Walt Disney's Disneyland

BOOK DETAILColophon: Taschen provides a content information page which confirms a First Edition as opposed to the more traditional number line.Endpapers: Both. Vintage Disneyland wall maps from 1958, in-focus and sharp.Exact page count of main body: really 328 not 352Exact weight: (my trusty kitchen scale): 5 1/2 pounds (5pound.5oz) 2.41 KilogramsISBN 978-3-8365-6348-2Measurements: Top to Bottom = 13.1" Side to Side = 9.5" Thickness = 1.1"Paper covered boards: Color is an "orange creamsicle or orange push-up", embossed, and "Disneyland" and "Taschen" blocked in true white.Paper stock: Heavy archival, nearly playing card like - prints show a wonderful clarity.Slipcover: Heavy no-fingerprint stock, embossed and "Disneyland" is foil blocked in beautiful "antique" gold.SRP: $60 Amazon SavingsSwiss bound: Pages are attached to the inside back cover, spine and cover free to open flat.THE PAGE BY PAGE"Once Upon A Time:" (Introduction) pages 13 & 14"Walt's Dream": pages 19 to 51"The park comes to life": 56 to 211"The vision continues": 215 to 264Carefully printed, large photographs: pages 264 thru 321Endnotes, selected bibliography and acknowledgements: 322 thru 328Pages not included here are section covers or more historic photographic perfection!REVIEW**REVIEW**REVIEW**THIS IS THE REVIEW**REVIEW**REVIEW**REVIEW"WALT'S DREAM": SECTION 1In "Walt's Dream" It's more about the photographs, free of any manipulations outside of restoring them as close to their originals as possible. What I mean is no cropping or collages, colorization or other more modern graphic techniques often found in today's Disneyland books. Coupled with a concise story of how Walt and his brother Roy worked to build a new "play park". A park for their new "show" and that's what draws your interest. In other books we often are told myriad of ways that the attractions discussed are already completed. With author Chris Nichols' background in architectural history, we explore small general ideas and structural histories that percolate into the inspiration, and ultimately into Walt's "park". By taking time to explore the rare photographs, the extended captions and early history, the readers are set for further discovery in the sections that follow. And the exploration brings the reader along on a story, of the birth of an essentially new stagecraft, that even the financial lenders of the period just couldn't wrap their minds around. Both Walt and Roy discovered that pronto! Even today, Disneyland alters our perceptions of what we deem a Theme Park. Of course Disneyland really isn't, although those without an intimate knowledge of it's creation and Walt and Roys direction likely would not know any difference. And Walt hoped it a place that could change the way families interacted and played together. A place where they would most assuredly find themselves enveloped in a shared world of illusionary experiences. Walt's idea grew from a carousel at Griffith Park, and then evolved to a few acres adjacent to the studios. But before that idea even turned a shovel, it ultimately morphed to what Walt realized in his dreams. In short, to provide memorable experiences to families everywhere! It would no longer be just about a park where children and parents could have fun together. It was soon to be much, much more!"THE PARK COMES TO LIFE": SECTION 2The park comes to life. Once again, let me remind you that as in the first section, this book is truly about those memorable photographs. I had heard prior to publication, that many of the pictures had been part of other books available about the park. Well, in my opinion that simply isn't the case. Even if you HAD seen them, let me be perfectly clear...you HAVE NOT seen them truly until you see them as Taschen sees them! You'll be enthralled by each and every one. True, there are one or two that are duplicates from those Marty Sklar authored, five or ten year "Disneyland" souvenir books. But outside of those very few, not only will they delight but they are greatly enriched by the addition of the architectural art along the way.Let me share with you something I hate to admit after 40+ years! Outside of animation used in attraction development throughout the parks, my true interests rarely stray. Animation in and of itself is just not where it's at for me! There it is, my first time acknowledging it in public! In short, if not within the park itself it's unlikely to sit on my shelves or stacked neatly on my Coffee Table. I really find little interest in park history books heavy with long story boards of animation, showing how films we're adapted for use within the park. I mention it here because there is indeed unbelievable art throughout, and particularly in this section of the book. The art I am referring to however, is not comprised of storyboards but rather, richly detailed and colorful architectural "schematics" if you will. I love every one and great care was taken to include them with the right photographs and the correct place within this story! Believe me, I have several books in which continuity is second. The photographs are nearly all in full-color, and most are a full page or stunning double page spreads. I really enjoyed looking at the huge early photograph inside Walt Disney's Tiki Room. I loved looking at the birds, the lighting, Tiki's, but I particularly enjoyed looking at GLEE! And not just in the birdie glee club! That's right, glee in the eyes of the children