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Making Mary Poppins: The Sherman Brothers, Walt Disney, and the Creation of a Classic Film
The surprising story behind Walt Disney’s most successful live-action film.
When Bob and Dick Sherman—two relatively unknown songwriters—first walked onto the Walt Disney Studios lot to pitch a song for Annette Funicello, they had no idea that they’d end up meeting Walt himself, or that a few months later they’d be developing the songs and story line for the studio’s biggest live-action movie ever. In this captivating book, Todd James Pierce details the process from conception through production, including the challenges that the boys—and Disney—faced in dealing with author P. L. Travers and persuading her that their vision for the film would resonate with audiences.
While the Shermans and their songs are at the heart of the book, there are also lively anecdotes about the casting of the movie, the innovative special effects, and the relationship between “Mary Poppins” and the larger Disney world. Making Mary Poppins tells the fascinating story behind an iconic film.
When Bob and Dick Sherman—two relatively unknown songwriters—first walked onto the Walt Disney Studios lot to pitch a song for Annette Funicello, they had no idea that they’d end up meeting Walt himself, or that a few months later they’d be developing the songs and story line for the studio’s biggest live-action movie ever. In this captivating book, Todd James Pierce details the process from conception through production, including the challenges that the boys—and Disney—faced in dealing with author P. L. Travers and persuading her that their vision for the film would resonate with audiences.
While the Shermans and their songs are at the heart of the book, there are also lively anecdotes about the casting of the movie, the innovative special effects, and the relationship between “Mary Poppins” and the larger Disney world. Making Mary Poppins tells the fascinating story behind an iconic film.
256 pages, Hardcover
Published November 11, 2025
17 people are currently reading
3996 people want to read
About the author
Todd James Pierce
20 books27 followersThe author of the novel, The Australia Stories and the story collection, Newsworld, which won the Drue Heinz Literature Prize and was a finalist for the John Gardner Book Award and the Paterson Prize. His work has been published in Fiction, The Georgia Review, Harvard Review, The Gettysburg Review, Indiana Review, The Iowa Review, The Missouri Review, North American Review, Shenandoah, The Sun, Virginia Quarterly Review, and Willow Springs. He lives in a little town called Orcutt (just north of Santa Barbara, California) and co-directs the Creative Writing program at Cal Poly University. Aside from his work in creative writing, over the past decade, he has interviewed over 100 men and women who worked in animation and outdoor amusements during the 1930s, 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
August 27, 2025
I received a free copy of, Making Mary Poppins, by Todd James Pierce, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I have always loved Mary Poppins, there is something special about this movie. Bob and Dick Sherman are musical geniuses, the songs they wrote are so catchy. I really enjoyed reading this book, and learning about the making of Mary Poppins.
August 21, 2025
Thanks so much to NetGalley for the free Kindle book. My review is voluntarily given, and my opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed reading about this and made me realize just how long it was since I watched the movie. I'm definitely going to rewatch the movie.
Really enjoyed learning all sorts new information. Things like a breakdown on how they came up with the word 'Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious'.
The only issue (thought about dropping it down to 4 star because of this) with the book is there isn't a picture in the book. Not even a single still from the movie. I'm not even saying there weren't even new pictures or anything. There wasn't a single picture in the book, which I find crazy, when it's a book about a movie. Frankly, I am of the belief that every book would benefit from pictures or illustrations, but that every non-fiction book should have at least some.
Beyond my whole rant about pictures, I would recommend the book to any fan of the movie.
I really enjoyed reading about this and made me realize just how long it was since I watched the movie. I'm definitely going to rewatch the movie.
Really enjoyed learning all sorts new information. Things like a breakdown on how they came up with the word 'Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious'.
The only issue (thought about dropping it down to 4 star because of this) with the book is there isn't a picture in the book. Not even a single still from the movie. I'm not even saying there weren't even new pictures or anything. There wasn't a single picture in the book, which I find crazy, when it's a book about a movie. Frankly, I am of the belief that every book would benefit from pictures or illustrations, but that every non-fiction book should have at least some.
Beyond my whole rant about pictures, I would recommend the book to any fan of the movie.
November 7, 2025
Mary Poppins has been having something of a resurgence in recent years, with Saving Mr. Banks, Mary Poppins Returns, and a recent Disney+ documentary shining new light on the making of this beloved film. Through those, I learned how challenging it was for Walt Disney to secure the rights to P.L. Travers’s books, and also how difficult Travers made the adaptation process. Her creative disagreements with Disney even extended to the suggestion that improvements were necessary after the film had premiered.
In Making Mary Poppins, Todd James Pierce explores the full ecosystem that made Mary Poppins possible. He dives into the film’s revolutionary blend of live action and animation, illuminating how it redefined what was possible in family filmmaking and helped shape the future of Disney’s live-action division.
Central to the narrative are the Sherman brothers, whose work went far beyond composing the hit music, but were instrumental in mapping out the entire story. Walt Disney’s deep creative involvement is also captured. Far from a distant executive, Disney emerges here as a hands-on storyteller whose collaboration with the Shermans and filmmakers is evident.
Whether you’re a Mary Poppins devotee, Disney fan, or simply fascinated by the golden age of Hollywood, Making Mary Poppins offers a captivating behind-the-scenes look at how this magical film came to life.
In Making Mary Poppins, Todd James Pierce explores the full ecosystem that made Mary Poppins possible. He dives into the film’s revolutionary blend of live action and animation, illuminating how it redefined what was possible in family filmmaking and helped shape the future of Disney’s live-action division.
Central to the narrative are the Sherman brothers, whose work went far beyond composing the hit music, but were instrumental in mapping out the entire story. Walt Disney’s deep creative involvement is also captured. Far from a distant executive, Disney emerges here as a hands-on storyteller whose collaboration with the Shermans and filmmakers is evident.
Whether you’re a Mary Poppins devotee, Disney fan, or simply fascinated by the golden age of Hollywood, Making Mary Poppins offers a captivating behind-the-scenes look at how this magical film came to life.
November 8, 2025
This was a great look into the development of the Mary Poppins movie through the lens of the Sherman Brothers. It reads as a Sherman Brothers memoir. I really enjoyed reading this and I think any Disney, Theater, and/or Mary Poppins fan will love this. While well researched, my only hesitation is that the author did not have any first hand interviews for this book. Still worth a read though and I will be purchasing a copy for my personal library.
Thank you to NetGalley and W.W. Norton & Company for the ARC.
Thank you to NetGalley and W.W. Norton & Company for the ARC.
August 23, 2025
I've always had a soft spot for "Mary Poppins" because the film was the first movie I saw in a theater. I loved the movie "Saving Mr. Banks," and I enjoyed this book in the same way...learning about the behind-the-scenes goings-on was fascinating! While "Saving Mr. Banks" focused more on P.L. Travers, this book gives insight into the songwriters, as well as the nitty gritty of actually making the film. I was entranced all the way through. Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the ARC.
November 7, 2025
I am grateful to NetGalley for providing an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This book traces the unlikely path that brought little-known songwriters Robert and Richard Sherman to Walt Disney’s attention, and how their personal history, musical genius and emotional lives shaped ‘Mary Poppins’ unforgettable songs and surprising storyline. The Sherman brothers’ story is rich with behind-the-scenes intrigue, creative breakthroughs and quiet triumphs. A story of art, ambition, and resilience.
