sisters' Top Toys is a one‑off television programme presented by the former Top Gear host. The show centres on May’s curiosity about the toys that have captured his sisters’ imaginations over the years, and it offers a light‑hearted look at why those objects matter to them. In the episode May sets out to understand what makes particular toys so appealing. He examines the design, the way they’re played with and the memories they trigger, trying to get to the heart of why people keep reaching for them. By watching his sisters interact with their favourite playthings, he gathers first‑hand impressions that help him piece together the toys’ draw. Beyond the personal anecdotes, May argues that these toys can act as a sort of social barometer. He suggests that, much like a history book, the popularity and evolution of a toy can reveal broader cultural trends and shifts in attitudes. By comparing the toys’ characteristics with changes in society, he aims to show that they reflect more than just childhood fun. Throughout the programme, May’s approach remains conversational and inquisitive. He treats the toys as clues to a larger story about how people relate to the world around them, proposing that a simple plaything can hold the same insight into society as any traditional historical record.