Books about Secrets of WDW/Walt Disney's vision/etc.??

[MSMomTJ]

Before our trip in March, I would love to read all about WDW -- why Walt Disney wanted things the way they are, all the special touches, etc. I looked at The Hidden Magic of Walt Disney World, but then I read some reviews about the info not being accurate. Can any of you recommend books for me?

 

[ginnymack]

I read read Realityland by Koenig. Some say it is a bit harsh on Disney, I think it is a pretty unvarnished look at the business side and history of the park. As much as I like to belive in the magic - bottom line, it is still a business - and this book covers that pretty well. It definately peels back the layers of the onion.

I am currently reading Hidden Magic and I like it so far. I have run across a few things that are not accurate, but at press time they were. I think it is a good book in terms of pointing out all of the little things that you would miss, even if you were a regular park goer. It is a good reminder that it is not all about the 2 or 3 or 4 minute ride...notice the queue, the little things, and most of all, remember to look at the whole story that is being told!

Also, just hanging out here you can get more info than from any book!

 

[MSMomTJ]

Hmmm...I like the whole onion -- I don't want it to see the layers peeled back! lol At least, not right now. It sounds like an interesting book, though!

I have definitely learned so much from this board!!! I am quite addicted.

 

[ginnymack]

Yes, Realityland is not for those who want the pixie dust secrets! I was a business major in college, so the business side really facinates me. So often the business motto is cheap, fast, or right - pick two. But that is not really how Disney operates. Yes, there are times when creativity may be sacrificed for $, but it was really interesting to find out what wasn't sacrificed. For example, many argued that the castle should be visible from the interstate - draw people in. Ultimately, it was hidden way back on the property costing MILLIONS more in (60's dollars) because infrastructure had to be built first. The result was that magical moment when you see it for the first time. Creativity won!

I would try Hidden Secrets - even if there are inaccuracies - it is a great tour companion that will point out small magical things you would other wise never look for or see. I kind of like the idea of appreciating all of the extras the imagineers did. Everyone should have their work appreciated!

 

[MSMomTJ]

I kind of like the idea of appreciating all of the extras the imagineers did. Everyone should have their work appreciated!

I agree! I like to watch the entire movie credits because all of those people deserve to have their name read by the audience!

 

[Hootch]

thread on these boards that covers a lot of the hidden touches. I'll link it below. Hidden Secrets was fine. There were a lot of things I already knew and a lot of acknowledged supposition. Still it was on sale and not that expensive so I thought it was worthwhile. There are also Imagineering Guides for MK, Epcot and Disney's Animal Kingdom available. The DHS guide is supposed to be out this Spring. These are small books that explain why certain things were done in the parks. MK was the most interesting to me. Disney's Animal Kingdom was the most detailed - not surprising since it is the most recent park. I found Epcot to be very dry. I'm hoping DHS is a mix of DAK and MK. There are elements at the park that give it that potential.

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=35230679#post35230679