Paraphrased from the publishers description of this book.
Sometimes it is nice to read a book purely for fun. No other reason. Not for knowledge or wisdom. Not to broaden your worldview or explore issues or events from other viewpoints. But just for pure enjoyment. ‘Making Mary Poppins’ is one of those books.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Many people of a certain age will have experienced and enjoyed, perhaps multiple times, the classic musical ‘Mary Poppins’; on stage, film, vinyl record or some other format. For over half a century it would seem to be one of the most popular films to be shown on TV at Christmas. Enjoyed in an atmosphere of warmth, with family and friends. Generations of people since the release in the mid 1960s will know the film well; the story, the actors and of course the songs. And many people will, perhaps embracing the nostalgia of past times, joyfully sing along with the lyrics.
Although musical stage shows are still popular today and even occasional musical films I do wonder in decades from now which of them will still be enjoyed as much as ‘Mary Poppins’ is today. Throughout the world the way people enjoy entertainment has rapidly changed over the years. Far less the family-friendly experiences that once created warm, deep long-lasting memories. Such is the world in which we live.
The first part of the book is about the song-writing team of Richard and Robert Sherman. It is the classic story of US migration. A European family moves to the United States seeking a better life. People with an optimistic worldview as a new life is made, families grow and careers develop. For Richard and Robert Sherman, born into a musical, theatrical family, and growing up in New York, their progression into the entertainment world seems inevitable. The author recounts the background and life-experiences of the family and brothers, who ultimately forming a successful song-writing team. Experiences of World War II and other events play a role as these young men grow up and begin adult life. Marriages and divorce amidst turbulent times in the US with post-war developments driving new forms of entertainment as well as social change.
The brothers naturally form a team and begin evolving their song-writing skills at a time when TV and Films are forward looking, embracing youth culture and of course new forms of popular music. The author provides interesting insights into early days of mass popular entertainment. For some readers there will be lots of familiar references. Singers, song writers, TV shows, films, stage shows and musicians. As well as recounting the developing song-writing skills of the Sherman brothers, the author also provides a wider view of the music business during these years. As well as some fascinating anecdotes. An early Sherman brothers song was a huge success when recorded years later by one of the Beatles ! The author takes us behind the scenes , providing a feel for this new industry, aligning a song with a singer, marketing, messaging and promotion. Ultimately the brothers gravitate towards California and the growing music world associated with the expanding TV and film industry in the 1960s.
Around this time Walt Disney is looking for song-writers to assist with his many projects; TV, film and of course the Disneyland theme park in Los Angeles. The Sherman brothers find success in this world and are invited to join the team working on a film based upon a series of books about an English governess named Mary Poppins. For anyone who has seen the excellent film, ‘Saving Mr Bank’s, this section of the book will be particularly interesting.
The dynamics between Walt Disney and the author of the Mary Poppins books, PL Travers are fascinating and have a long, uneasy history. Travers reluctantly but eventually provides Disney with the rights to make a film; with her input and certain control assumed. We learn about the struggle between conflicting visions, to adjust and compromise between the Disney vision of the books, as a musical, and the author ownership of her beloved characters and narrative. Travers plays a significant role in this part of the book. And the Sherman brother’s songs do not escape Travers close scrutiny. Songs inspired by her characters, her stories and also additional scenes not in her books but created by the Disney teams.
The author (of Making Part Poppins) describes the Disney modifications as:
“…a tighter interaction between song and story is the secret to achieving the real magic in a musical motion picture.”
And provide a quote from Robert Sherman:
"The idea was not to stop the story but to progress the story."
The Sherman brothers clearly play a large role, not only with their song-writing but also guiding and influencing the characters, the storylines and indeed how some scenes will be played out on film. It is quite revealing just how much influence beyond the music the Brothers provide. Details from the books are changed in ways large and small. The characters are reimagined by Disney and his teams, themes developed, storylines adjusted or embellished. I had no idea that the books were set during the Great Depression of the 1930s. The Disney film version is placed some decades earlier in Edwardian Times. No wonder author PL Travers took quite some umbrage at the distortions and directions of the Disney adaption ! As the author of ‘Making Mary Poppins’ reflects:
“…she believed that Disney had replaced elements of truth and insight, central to her books, with a saccharine sentimentality”
She is probably is somewhat correct; but nevertheless, she accepted the views of the Sherman Brothers, and others including Walt Disney himself. Views that were not completely aligned with her books. She agreed with the Edwardian setting for the film, thus allowing a more whimsical tone inspired by the English Music Hall songs of the era.
Ultimately the result was a massively successful film, with the Sherman brothers playing a significant role, not only in creating wonderful music and lyrics, but also, along with others, guiding the characters, plots and overall narrative in certain directions. Incidentally the success allowed Walt Disney to purchase land in Florida for a project which would once again grow his company in the years to come.
The book covers the production of the film, with many details of interest. Casting, animation, set design and so on. Other books have been written about the film, but this is the first I have read, so I enjoyed learning about all the details. The development and integration of actors with animation for example. Also nicely recalled is the process of moving the Sherman brothers songs from just piano and voice to full orchestral arrangements. The techniques, innovations and of course the addition of multiple musicians. Richard Sherman is quoted as saying:
“…you hear seventy people playing something that you just dreamed about in your head…”
The reader of this book will sense that those involved in the film know they are making something special, something lasting and something of which they can be proud.
In some ways, this is the story of a journey from a book to a film, and all the challenges along the way. The Sherman Brothers play an outsized role in not only creating the music but also well beyond that. Insights are provided into the world of Disney in the 1960s. TV, films and the evolution of the Disneyland theme park. The Sherman brothers, as employees of Disney, also play a role in many of these projects, both before and even more after ‘Mary Poppins’ where their song-writing contributions add to the success of numerous films. The book portrays a world of film making quite different to that of today. Disney in the 1960s is portrayed as a workplace with a family atmosphere, making family entertainment, exhibiting the wholesome values of the times and Walt Disney himself.
In closing, people of a ‘certain-age,’ those who grew up with Mary Poppins, or came to enjoy the movie and songs, often around Christmas, will find much to enjoy in this book. And they will develop a greater appreciation of the songs, how they came about and how two brothers, in collaboration with many others, produced such a memorable film.
I wish the authors and publishers great success with this book. It will bring enjoyment to many who read it and will enhance their pleasure should they happen to sit in front of a TV at Christmas with family and friends, watching an old Disney movie made over fifty years ago.
This book traces the unlikely path that brought little-known songwriters Robert and Richard Sherman to Walt Disney’s attention, and how their personal history, musical genius and emotional lives shaped ‘Mary Poppins’ unforgettable songs and surprising storyline. The Sherman brothers’ story is rich with behind-the-scenes intrigue, creative breakthroughs and quiet triumphs. A story of art, ambition, and resilience.
Paraphrased from the publishers description of this book.
