Collecting all kinds of objects, whether for amusement or survival, has long been a part of human history. Indeed, this hobby makes people willing to wait hours in line to get their hands on limited edition items. Some do it as an investment, while others simply see collecting as a hobby. One popular line of products, celebrating its 25th anniversary of charming people around the world this year, is the Cherished Teddies collection by the company Enesco.
Made up of over 2,000 figurines▼ and other accessories, the collection has received numerous awards as one of the leading brands of collectible▼ teddy bears around the world. Made to look like old-fashioned childhood treasures, Cherished Teddies were a huge hit when they were first introduced to the public in 1992. Self-taught▼ artist and creator of the collection, Priscilla Hillman said, "Each piece is an expression of a favorite childhood memory."
Though she majored in botany▼ in college, Hillman always held a passion for art. After spending several years as a research assistant, she decided to turn her attention back to art and found a career in book illustration. Then in the 1980s, Hillman had back problems that prevented her from doing anything for months. To pass the time, she watched old movies, looked at nostalgic▼ pictures, and dreamed up designs of what would eventually become Cherished Teddies.
These days, Hillman continues to design a whole range of characters with her son, Glenn. Together, they go around the country to meet their fans and sign their Cherished Teddies pieces. After all, a signed collectible is a valuable addition to any collection. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. What is Enesco?
(A) The company that owns the Cherished Teddies brand.
(B) The name of a collection of teddy bears.
(C) An award-winning figurine.
(D) The last name of the person who owns Cherished Teddies. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
2. What is one of the reasons why Cherished Teddies are so popular?
(A) They remind people of their own childhood.
(B) They are covered in precious stones▼.
(C) They are extremely rare and hard to buy.
(D) They have been given many awards. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
3. What is a lesson that can be learned from the third paragraph?
(A) Always try to create products that will be a huge hit.
(B) Always pursue your passion and your dreams.
(C) Return to school and get a degree if you can't find a job.
(D) Taking some time off to relax is never the answer. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
4. What is suggested by the last paragraph?
(A) Having the artist's signature on an item is worthless.
(B) Priscilla Hillman and her son collaborated to work on Cherished Teddies.
(C) Glenn Hillman has taken over designing Cherished Teddies from his mother.
(D) Traveling and meeting fans takes a lot of patience and time.
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