AND the adults! It was easy to see that the Disney brothers had succeeded...and wildly so! Secondary to the photos, there is a page or two written on each "land" with stories that are excellent "hooks" to reel you in. Actually, they are very important to the overall presentation, but it's difficult to compete with the storied photos in an art book format such as this!"THE VISION CONTINUES": SECTION 3Of course it does! And much more than just "in a land far, far, away!" I really don't wish to spoil any part of this book! Let me just say that it's as good or better than the first two Disneyland sections by themselves. If you are an amateur or future Imagineer, and are familiar and love the two previous Disney books on the subject, you will find a great deal to appreciate here also. Starting with the 1964 New York World's Fair and expanding into all the other areas that Walt and Roy could dream up! You'll be reading and sharing this book over and over! You will also likely discover the very *best overall Disneyland Story on anyones shelf! The presentation of the art, the story and the photographs will bring this incredible journey of Walt's life to it's beautiful new beginning, or more succinctly put, "a source of joy and inspiration to all the world!"ADDITIONALLY: "SO WHERE WAS MY BOOK?" A SHARED EXPERIENCE(Written prior to my review) First, I am very happy to report that a pristine copy of "Walt Disney's Disneyland" by Southern Californias' Chris Nichols, arrived via my U.P.S. delivery man last Wednesday. Safely packaged in shrink wrap and secured within it's box with bubble-puffs.This book was on-order through Amazon for nearly nine months...since January 11th. But, I was soon left asking myself 'why now the two month delay on Amazon delivery'? I knew from Taschen's website as they announced a September 12th release date. Within "bookdom", I try my best to order early enough to get the Antiquarian's version of The Holy Grail. That is, a first printing of a first edition...so I initially was an unhappy Amazonian. I often felt like a monkey swinging in circles from vine to vine, all the while on the phone with customer service! Most of you likely wouldn't bother, but when it's Disneyland...you need look no farther than my "public name" to know where my loyalties lie!So I quickly sent Taschen my questions as my Amazonian Princess was unable to provide specific answers. I received a very prompt and professional letter back within a few hours, courteously stating that while their policy is to "never discuss third-party distribution", indicated that "our wonderful book is" "at our warehouse". Good to know. At least I felt better told that I could obtain my 1st/1st and left my additional Amazon purchase as-is, for perhaps a gift. Or even best of all, a second copy after my first is well worn with tattered pages, simply the love shown to a favorite book by three delighted Grandchildren!Speaking of Amazon, I was pleased to receive an adjusted delivery date of September 27th, which I appreciated very much as special effort on this customers behalf.I am no reviewer of books, but I would hope to represent a true review of this five pound+ tome. So, I'm going to try to skip any of my over-the-top fanatical Disneyland insights that creep into my thoughts! Or let's just say those that wouldn't normally be of interest to the average Disneyphile! Oh yes, I did however include just one "fan creeper" below, purely to relieve my pressure valve! And also, for all my fellow Disneyland amateur historians out there, to show that I didn't let them down! This is always a problem when in possession of 227 volumes on Disneyland, the original park, alone! That "magical day" fairy dust, seems to glitter my life often these days...and so it goes!AND NOW..."BUT IT JUST BUGS ME!"And finally, here is one of those aforementioned "brain creepers" that drive we fanatics to find and take our meds....ok, not really! It's just these very anal tidbits that bother me from the git go. Fortunately, I really couldn't find more than a couple. Not to sound boastful, it really is to the credit of Mr.Nichols and his team.One of the nice "plusses" of this volume is the initial four page wide gatefold, featuring the main entry at Disneyland. As nearly any amateur Disneyland historian would immediately take note, there is a little something missing. Small yes, but measured by historical importance, JUST HUGE! It's those little bronze plaque's, centered above the tunnels when walking under the train tracks, just prior to stepping on to Main Street U.S.A. Plaza. There was no reference to it in the story either. As I understand, they we're placed at Walt's direction and are replicated at every Disneyland Park worldwide. They read as follows: "Here you leave today and enter the world of yesterday, tomorrow and fantasy". I enjoyed the book very much. But with this one tiny caveat. One flip of this fold-out will be enough for this self-proclaimed Disneyland fanatic!*Greatest esteem held for the following Disneyland authors: Mr. Kurtti, Mr.Gennawey, Mr. Crump, and the late Mr. Bright, Mr. Gordon and Mr. Mumford among others. Disneyland Amateur Historians Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary All City Hall, Disneyland U.S.A 92802**This is one splurge you won't regret!***DISCLAIMER, THE FINE PRINT, & THE END: This review and it's content are entirely my own, I received nothing from anyone as compensation or anything else for writing it.