Sometimes it is nice to read a book purely for fun. No other reason. Not for knowledge or wisdom. Not to broaden your worldview or explore issues or events from other viewpoints. But just for pure enjoyment. ‘Making Mary Poppins’ is one of those books.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Many people of a certain age will have experienced and enjoyed, perhaps multiple times, the classic musical ‘Mary Poppins’; on stage, film, vinyl record or some other format. For over half a century it would seem to be one of the most popular films to be shown on TV at Christmas. Enjoyed in an atmosphere of warmth, with family and friends. Generations of people since the release in the mid 1960s will know the film well; the story, the actors and of course the songs. And many people will, perhaps embracing the nostalgia of past times, joyfully sing along with the lyrics.
Although musical stage shows are still popular today and even occasional musical films I do wonder in decades from now which of them will still be enjoyed as much as ‘Mary Poppins’ is today. Throughout the world the way people enjoy entertainment has rapidly changed over the years. Far less the family-friendly experiences that once created warm, deep long-lasting memories. Such is the world in which we live.
The first part of the book is about the song-writing team of Richard and Robert Sherman. It is the classic story of US migration. A European family moves to the United States seeking a better life. People with an optimistic worldview as a new life is made, families grow and careers develop. For Richard and Robert Sherman, born into a musical, theatrical family, and growing up in New York, their progression into the entertainment world seems inevitable. The author recounts the background and life-experiences of the family and brothers, who ultimately forming a successful song-writing team. Experiences of World War II and other events play a role as these young men grow up and begin adult life. Marriages and divorce amidst turbulent times in the US with post-war developments driving new forms of entertainment as well as social change.
The brothers naturally form a team and begin evolving their song-writing skills at a time when TV and Films are forward looking, embracing youth culture and of course new forms of popular music. The author provides interesting insights into early days of mass popular entertainment. For some readers there will be lots of familiar references. Singers, song writers, TV shows, films, stage shows and musicians. As well as recounting the developing song-writing skills of the Sherman brothers, the author also provides a wider view of the music business during these years. As well as some fascinating anecdotes. An early Sherman brothers song was a huge success when recorded years later by one of the Beatles ! The author takes us behind the scenes , providing a feel for this new industry, aligning a song with a singer, marketing, messaging and promotion. Ultimately the brothers gravitate towards California and the growing music world associated with the expanding TV and film industry in the 1960s.
Around this time Walt Disney is looking for song-writers to assist with his many projects; TV, film and of course the Disneyland theme park in Los Angeles. The Sherman brothers find success in this world and are invited to join the team working on a film based upon a series of books about an English governess named Mary Poppins. For anyone who has seen the excellent film, ‘Saving Mr Bank’s, this section of the book will be particularly interesting.
The dynamics between Walt Disney and the author of the Mary Poppins books, PL Travers are fascinating and have a long, uneasy history. Travers reluctantly but eventually provides Disney with the rights to make a film; with her input and certain control assumed. We learn about the struggle between conflicting visions, to adjust and compromise between the Disney vision of the books, as a musical, and the author ownership of her beloved characters and narrative. Travers plays a significant role in this part of the book. And the Sherman brother’s songs do not escape Travers close scrutiny. Songs inspired by her characters, her stories and also additional scenes not in her books but created by the Disney teams.
The author (of Making Part Poppins) describes the Disney modifications as:
“…a tighter interaction between song and story is the secret to achieving the real magic in a musical motion picture.”
And provide a quote from Robert Sherman:
"The idea was not to stop the story but to progress the story."
The Sherman brothers clearly play a large role, not only with their song-writing but also guiding and influencing the characters, the storylines and indeed how some scenes will be played out on film. It is quite revealing just how much influence beyond the music the Brothers provide. Details from the books are changed in ways large and small. The characters are reimagined by Disney and his teams, themes developed, storylines adjusted or embellished. I had no idea that the books were set during the Great Depression of the 1930s. The Disney film version is placed some decades earlier in Edwardian Times. No wonder author PL Travers took quite some umbrage at the distortions and directions of the Disney adaption ! As the author of ‘Making Mary Poppins’ reflects:
“…she believed that Disney had replaced elements of truth and insight, central to her books, with a saccharine sentimentality”
She is probably is somewhat correct; but nevertheless, she accepted the views of the Sherman Brothers, and others including Walt Disney himself. Views that were not completely aligned with her books. She agreed with the Edwardian setting for the film, thus allowing a more whimsical tone inspired by the English Music Hall songs of the era.
Ultimately the result was a massively successful film, with the Sherman brothers playing a significant role, not only in creating wonderful music and lyrics, but also, along with others, guiding the characters, plots and overall narrative in certain directions. Incidentally the success allowed Walt Disney to purchase land in Florida for a project which would once again grow his company in the years to come.
The book covers the production of the film, with many details of interest. Casting, animation, set design and so on. Other books have been written about the film, but this is the first I have read, so I enjoyed learning about all the details. The development and integration of actors with animation for example. Also nicely recalled is the process of moving the Sherman brothers songs from just piano and voice to full orchestral arrangements. The techniques, innovations and of course the addition of multiple musicians. Richard Sherman is quoted as saying:
“…you hear seventy people playing something that you just dreamed about in your head…”
The reader of this book will sense that those involved in the film know they are making something special, something lasting and something of which they can be proud.
In some ways, this is the story of a journey from a book to a film, and all the challenges along the way. The Sherman Brothers play an outsized role in not only creating the music but also well beyond that. Insights are provided into the world of Disney in the 1960s. TV, films and the evolution of the Disneyland theme park. The Sherman brothers, as employees of Disney, also play a role in many of these projects, both before and even more after ‘Mary Poppins’ where their song-writing contributions add to the success of numerous films. The book portrays a world of film making quite different to that of today. Disney in the 1960s is portrayed as a workplace with a family atmosphere, making family entertainment, exhibiting the wholesome values of the times and Walt Disney himself.
In closing, people of a ‘certain-age,’ those who grew up with Mary Poppins, or came to enjoy the movie and songs, often around Christmas, will find much to enjoy in this book. And they will develop a greater appreciation of the songs, how they came about and how two brothers, in collaboration with many others, produced such a memorable film.
I wish the authors and publishers great success with this book. It will bring enjoyment to many who read it and will enhance their pleasure should they happen to sit in front of a TV at Christmas with family and friends, watching an old Disney movie made over fifty years ago.
November 10, 2025
As someone who has loved past books by Todd James Pierce and listens to his Disney History Institute podcast weekly, I get pretty excited about any new books or articles he publishes. Having heard some of the material from his latest book in a multi-episode podcast, I was a little worried that his new book would not seem fresh to me. I am happy to report that this anxiety was needless.
Making Mary Poppins: The Sherman Brothers, Walt Disney, and the Creation of the Classic Film by Todd James Pierce provides an engaging and well-researched history of the film. The film’s story is not seen through the life of Walt Disney or Pamela Travers, but instead through the lives of his boys, Richard and Robert Sherman. Pierce begins and ends his story with the brothers, their father Al’s career as a professional songwriter, and the experiences that shaped two very different personalities. It was Al who saw the potential of his two adult sons and songwriting. One son, Robert (or Bob), was a World War II veteran who wanted to write novels. His other son, Richard (or Dick), was a young father and divorcee who dreamed of writing musical theater. With his introvert son Bob and his extrovert son Dick struggling to establish careers, Al challenged them to write a song together that an artist would be willing to purchase. After some early false starts, in 1958 their song “Tall Paul”, recorded by Annette Funicello, would become a hit!
