and The Brave Little Toaster Goes to Mars were books by Thomas M. Disch, science fiction writer. They were supposed to be children's books, but they aren't, really. They are whimsical.
Even though I follow science fiction closely, I did not learn about these books until about six years after their publication. The first one was published in 1980. Oddly enough, an elementary school kid clued me in to the books. He came to the library where I was working and he wanted those books.
I found both books delightful. The back cover features a picture of the author with all the old-style appliances.
Disch was a wonderful writer. He was also a sensitive soul. He suffered from depression and mental breakdowns. When his life partner died, he went through a terrible time. Eventually he committed suicide. I wish someone could have helped him.
Read the books. There is more there than meets the eye. And I agree with you about Toy Story!