Written by Susan Veness
Published at F+W Media
About the book
Sure, it's the Happiest Place on Earth, but how much do the 45 million-plus people who visit the Disney World theme parks annually really know about it? From where to find all the hidden Mickeys to the truth behind Madame Leota's ring at the Haunted Mansion, readers learn all about the hidden magic that permeates these fabulous resorts in this tell-all handbook. Readers also get the insider's take on:
- The smell of home-baked cookies on Main Street in the Magic Kingdom
- The Fountain of World Friendship in Epcot that contains water from rivers and oceans around the globe
- Walt Disney's opening day speech tapped out in Morse Code in Frontierland
- The eco-friendly benches (recycled milk jugs) in the Animal Kingdom
- Two versions of The Great Movie Ride at Disney's Hollywood Studios
Complete with secret tips from Disney's Imagineers, this book is the perfect in-park companion for Disney World fans.
Who is Susan Veness?
Susan Veness (Orlando, FL) is a travel writer, researcher and itinerary planner specializing in Florida, Disney, and the theme parks. A former online travel agent, she became principal research assistant for the UK's bestselling Brit's Guide travel series in 2002. She also writes for a wide variety of newspapers, magazines, and other media. She has been visiting Walt Disney World since it opened in 1971 and, with a home just minutes from The Mouse, she continues to tour the parks on a regular basis.
My Thoughts
After going through this book, I am so looking forward to be able to bring my kids to Walt Disney World and explore their secrets. I want to feel it, smell it, experience it with my family.
The book is divided in four major chapters;
- The Magic Kingdom – Main Street U.S.A., Fantasyland, Liberty Square, Frontierland, Adventureland, Tomorrowland, Mickey’s Toontown Fair, and Magic Kingdom’s Timeline.
- Epcot – Future World, World Showcase, and Epcot Timeline.
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Hollywood Boulevard, Sunset Boulevard, courtyard, Animation Courtyard, Pizar Studios, Streets of America, Commissary Lane, Echo Lake, Hollywood Hills Amphitheater, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios Timeline
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom – Entrance, The Oasis, Discovery Island, DinoLand U.S.A., Asia, Africa, Camp Minnie-Mickey, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Timeline.
When I went through the book, I could see that a lot of things have changed since the last time we went there during our honeymoon more than 13 years ago. Time flies… And I dream to bring my own kids to Walt Disney World.
An apartment suite was included in the original design of the castle, although Walt passed away before it was built. His brother Roy was offered the suite, but declined. It became a storage location and is now used as an area for castle performers to relax.
This in only an example of many other tidbits of information that can be found throughout the book about the four theme park that you can visit at Walt Disney World. One of the few things we saw while going to Walt Disney World back in 1998, was this electrical post next to the highway. I thought it was very original that someone has decided to do this.
Throughout the book you will also find fascinating fact about the theme parks. For example, did you know that…
Natural pest management is used throughout Walt Disney World. Disney releases 250,000 warrior insects – they get rid of harmful pests – each year, and even allows guests to take part via the Ladybug Release at Epcot. Interestingly enough, feral cats also roam Disney property, working hard to keep the rodent population down…
Knowing this I am wondering when the Ladybug Release is happening because you can bet that I would love to participate to this… It would be totally cool and I know for sure that my little ladybug would adore this too!
Bottom line, if you are a regular of Walt Disney World and would love to discover a new facet of the park, I suggest that you get yourself a copy of The Hidden Magic of Walt Disney World. And if you are not a regular (like us), this book should also be in your luggage next time you decide to explore the park especially if you have kids with you. It would be a delight to discover Walt Disney with a guide book like this one.
As for us, I am keeping our copy because I know we will use it quite a bit on our next visit.
The Hidden magic of Walt Disney World is available at your favourite bookstore, even amazon.ca.
Disclaimer: Thanks to Thomas Nelson for sending me the featured product for review purpose. I was not monetarily compensated for this review. Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own.
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