Despite Disney continually claiming otherwise, the dumpster fire that is 2020 made it inevitable that Mulan would debut on Disney+. However, with the news that it will cost an additional $29.99 (for “Premier Access”) on top of the basic monthly subscription, the audience is divided.

Yes, $29.99 is cheaper than a trip to the movie theater for many families. Yes, you can pause, go back, and rewatch the film as many times as you want. Yes, you can watch from the comfort of your home without the distractions of annoying strangers.

But no, most households don’t have a theater setup to experience the film on an enormous screen or with immersive sound. And no, I don’t like the precedent this will set for future marquee titles. And no, I certainly don’t like that they’re putting this film behind a paywall – this film that stars an all-Asian cast and has a female director.

This is precisely the type of film that big studios need to make MORE of, and I fear that audiences will be put off by the $29.99 buy-in, which will make Disney think that there’s no audience for “this type” of film.

(Listen to our conversation with the co-director of the animated Mulan, Tony Bancroft, here.)

So will I pay up for Premier Access to watch Mulan when it hits Disney+ on September 4? Absolutely. Why? Because I want to support Mulan and see more films like it. But I still don’t like the precedent, and as much as my family loves the MCU, I’m certainly not going to pay 30 bucks for Black Widow. So don’t even get that idea, Disney.

However, if you’re not planning to pay for Mulan – or even if you are but are itching for more – here’s a roundup of some books that’ll get you your Mulan fix.

Mulan: Live Action Novelization

Written by Elizabeth Rudnick (based on the film’s screenplay), this is the best place to start for those who want to know what the film is about… and how it differs from the 1998 animated film. The book is written with a middle grade  audience in mind, so don’t go into this one expecting a deep, intricate novel that explores new aspects of the characters. It’s essentially a straightforward adaptation of the film, and it also includes some gorgeous photos from the film inside.

One notable difference? Mulan’s horse was named Khan in the animated film; in the live-action version, it’s Black Wind. Also? No Mushu (thank goodness).

A Place for Mulan

Written by Marie Chow and with art by Jasper Shaw, this children’s picture book tells a heartwarming story about young Mulan, who feels like she doesn’t belong. She tries her hardest to listen to her parents and be “like everyone else,” but she keeps getting distracted and forging her own path. The book is a simple but poignant reminder for kids (and adults) that we all have unique strengths and abilities… and we all have our own gifts.

Shaw’s art is incredible and makes each page one to linger over. Though the book is slim, you’ll find yourself spending time with each page, falling into (and in love with) Shaw’s illustrations.

Reflection: A Twisted Tale

Elizabeth Lim’s Reflection is part of Disney’s A Twisted Tale series of novels, which are a bit like Marvel’s old “What If?” comic books. They take a familiar story and… twist it by asking, “What if this central premise of the story you know so well was actually radically different?” In this case, the question is: What if Mulan had to travel to the underworld? Intrigued? You know you are.

What sets this book apart from the rest of this list is that it’s connected to the 1998 animated film – not the new live-action version. Lim’s book takes place in the middle of the original film – during the snowy, mountaintop battle against Shan Yu’s army. During that battle, Captain Shang is mortally wounded, time stops, and Mulan voluntarily travels to the underworld to save his soul and bring him back to life. Though much of the book feels familiar (for fans of the animated film), the story is completely original and features several new characters in the form of gods and guardian spirits. It’s a lot of fun and a great “what if?” extension of the original Mulan.

Mulan: Before the Sword

Newbery and Caldecott Honoree Grace Lin puts her own spin on the legend of Mulan with a “prequel” of sorts that tells a story about a young Mulan. When her sister is bitten by a poisonous spider, Mulan does everything she can to help, including seeking out a renowned healer. On a quest with the Jade Rabbit of legend, Mulan visits extraordinary places, meets Immortals, and faces incredible obstacles while searching for an antidote.

It’s a fantastic YA book we highly recommend, which shouldn’t be a surprise given that Grace Lin wrote it. Check out our interview with Lin here.