This book contains hundreds of phenomenal vintage pictures and concept art of Disneyland during its first few years of operation. Each image has its own caption giving context which is greatly appreciated. I am able to look at this book for hours just studying the art work and photography seeing how much the park has changed. I wish it contained more information about modern day Disneyland, but it is understandable as it is not the focus of the book. Overall I think this is a great buy for any fan of the Disney parks.

The Pros: This is an extra large heavy hardcover Disneyland coffee table book. It's jampacked with all sorts of information surrounding the creation of the Disneyland park. Large illustrations and photographs both black and white and color of the happiest place on Earth. It takes the reader on a journey of an idea in Walt Disney's mind to the building and blossoming of the popular amusement park. This makes a great coffee table book for the living room table or library, or an office with visitors waiting.The Cons: The only con is that more than half the book is on the parks creation. While it's all fascinating information, it may not be anything ground breaking or new to Disney fans. I just wish the book was more heavily focused on the park from 1980 til now. There doesn't seem to have been any Disneyland book that focuses on the Disneyland of today. It's always in the past, which we have more than enough on. That was the only disappointment I had with this. Maybe one day a hardcover book of this calibre will primarily focus on the park post 1980.Overall this is still a great book if you don't own much on Disneyland. It's a beautiful book and classy looking. There may not be anything new for the hardcore fans though.

This is easily a 5 star book. Thoroughly enjoyable. Laudable effort. Disneyland is such a special place, so books such as these had better be special too. Hooray - this one passes muster! I will rank both "Disneyland Inside Story" by Randy Bright (and it is rather silly to consider this "Walt Disney's Disneyland" as a remake-copycat - for one thing Inside Story is a 30 year snapshot whereas this one covers 60 years) and "Disneyland: The Nickel Tour" by Mumford and Gordon significantly superior to this one. However those books are out of print and very expensive. You cannot go wrong purchasing this book. It is an immensely enjoyable combination of the best illustrations available as well as a pleasingly written account. The author offers a unique perspective with an entirely different "voice" from those previously published major Disneyland books. I encourage you to also obtain a copy of Disneyland Inside Story while price fluctuations are low; and especially the beloved tome "Nickel Tour" though it's now priced beyond affordability. For a brand-new book, especially in absence of those older books, at a price within reach, expertly produced... this "Walt Disney's Disneyland" is a must-buy.

This book is amazing! And it looks great on a coffee or end table! Many people have complimented it.

Used book?Looks BRAND NEW!!Most fantastic book about Disneyland I've ever seen.300 plus page of great pictures and interesting history.

This book is amazing, it is filled with high detailed photos and information about Disneyland and I enjoy it thoroughly

I used this book to add to my Disney collection. Excellent resource on Disneyland.

Para los amantes del original parque Disneyland, es un agasajo visual. Fotos nunca antes publicadas con información poco conocida. Un excelente libro con la calidad de TASCHEN.

Absolutamente lindo !!!!!!!! Para os fãs desta terra mágica é um deleite !

High quality book . beautifully assembled with details and stunning photos on the history of the Famous Anaheim Park ... A Must for the Die hard Fan or anyone interested in how this park has evolved over the decades since it was first opened to the world by Walt Disney in 1955...

This book is amazing. I’m really happy about it. Everything came absolutely perfect. Thank you so much for it ♥️

A great expose on Disneyland from the beginnings right on throuugh.