Their continued collaboration with Funicello would garner the attention of Walt Disney Studios. The two met with Walt Disney to discuss potential work on the television show Zorro. But Disney’s focus was on a song that could be used in a future movie that would become The Parent Trap. This led to another meeting, and another assignment, and another meeting…until eventually the Brothers were hired full-time as studio songwriters, contributing to numerous projects across the studio. One of those projects was to provide potential songs for a movie based on Travers’ Mary Poppins, a book lacking a sequential plot fit for a movie. The two brothers would spend the next few years working and reworking songs, and help develop the plot of the film as it entered production. Pierce deviates from the brothers with the film in production as he turns his focus to other artists who worked on all aspects of the film. The book finishes with the successful premiere of the film, a night where young fans looking for stars labeled the two men as nobodies, invisible despite the enormous contributions they made in shepherding the story through music.
I had experienced some of this material in audio form on the Disney History Institute podcast. I enjoyed the storytelling in that format. But I worried that in book form it would feel like material that I had all heard before. However, that was not the case. Even without Pierce narrating the tale, I was still able to pull myself into this story. The Sherman Brothers and their often differing personalities are two characters that you want to cheer on as a reader, so while some of the story has been told before to me, on the page, I was still pulled in. Making Mary Poppins is one of those books that is a joy to read and engage with. It is both well-written and researched. The volume is also accessible for those who are tone deaf, like me! Often, I felt like I was reading the book that inspired Saving Mr. Banks, giving the audience the real story… although the movie was released years ago.
One of the aspects of the book that really stood out to me was the struggle. As a fan who largely knows of the Sherman Brothers well after they reached Disney Legend status, it is hard to imagine that they were not instant successes. In fact, their father may have seen them as grown adults without purpose. He was the parent of two men who were living together, only out of familial connections, and hitting rough patches in their lives. Even after he put them on a path to future success, they still were not instant successes despite Al’s career. The two had false starts on major recordings, had a somewhat unsuccessful publishing business, and had to work other jobs, including Bob as a flower arrangement instructor. This is a story not of overnight successes, but one could argue the American story of hard work and effort. It is a story that makes them even more relatable.
Making Mary Poppins: The Sherman Brothers, Walt Disney, and the Creation of the Classic Film by Todd James Pierce is easily one of my five favorite new Between Books of 2025. Pierce has again written an accessible and engaging story, built around the two figures who had in my opinion the most creative impact on Mary Poppins with little of the credit. Even those who have heard Pierce’s earlier audio-only version of some of this material will still find it feels fresh! It is a volume that only helps you feel even more admiration for Robert and Richard Sherman.
Review Copy Provided for Review
Making Mary Poppins: The Sherman Brothers, Walt Disney, and the Creation of the Classic Film by Todd James Pierce provides an engaging and well-researched history of the film. The film’s story is not seen through the life of Walt Disney or Pamela Travers, but instead through the lives of his boys, Richard and Robert Sherman. Pierce begins and ends his story with the brothers, their father Al’s career as a professional songwriter, and the experiences that shaped two very different personalities. It was Al who saw the potential of his two adult sons and songwriting. One son, Robert (or Bob), was a World War II veteran who wanted to write novels. His other son, Richard (or Dick), was a young father and divorcee who dreamed of writing musical theater. With his introvert son Bob and his extrovert son Dick struggling to establish careers, Al challenged them to write a song together that an artist would be willing to purchase. After some early false starts, in 1958 their song “Tall Paul”, recorded by Annette Funicello, would become a hit!
Their continued collaboration with Funicello would garner the attention of Walt Disney Studios. The two met with Walt Disney to discuss potential work on the television show Zorro. But Disney’s focus was on a song that could be used in a future movie that would become The Parent Trap. This led to another meeting, and another assignment, and another meeting…until eventually the Brothers were hired full-time as studio songwriters, contributing to numerous projects across the studio. One of those projects was to provide potential songs for a movie based on Travers’ Mary Poppins, a book lacking a sequential plot fit for a movie. The two brothers would spend the next few years working and reworking songs, and help develop the plot of the film as it entered production. Pierce deviates from the brothers with the film in production as he turns his focus to other artists who worked on all aspects of the film. The book finishes with the successful premiere of the film, a night where young fans looking for stars labeled the two men as nobodies, invisible despite the enormous contributions they made in shepherding the story through music.
I had experienced some of this material in audio form on the Disney History Institute podcast. I enjoyed the storytelling in that format. But I worried that in book form it would feel like material that I had all heard before. However, that was not the case. Even without Pierce narrating the tale, I was still able to pull myself into this story. The Sherman Brothers and their often differing personalities are two characters that you want to cheer on as a reader, so while some of the story has been told before to me, on the page, I was still pulled in. Making Mary Poppins is one of those books that is a joy to read and engage with. It is both well-written and researched. The volume is also accessible for those who are tone deaf, like me! Often, I felt like I was reading the book that inspired Saving Mr. Banks, giving the audience the real story… although the movie was released years ago.
One of the aspects of the book that really stood out to me was the struggle. As a fan who largely knows of the Sherman Brothers well after they reached Disney Legend status, it is hard to imagine that they were not instant successes. In fact, their father may have seen them as grown adults without purpose. He was the parent of two men who were living together, only out of familial connections, and hitting rough patches in their lives. Even after he put them on a path to future success, they still were not instant successes despite Al’s career. The two had false starts on major recordings, had a somewhat unsuccessful publishing business, and had to work other jobs, including Bob as a flower arrangement instructor. This is a story not of overnight successes, but one could argue the American story of hard work and effort. It is a story that makes them even more relatable.
Making Mary Poppins: The Sherman Brothers, Walt Disney, and the Creation of the Classic Film by Todd James Pierce is easily one of my five favorite new Between Books of 2025. Pierce has again written an accessible and engaging story, built around the two figures who had in my opinion the most creative impact on Mary Poppins with little of the credit. Even those who have heard Pierce’s earlier audio-only version of some of this material will still find it feels fresh! It is a volume that only helps you feel even more admiration for Robert and Richard Sherman.
Review Copy Provided for Review
November 14, 2025
Before I begin, I’d like to thank W.W. Norton and NetGalley for providing me with an advance copy of this book.
Not too long ago, a friend asked me to name my top 10 favorite Disney movies. I have to admit I struggled to name 10 because I have so many to choose from, but I knew instantly what my favorite Disney movie was - “Mary Poppins”. It’s not quite “practically perfect in every way”, but technically and musically, and with its stellar cast, it’s pretty amazing. I’ve heard and read a lot of stories about the film, but I’ve never seen a book about how the film was made - until now.
Todd James Pierce, who wrote an excellent book about the creation and early years of Disneyland a couple of years ago, has written a great book about how the movie came to be called “Making Mary Poppins”. The book starts out by telling readers about the songwriters who provided the musical heart of the film and many other Disney projects, Richard and Robert Sherman. The sons of a self-taught musician and successful pop tunesmith, they initially had little intention of following in their father’s footsteps, but their desires to walk with giants coupled with a challenge and a little help from their father brought them modest success and eventually led them to become Walt’s in-house songwriters; their talent for music of various styles and their ability to create the right song to advance a TV show’s or movie’s plot convinced Walt to give them a shot at creating music for his most ambitious movies yet.
