Don't Make Me Release The Flying Monkeys

What are some age-appropriate toys for an 8-month-old child? I'd like to send a box of a few gifts to the grandnephew, to kick off his first summer. When buying toys, I usually read the tag to see what age it's recommended for, but I imagine my friends with more baby experience than me can report on what toys were most popular with your little ones at 8 months.

Thanky!

_{PS -- He can not have a cell phone, although I'm sure that would be his first choice. He will have to settle for abusing other people's cellphones for now.}