EXHIBIT 23.1

                       CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the registration statement on
Form S-8 (File No. 333-07031) of our report dated October 21, 1996, on our
audits of the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule
of Play By Play Toys & Novelties, Inc. and Subsidiaries as of July 31, 1995 and
1996, and for the years ended July 31, 1994, 1995 and 1996, which report is
included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

                                            COOPERS & LYBRAND L.L.P.

Austin, Texas
October 29, 1996