After our introduction to the Sherman Brothers, Todd guides us along the long road that led to the hit movie. Walt had pursued the right to P.L. Travers’ book series for years without much success, since Mrs. Travers was as protective of her characters as Walt was of his. Eventually, a decline in popularity of her books convinced Travers to give Walt a chance - but that didn’t mean she didn’t still hold strong beliefs as to how Mary Poppins should be portrayed on screen, or temper her opinions about portraying them using animation or music and dancing.
With all the success “Mary Poppins” achieved, it’s easy to be unaware of how many chances the Disney Studios took in making this film. Julie Andrews was a Broadway star, but this was her first film; Dick Van Dyke was a star on TV, but had only a couple of modest film roles before “Mary Poppins”. Walt’s production team had never made a film with such a big budget, or made a live-action film with a big orchestral score before. Everyone was keeping their fingers crossed that “Mary Poppins” would be successful, but nobody was expecting it to be the financial, critical, and musical hit that it became. From Walt being inspired to develop a film by his wife reading from the Travers book to his daughters to the Hollywood premiere of the film, Todd takes us on a cinematic adventure.
“Making Mary Poppins” is an entertaining look at one of the most significant films in cinematic history. It’s a relatively quick read but an interesting one; the only fault I have with the book is that I think it should have explored the aftermath of its success, and how that success affected Walt Disney Productions and the key people involved in making the film, as well as Hollywood in general (this film, “The Sound of Music”, and “My Fair Lady” encouraged the greenlighting of a lot of big-budget musicals, with much less success). I also find myself wishing that Todd had developed a separate, dedicated biography of the Shermans - I would have liked to read more of their story. But that just means that Todd or someone else will have to write one! To accompany this book, I’d recommend listening to an album called “The Legacy Collection: Mary Poppins”, so you can appreciate the score of the film as well as the film’s songs - including some songs that didn’t make it into the film. You may also want to consider listening to the audioboook - Todd has a great voice in addition to his great writing style. Highly recommended!
Not too long ago, a friend asked me to name my top 10 favorite Disney movies. I have to admit I struggled to name 10 because I have so many to choose from, but I knew instantly what my favorite Disney movie was - “Mary Poppins”. It’s not quite “practically perfect in every way”, but technically and musically, and with its stellar cast, it’s pretty amazing. I’ve heard and read a lot of stories about the film, but I’ve never seen a book about how the film was made - until now.
Todd James Pierce, who wrote an excellent book about the creation and early years of Disneyland a couple of years ago, has written a great book about how the movie came to be called “Making Mary Poppins”. The book starts out by telling readers about the songwriters who provided the musical heart of the film and many other Disney projects, Richard and Robert Sherman. The sons of a self-taught musician and successful pop tunesmith, they initially had little intention of following in their father’s footsteps, but their desires to walk with giants coupled with a challenge and a little help from their father brought them modest success and eventually led them to become Walt’s in-house songwriters; their talent for music of various styles and their ability to create the right song to advance a TV show’s or movie’s plot convinced Walt to give them a shot at creating music for his most ambitious movies yet.
After our introduction to the Sherman Brothers, Todd guides us along the long road that led to the hit movie. Walt had pursued the right to P.L. Travers’ book series for years without much success, since Mrs. Travers was as protective of her characters as Walt was of his. Eventually, a decline in popularity of her books convinced Travers to give Walt a chance - but that didn’t mean she didn’t still hold strong beliefs as to how Mary Poppins should be portrayed on screen, or temper her opinions about portraying them using animation or music and dancing.
With all the success “Mary Poppins” achieved, it’s easy to be unaware of how many chances the Disney Studios took in making this film. Julie Andrews was a Broadway star, but this was her first film; Dick Van Dyke was a star on TV, but had only a couple of modest film roles before “Mary Poppins”. Walt’s production team had never made a film with such a big budget, or made a live-action film with a big orchestral score before. Everyone was keeping their fingers crossed that “Mary Poppins” would be successful, but nobody was expecting it to be the financial, critical, and musical hit that it became. From Walt being inspired to develop a film by his wife reading from the Travers book to his daughters to the Hollywood premiere of the film, Todd takes us on a cinematic adventure.
“Making Mary Poppins” is an entertaining look at one of the most significant films in cinematic history. It’s a relatively quick read but an interesting one; the only fault I have with the book is that I think it should have explored the aftermath of its success, and how that success affected Walt Disney Productions and the key people involved in making the film, as well as Hollywood in general (this film, “The Sound of Music”, and “My Fair Lady” encouraged the greenlighting of a lot of big-budget musicals, with much less success). I also find myself wishing that Todd had developed a separate, dedicated biography of the Shermans - I would have liked to read more of their story. But that just means that Todd or someone else will have to write one! To accompany this book, I’d recommend listening to an album called “The Legacy Collection: Mary Poppins”, so you can appreciate the score of the film as well as the film’s songs - including some songs that didn’t make it into the film. You may also want to consider listening to the audioboook - Todd has a great voice in addition to his great writing style. Highly recommended!
September 11, 2025
What are the odds that just after finishing the section talking about Julie Andrews being tapped for the role in Sound of Music after doing Mary Poppins that I'd encounter a grocery worker stocking shelves merrily whistling an Andrews tune? True story. Made me smile. This book also brought me some smiles. It was interesting to learn not only about the Sherman Brothers' work on Poppins but get to know their back story, such as Bob being in the first wave of army troops to hit Omaha Beach during WWII, and why it helped prepare them for the task. Walt Disney's courtesy toward their family was nice to hear about, too.
In other words, while the focus is on the drive to produce the music for Disney's Mary Poppins, we learn not only quite a bit about Disney and the Sherman's as humans, but also many of the various others who contributed. Knowing that, say, Dick Van Dyke is approaching 100 years old as I type, it was fascinating to be reminded that despite his successful television series, this was his first truly important movie role as Bert the chimney sweep. While Andrews was fresh off the disappointment of not being given the chance to take a successful Broadway role to the big screen, she was also pregnant when she signed to do the picture. You'll also meet the other main cast members, including the Bird Lady, and get a feel for their backgrounds and why Disney selected them. Heck, for all this talent, Van Dyke wasn't a dancer, so you know there was more to that story.
Bottom line, while I was expecting to read a bit more detail of how certain scenes were accomplished, many were explained, including the fear of heights one of the child actors had. The standard answer to those on set asking how something would be done was "Disney magic" which, given our knowledge nowadays of the output from the studio, made all the sense in the world. You'll even learn where the Sherman's life long love of word play lead to "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" as a song. The author of the Poppins book, btw, PL Travers, gets some time and explanation, too, which was interesting having seen Disney's "Saving Mr. Banks" movie dealing with those tricky negotiations. In other words, lots of behind the scenes info shared including Walt's (he disliked being called Mr. Disney) concept of connecting with all ages, not just the children the picture may seemed aimed at. It worked and, yes, still works today. There's also an extensive list of resources used at the end. Thanks #WWNorton&Company for this early peek into the making of a movie so many of us have loved. It brought smiles and warm memories of it, not to mention the Sherman's role in the "It's a Small World" theme song at that Disney experience.
