Spring is finally in the air, which means we are due for another instalment of Resource Round-Up! Over on Instagram, I’ve been sharing many books over the past couple of months. Some I’ve read cover-to-cover, others I’ve flipped through on occasion, while a few still remain on my TBR list. Nonetheless, all great resources that I really want to highlight for you, in case you’re looking for your next read or another resource for your research. So, let’s get into it!
After Disney: Toil, Trouble, and the Transformation of America's Favorite Media Company by Neil O’Brien
First up, we have what is currently one of my favourite reads of the year! After Disney: Toil, Trouble, and the Transformation of America’s Favorite Media Company by Neil O’Brien dives into the details of what happened within The Walt Disney Company after Walt Disney’s passing in 1966.
I just recently finished reading this book and I absolutely loved it! Two things I found most impressive about it: first, this book is written in such a way that it reads like a novel. Neil is such a great writer—I was hooked on his every word! Second, was learning about how long it took Neil to research and write this book— it took him a total of 17 years! As I’ve been working through my own research on the Disney studio library, I can appreciate the time he took to dedicate to this project. Writing a book is no easy thing to do, so I applaud Neil for sticking with it, because the result of his labour has been a masterpiece!
If you’re fascinated by the business-side of Disney, as well as learning more about Ron Miller’s contributions, CalArts, and Disney animation’s efforts in developing The Black Cauldron, then this is definitely a must-read!
Disney Trivia from the Vault: Secrets Revealed and Questions Answered by Dave Smith
During my recent trip to Florida, I had the chance to visit Recycling the Magic! Once a booth at the Lakeland Antique Mall, they recently just opened up their very own storefront in Oakland, Florida. This shop is packed with Disney props, collectibles, cast member exclusives, and so much more.
Being a bit of a Disney history nerd, I was truly in awe of their collection, but my find of the day was a signed copy of Disney Trivia from the Vault: Secrets Revealed and Questions Answered by the infamous Dave Smith. Dave was the Disney Archivist who founded The Walt Disney Archives—he also happens to be a bit of a personal hero of mine (he had his MLIS and was also a former librarian before his archive days)!
You may be familiar with Dave Smith though from his “Ask Dave” magazine column, where he would answer Disney trivia questions from people all over the world. This book is a compilation of some of those questions. The book is divided into chapters that cover various aspects of Disney history, from Disneyland and Walt Disney World, to Disney films, television, and characters.
I’ve been collecting Dave’s books for years now, so when I spotted this one on the shelf, I had to grab it. It’s an oldie but a goodie. Also, if you’re ever in the Oakland area, definitely check out Recycling the Magic—just like me, you never know what piece of Disney history you might bring home with you!
Jim Henson: The Biography by Brian Jay Jones
I regretfully have not started this one yet, but it is on my list! Jim Henson: The Biography by Brian Jay Jones takes a closer look at the man behind the Muppets. Henson’s creativity and innovation shaped so many childhoods (including mine!) so I can’t wait to finally dive into this one and learn more about Jim and his work!
Kem Weber: Mid-Century Furniture Designs for the Disney Studios by David A. Bossert
I was recently introduced to the book Kem Weber: The Designer of Disney’s Iconic Animation Furniture by David A. Bossert and it’s fantastic! Kem Weber was a well-known architect and furniture designer, who not only helped shape California’s relaxed aesthetic that we know and love today, but he was also the chief designer for The Walt Disney Studios in Burbank in 1939.
This book provides a closer look at the Disney animation furniture Kem Weber designed, filled with concept sketches, photos, and interviews. What made this book exciting for me was the fact that it includes two pieces of concept art featuring the Walt Disney Studio Research Library!
If you love Disney history, animation, or design, this one is definitely worth a read.
Maps of the Disney Parks: Charting 60 Years from California to Shanghai by Kevin Neary, Susan Neary, and Vanessa Hunt
One of my favourite things to collect when I visit the Disney parks is maps. I’ve loved collecting them ever since I was little —there’s just something magical about seeing how the parks have changed (or stayed the same) over time. Because of my map-obsession, I was ecstatic to finally add Maps of the Disney Parks to my bookshelf. It’s a beautiful visual display of park history through the decades and it’s full of all kinds of nostalgic details. I especially love its use of bold and bright colours throughout—it really is a visual treat to flip through!
Disneyana: Classic Collectibles 1928-1958 by Robert Heide and John Gilman
Another guilty pleasure I have is collectibles. Disneyana: Classic Collectibles by Robert Heide and John Gilman is an illustrated guide that dives deep into the magical world of Disney collectibles from the years 1928-1958. From toys and lunch boxes to books and watches, this book acts like a time capsule for Disney memorabilia. If you’re someone who’s also into Disney merch and collectibles, especially if you want to see some original pieces from the early days, then you’ll love this book—it’s an absolute treasure trove!
The Jungle Cruise: The Wild History of Walt’s Favorite Ride by David “Dr. Skipper” Marley
I just got my hands on a copy of this book and I couldn’t be more excited to read it! The Jungle Cruise: The Wild History of Walt’s Favorite Ride by David “Dr. Skipper” Marley takes readers on a journey through the fascinating history of one of Disney’s most iconic attractions. From the Imagineers who dreamed it, to the Skippers who brought it to life, I’m excited to learn more about Jungle Cruise’s development, operations, and all the behind-the-scenes details!
Side Note: If you love this book, Dr. Skipper has a couple of other titles you may enjoy—definitely give his Skipper Stories books a read!
Directing at Disney: The Original Directors of Walt’s Animated Films by Don Peri and Pete Docter
Thanks to one of my favourite librarians, I was able to add this lovely addition to my Disney book collection! Directing at Disney is a behind-the-scenes look at the original directors who helped shape the golden age of Disney animation. It’s packed with insights, photos, and stories that bring these creative individuals to life.
I’m really enjoying all the books that have been coming out that are highlighting the many different people involved in the movie-making process. Everyone has a job to do, and not everyone’s role is obvious to audiences. I find it all so fascinating and I’m looking forward to learning more about the director’s role in particular!
That’s it for this Resource Round-Up—as always, thank you for reading! Any titles here that you’ve already read? Which ones are you wanting to add to your wish lists? Let me know your favourites in the comments!
So many great reads! I think Kem designed Walt and Lillian’s apartment in Disneyland. The name sounded familiar from the tour of the space.