The Magic Kingdom Storybook

• written and illustrated by Jason Grandt
• published by Disney Press

When I first heard about this book, I knew we had to have it. Written and illustrated by Walt Disney Imagineer Jason Grandt, who had a hand in the design of the stunning Princess Fairytale Hall at the Magic Kingdom, this book is absolutely stunning.

It’s separated into five chapters, which are really standalone stories. Each story focuses on one of the original lands of the Magic Kingdom: Main Street, USA; Adventureland; Fantasyland; Frontierland; and Tomorrowland. Familiar characters abound as Donald, the Mad Hatter, the March Hare, Brer Rabbit, Brer Fox, Pluto, and Chip & Dale (among others) all make appearances.

Simply put, the art is gorgeous. As a picture book, it can’t be beat. There were (many) pages that could’ve been straight from the hand of Mary Blair. Grandt is a master illustrator and has a deep love for these characters and locations. The concept of the book is also neat in that he more or less centers each story in one of the Magic Kingdom’s lands. It was especially nice to see Space Mountain play a role in the Tomorrowland chapter.

Unfortunately, most of the stories use the land as a mere jumping off point. We would’ve liked to see stronger connections to the park, since the title is The Magic Kingdom Storybook. For example, the Frontierland chapter is really just an Uncle Remus story with little connection to the land (aside from the fact that Splash Mountain is located in Frontierland). It also astounds me how official Disney-sanctioned products (the book is published by Disney Press) continue to use those characters while at the same time keeping Song of the South locked firmly away in the vault.

As a storybook, though, the book leaves a little to be desired. Except for the Frontierland chapter, the others seem too short and rushed. There isn’t much of a “story” to any of them. Also, since I work in publishing, I tend to notice (and be bothered by) little things. The typesetting here bothered me. Much of the text is set in a quirky, whimsical font, which is fine, but far too many words are italicized for no reason. Italics are for stress, and most of these words aren’t meant to be stressed.

But these are minor complaints, all in all. As a book for little ones to flip though, marvel at, and spend some time with, this really is a winner. And if you’re a Disney nerd, it rightfully deserves a place on your shelf.

Unfortunately, the book is only available (for now) at select stores on Disney property. However, you can buy it (plus shipping) if you contact Disney Merchandise Guest Services directly (877-560-6477; merchandise.guest.services@disneyparks.com). It retails for $19.99.