In other words, while the focus is on the drive to produce the music for Disney's Mary Poppins, we learn not only quite a bit about Disney and the Sherman's as humans, but also many of the various others who contributed. Knowing that, say, Dick Van Dyke is approaching 100 years old as I type, it was fascinating to be reminded that despite his successful television series, this was his first truly important movie role as Bert the chimney sweep. While Andrews was fresh off the disappointment of not being given the chance to take a successful Broadway role to the big screen, she was also pregnant when she signed to do the picture. You'll also meet the other main cast members, including the Bird Lady, and get a feel for their backgrounds and why Disney selected them. Heck, for all this talent, Van Dyke wasn't a dancer, so you know there was more to that story.
Bottom line, while I was expecting to read a bit more detail of how certain scenes were accomplished, many were explained, including the fear of heights one of the child actors had. The standard answer to those on set asking how something would be done was "Disney magic" which, given our knowledge nowadays of the output from the studio, made all the sense in the world. You'll even learn where the Sherman's life long love of word play lead to "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" as a song. The author of the Poppins book, btw, PL Travers, gets some time and explanation, too, which was interesting having seen Disney's "Saving Mr. Banks" movie dealing with those tricky negotiations. In other words, lots of behind the scenes info shared including Walt's (he disliked being called Mr. Disney) concept of connecting with all ages, not just the children the picture may seemed aimed at. It worked and, yes, still works today. There's also an extensive list of resources used at the end. Thanks #WWNorton&Company for this early peek into the making of a movie so many of us have loved. It brought smiles and warm memories of it, not to mention the Sherman's role in the "It's a Small World" theme song at that Disney experience.
December 23, 2025
As a Disney fan, I get many peculiar questions – why is Disney your ‘thing’? What’s your favorite Disney theme park? And, what’s your favorite Disney movie? Everyone will have a different answer to these questions, and that’s as it should be. The Disney brand offers different interpretations to different demographic groups.
I have my personal answers. I play parlor games with myself, poking holes in my choices to see if there’s another park of film I should hold up in highest esteem. Regardless, I still come back to Mary Poppins as the Studio’s best feature film.
I first saw this movie with my family 1974, its first theatrical re-release. On the big screen, the singing, dancing and London skylines were all larger than life. A chirping robin bird that Mary holds was jaw dropping. My brothers and I tried to recreate the Step in Time dance sequence. My older brother was enchanted with the penguin waiters from the Jolly Holiday sequence and would hilariously imitate Bert’s dancing antics, with imaginary Antarctic birds underfoot.
I’ve seen Mary Poppins countless times, and at no point in the film do I find my mind wandering. It simple captures and holds my fancy.
As a Disney historian, I’ve written about many of the Disney Legends who were involved in this blockbuster film. On screen, seven actors are all enshrined as Legends – Julie Andrews, Dick Van Dyke, and the four members of the Banks family. Finally, there’s Ed Wynn as Uncle Albert. I’ve written previously about Disney Legends X Atencio, Ub Iwerks, Bill Justice, Robert Stevenson, Richard Sherman, Robert Sherman, and Peter Ellenshaw, who all were affiliated with Mary Poppins. Further, by my understanding, five of the ‘Nine Old Men,’ Walt’s principal character animators, were involved in the Jolly Holiday segment. Learning and writing about their respective careers gave me separate glimpses into the seminal Disney classic. From each of their biographies I’ve written, I’ve collected differing stories of the creation of Mary Poppins. Anecdotally, I believe this film has the largest number of Disney Legends who worked on one single film.
The 2013 Disney film Saving Mr. Banks that recreates the timeline and tension in getting the film rights of Poppins from her creator, P.L. Travers is a fascinating tale, told with some artistic liberties; Walt didn’t accompany Travers to Disneyland, and the character of Ralph, the limousine driver, was fictional, to help drive the film’s narrative. I acquired a copy of the script years before, when it was listed on the coveted Hollywood Black List (2011), a collection of unsigned scripts worthy of filming. Kelly Marcel’s script tells a version of P.L. Travers tangling with Walt Disney over the rights to her character. However, Marcel’s source material was primarily Travers’ journals. She had no access to the Disney Archives to fully flesh out her script. The Walt Disney Company opted for the film rights to Saving Mr. Banks and presented a dramatic version of how Mary Poppins came to be.
However, to get a deeper and richer understanding of the Mary Poppins origin story, I highly recommend the recently released Making Mary Poppins by Todd Pierce. His highly sourced tome offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at what it truly means to “become” Mary Poppins inside the Disney universe. Rather than focusing on the fictional character, Pierce centers on the real people who bring Mary to life each day, creating a thoughtful and surprisingly intimate portrait of Mary Poppins, the film’s central character.
The book shines in its attention to detail, from costume standards to accent work and the emotional discipline required to stay “practically perfect” no matter the circumstances. Pierce’s writing feels personal and respectful, revealing the quiet professionalism behind the magic that guests so often take for granted.
Overall, Making Mary Poppins is a charming and insightful read for Disney fans and theater lovers alike. It celebrates the human artistry that keeps beloved characters feeling real, long after the music stops and the parade ends.
And if you’re wondering what the best Disney theme park is, it’s Disney’s Animal Kingdom. That’s a story for another time.
I have my personal answers. I play parlor games with myself, poking holes in my choices to see if there’s another park of film I should hold up in highest esteem. Regardless, I still come back to Mary Poppins as the Studio’s best feature film.
I first saw this movie with my family 1974, its first theatrical re-release. On the big screen, the singing, dancing and London skylines were all larger than life. A chirping robin bird that Mary holds was jaw dropping. My brothers and I tried to recreate the Step in Time dance sequence. My older brother was enchanted with the penguin waiters from the Jolly Holiday sequence and would hilariously imitate Bert’s dancing antics, with imaginary Antarctic birds underfoot.
I’ve seen Mary Poppins countless times, and at no point in the film do I find my mind wandering. It simple captures and holds my fancy.
As a Disney historian, I’ve written about many of the Disney Legends who were involved in this blockbuster film. On screen, seven actors are all enshrined as Legends – Julie Andrews, Dick Van Dyke, and the four members of the Banks family. Finally, there’s Ed Wynn as Uncle Albert. I’ve written previously about Disney Legends X Atencio, Ub Iwerks, Bill Justice, Robert Stevenson, Richard Sherman, Robert Sherman, and Peter Ellenshaw, who all were affiliated with Mary Poppins. Further, by my understanding, five of the ‘Nine Old Men,’ Walt’s principal character animators, were involved in the Jolly Holiday segment. Learning and writing about their respective careers gave me separate glimpses into the seminal Disney classic. From each of their biographies I’ve written, I’ve collected differing stories of the creation of Mary Poppins. Anecdotally, I believe this film has the largest number of Disney Legends who worked on one single film.
The 2013 Disney film Saving Mr. Banks that recreates the timeline and tension in getting the film rights of Poppins from her creator, P.L. Travers is a fascinating tale, told with some artistic liberties; Walt didn’t accompany Travers to Disneyland, and the character of Ralph, the limousine driver, was fictional, to help drive the film’s narrative. I acquired a copy of the script years before, when it was listed on the coveted Hollywood Black List (2011), a collection of unsigned scripts worthy of filming. Kelly Marcel’s script tells a version of P.L. Travers tangling with Walt Disney over the rights to her character. However, Marcel’s source material was primarily Travers’ journals. She had no access to the Disney Archives to fully flesh out her script. The Walt Disney Company opted for the film rights to Saving Mr. Banks and presented a dramatic version of how Mary Poppins came to be.
