I don't really remember this, although I'm about the same age as the author. I do remember Riviton, which was similar but had reusable rubber rivets that you st

I don't really remember this, although I'm about the same age as the author. I do remember Riviton, which was similar but had reusable rubber rivets that you stretched lengthwise with the "riveting" tool, then released, whereupon the rivet would return to its original width, holding the bond in place until removed with the same tool. Unfortunately the rivets turned out to be a choking hazard (two children died) and it was recalled (though I kept my set): https://toytales.ca/riviton-from-parker-brothers-1977/ https://toytales.ca/riviton-from-parker-brothers-1977/