AnswerI wouldn't say they're "popular" because more of the flashy plastic "themed" toys tend to be more "popular" nowadays, but I can say as a parent of two toddlers that they are wonderful for kids to play with. It forces imagination (whereas a lot of toys nowadays limit it because there's one set thing to do with the toy), are virtually indestructible, and will last them for years as their imagination changes and matures.