However, to get a deeper and richer understanding of the Mary Poppins origin story, I highly recommend the recently released Making Mary Poppins by Todd Pierce. His highly sourced tome offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at what it truly means to “become” Mary Poppins inside the Disney universe. Rather than focusing on the fictional character, Pierce centers on the real people who bring Mary to life each day, creating a thoughtful and surprisingly intimate portrait of Mary Poppins, the film’s central character.
The book shines in its attention to detail, from costume standards to accent work and the emotional discipline required to stay “practically perfect” no matter the circumstances. Pierce’s writing feels personal and respectful, revealing the quiet professionalism behind the magic that guests so often take for granted.
Overall, Making Mary Poppins is a charming and insightful read for Disney fans and theater lovers alike. It celebrates the human artistry that keeps beloved characters feeling real, long after the music stops and the parade ends.
And if you’re wondering what the best Disney theme park is, it’s Disney’s Animal Kingdom. That’s a story for another time.
August 27, 2025
Todd James Pierce's Making Mary Poppins, which I received from W. W. Norton & Company and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, can only be described as a labour of love for this film, Disney and its role as a gold-plated part of so many children's childhoods.
This book will be likely helped by Saving Mister Banks, the movie in which P.L Traver's territorial approach to giving Mary Poppins to Walt 'Mickey Mouse' Disney himself was traumatic, bold and beautifully crafted as a wonderful standalone, adult film for those who wanted to know just how complicated bringing the source material to the screen was.
This book shifts the narrative to the Sherman Brothers, who, of course, deserve significant credit for changing Mary Poppins from a film with songs to a musical with a stellar collection of songs that propel the movie along.
The book is quite tight in its delivery. There could have been more about Travers and her supposed inspiration for Mr. Banks. Pierce instead looks at this book from the creative standpoint of the Disney team. His other books show that he is a keen Disneytorian (I imagine there is likely a more apt word for this) and that this book works within the timeline of his others - first came animation, then came Snow White, then came Disneyland, then came Mary Poppins: the peak of Disney's creative journey (not counting Snow White) and one which was richly rewarded... after the fact.
I'd say this is a 3.5 kind of book just because its scope is more technical, more interpersonal than personalised. He writes tightly, succinctly and sufficiently to make you feel that you are looking out from a window into a very unique time in film history. Bar the chapter of the Sherman's background - which, although relevant, does feel very stats-heavy. In some ways, I would have liked a little more about the unsung projects they undertook. Bedknobs and Broomsticks and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang are referenced. Could there be a gentle push to indicate how they contrast with MP?
Could there have been a tiny bit more about Travers? I'd say so. It brushes over her need to control. With the signing off of the project, that could have been extended a little bit.
Still, there is no question that I wouldn't recommend this to anyone interested in that delightfully British concept of a nanny (not just a goat, as the Sherman brother's assumed) turned film heroine. The focus on the Sherman brothers and their musical ear for period music, mixed with their enthusiasm to transform childhoods is obviously a God-given gift.
This book will be likely helped by Saving Mister Banks, the movie in which P.L Traver's territorial approach to giving Mary Poppins to Walt 'Mickey Mouse' Disney himself was traumatic, bold and beautifully crafted as a wonderful standalone, adult film for those who wanted to know just how complicated bringing the source material to the screen was.
This book shifts the narrative to the Sherman Brothers, who, of course, deserve significant credit for changing Mary Poppins from a film with songs to a musical with a stellar collection of songs that propel the movie along.
The book is quite tight in its delivery. There could have been more about Travers and her supposed inspiration for Mr. Banks. Pierce instead looks at this book from the creative standpoint of the Disney team. His other books show that he is a keen Disneytorian (I imagine there is likely a more apt word for this) and that this book works within the timeline of his others - first came animation, then came Snow White, then came Disneyland, then came Mary Poppins: the peak of Disney's creative journey (not counting Snow White) and one which was richly rewarded... after the fact.
I'd say this is a 3.5 kind of book just because its scope is more technical, more interpersonal than personalised. He writes tightly, succinctly and sufficiently to make you feel that you are looking out from a window into a very unique time in film history. Bar the chapter of the Sherman's background - which, although relevant, does feel very stats-heavy. In some ways, I would have liked a little more about the unsung projects they undertook. Bedknobs and Broomsticks and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang are referenced. Could there be a gentle push to indicate how they contrast with MP?
Could there have been a tiny bit more about Travers? I'd say so. It brushes over her need to control. With the signing off of the project, that could have been extended a little bit.
Still, there is no question that I wouldn't recommend this to anyone interested in that delightfully British concept of a nanny (not just a goat, as the Sherman brother's assumed) turned film heroine. The focus on the Sherman brothers and their musical ear for period music, mixed with their enthusiasm to transform childhoods is obviously a God-given gift.
September 18, 2025
I'm sure many have seen the 2013 movie "Saving Mr. Banks" about the author of Mary Poppins, P.L. Travers, and how Disney made the movie from her novel. This is primarily about the musicians who were entrusted with shaping the movie to showcase their songs. It's the story of the Sherman brothers, Robert the lyricist, and his brother Richard who composed the music, and their struggles to find their places in show business.
The book begins when the young brothers are born and raised in New York, influenced by their tunesmith father. Introspective Robert is a writer whose dream is writing a fantastic novel, and outgoing younger brother Richard's hope to compose a symphony. Neither dreams work out and on their father's advice they start writing popular tunes and move to California. They started selling some of their music, but their breakthrough arrived while writing music for Annette Funicello, which brought them to Walt Disney's attention. Disney had a long running project of making a movie based on the Mary Poppins series. He had been trying to persuade the author to sell him the rights, but she had no intention of making her books "disneyfied." After hearing the Sherman Brothers music and meeting them at Disney studios, he realized that he had the perfect team to create a movie from Traver's story collections. He needed imagination and flexibility as there was really only a series of anecdotes in her novels and the Sherman Brothers had both. From the texts, they set the time period, appropriate music, character suggestions and story arc and basically wrote the outline for the movie. But Disney still hadn't gotten permission to make the movie from Travers and hoped that by bringing her to meet his crew, he would charm her into giving him film rights-and by now she really needed his money.
Whereas the movie gave insight into the characters of Travers' books, especially Mr. Banks and Mary Poppins, the perspective of this biography was on the process of movie-making and how difficult it is to agree on anything. I must admit that when I saw the movie when it first hit the theaters in the 60's. I agreed with Travers- this didn't present the books that I adored. But after reading Pierce's book, I understood that the movie is a completely different animal, based loosely on the Mary Poppins series, but not a depiction of the novel. I would like to see it again now to appreciate the work that the Sherman brothers accomplished to create a new interpretation of this beloved book.
The book begins when the young brothers are born and raised in New York, influenced by their tunesmith father. Introspective Robert is a writer whose dream is writing a fantastic novel, and outgoing younger brother Richard's hope to compose a symphony. Neither dreams work out and on their father's advice they start writing popular tunes and move to California. They started selling some of their music, but their breakthrough arrived while writing music for Annette Funicello, which brought them to Walt Disney's attention. Disney had a long running project of making a movie based on the Mary Poppins series. He had been trying to persuade the author to sell him the rights, but she had no intention of making her books "disneyfied." After hearing the Sherman Brothers music and meeting them at Disney studios, he realized that he had the perfect team to create a movie from Traver's story collections. He needed imagination and flexibility as there was really only a series of anecdotes in her novels and the Sherman Brothers had both. From the texts, they set the time period, appropriate music, character suggestions and story arc and basically wrote the outline for the movie. But Disney still hadn't gotten permission to make the movie from Travers and hoped that by bringing her to meet his crew, he would charm her into giving him film rights-and by now she really needed his money.
Whereas the movie gave insight into the characters of Travers' books, especially Mr. Banks and Mary Poppins, the perspective of this biography was on the process of movie-making and how difficult it is to agree on anything. I must admit that when I saw the movie when it first hit the theaters in the 60's. I agreed with Travers- this didn't present the books that I adored. But after reading Pierce's book, I understood that the movie is a completely different animal, based loosely on the Mary Poppins series, but not a depiction of the novel. I would like to see it again now to appreciate the work that the Sherman brothers accomplished to create a new interpretation of this beloved book.
December 7, 2025
Filmmakers, Disney Aficionados, Music Lovers, lend me your ears !
Or, really, anyone who has a deep abiding love for "Mary Poppins".
Creative geniuses. And, no, am not talking about Walt Disney.
The author properly gives homage to the musical creativity and genius (it needs to be repeated) of the Sherman brothers. Influenced by not just their father, Al's career, but his steady influence on their talents, "Bob" and "Dick". Breathing life into a thus far, fictional character who starred in several brief snippets by the inventive mind of P.L. Travers, the Sherman brothers created a narrative via song and story. Working in tandem with Disney who was able translate their standout tunes into a once in a lifetime film is remarkable.
The easy tone used by the author who did not balk from sharing the tension between Disney and Travers, the feelings of dejection and hope the Sherman brothers experienced thru the course of their career, it's all here.
Their role too alongside one of the original icons of the Mickey Mouse club as well as the irrepressible "The Parent Trap" (the first one, hands down starring Hayley Mills) cannot be overlooked as examined in this book.
Just in time for the holiday season this book would be a perfect present underneath the tree, an apt choice for Hannukah or a pick for a secret Santa list. It's that good !
This ARC was provided by the publisher, W. W. Norton & Company, via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
#MakingMaryPoppins #NetGalley
Or, really, anyone who has a deep abiding love for "Mary Poppins".
Creative geniuses. And, no, am not talking about Walt Disney.
The author properly gives homage to the musical creativity and genius (it needs to be repeated) of the Sherman brothers. Influenced by not just their father, Al's career, but his steady influence on their talents, "Bob" and "Dick". Breathing life into a thus far, fictional character who starred in several brief snippets by the inventive mind of P.L. Travers, the Sherman brothers created a narrative via song and story. Working in tandem with Disney who was able translate their standout tunes into a once in a lifetime film is remarkable.
The easy tone used by the author who did not balk from sharing the tension between Disney and Travers, the feelings of dejection and hope the Sherman brothers experienced thru the course of their career, it's all here.
Their role too alongside one of the original icons of the Mickey Mouse club as well as the irrepressible "The Parent Trap" (the first one, hands down starring Hayley Mills) cannot be overlooked as examined in this book.
Just in time for the holiday season this book would be a perfect present underneath the tree, an apt choice for Hannukah or a pick for a secret Santa list. It's that good !
This ARC was provided by the publisher, W. W. Norton & Company, via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
#MakingMaryPoppins #NetGalley
August 16, 2025
Making Mary Poppins is a captivating behind-the-scenes journey into the heart of a film that i loved during my childhood. As someone who adored Mary Poppins growing up—the whimsy, the music, the magic—this book felt like rediscovering a beloved friend through fresh eyes.
Todd James Pierce masterfully unpacks the untold story of the Sherman brothers, whose musical genius gave life to unforgettable songs like “Feed the Birds” and “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.” Their path from struggling songwriters to Walt Disney’s trusted collaborators is both inspiring and deeply human. The book doesn’t just chronicle the making of a classic—it explores the emotional and creative threads that stitched it together.
What I especially appreciated was how Pierce balances rich historical detail with warmth and insight. The tension between Disney and P. L. Travers, the evolution of the live-action division, and the brothers’ own personal triumphs are all woven into a narrative that’s as engaging as it is illuminating.
For anyone who grew up humming along to Mary’s tunes or dreaming of chimney sweeps and carousel horses, this is a must-read. It’s a love letter to creativity, resilience, and the kind of storytelling that stays with you for a lifetime.
With thanks to Todd James Pierce, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
Todd James Pierce masterfully unpacks the untold story of the Sherman brothers, whose musical genius gave life to unforgettable songs like “Feed the Birds” and “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.” Their path from struggling songwriters to Walt Disney’s trusted collaborators is both inspiring and deeply human. The book doesn’t just chronicle the making of a classic—it explores the emotional and creative threads that stitched it together.
What I especially appreciated was how Pierce balances rich historical detail with warmth and insight. The tension between Disney and P. L. Travers, the evolution of the live-action division, and the brothers’ own personal triumphs are all woven into a narrative that’s as engaging as it is illuminating.
For anyone who grew up humming along to Mary’s tunes or dreaming of chimney sweeps and carousel horses, this is a must-read. It’s a love letter to creativity, resilience, and the kind of storytelling that stays with you for a lifetime.
With thanks to Todd James Pierce, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
November 8, 2025
Mary Poppins has been my absolute favorite since I was a little girl, so it’s no surprise I loved this book on the history of making the movie. I’ve read and watched a lot about the movie over the years, so I made sure that the author was knowledgeable on the subject, and as soon I saw it was written by one of the Disney History Institute podcast hosts, I knew it would be accurate.
While the book is about the making of Mary Poppins, a big focus of the book is the Sherman brothers, who wrote most of the classic Disney songs you know. They were integral to turning the Mary Poppins books into the movie we all know and love, and I’m always glad for more people to learn about them.
Even with as much as I know about the film & the Sherman brothers, I still feel like I learned new things. This is a great read for any Mary Poppins or Disney history fan. It made me want to immediately start rewatching the movie for the millionth time!
Thank you to W. W. Norton & Company and NetGalley for providing the ARC for my honest review!
While the book is about the making of Mary Poppins, a big focus of the book is the Sherman brothers, who wrote most of the classic Disney songs you know. They were integral to turning the Mary Poppins books into the movie we all know and love, and I’m always glad for more people to learn about them.
Even with as much as I know about the film & the Sherman brothers, I still feel like I learned new things. This is a great read for any Mary Poppins or Disney history fan. It made me want to immediately start rewatching the movie for the millionth time!
Thank you to W. W. Norton & Company and NetGalley for providing the ARC for my honest review!
November 19, 2025
Brothers and songwriting team Bob and Dick Sherman are struggling until they start writing songs for Walt Disney. They start smaller at first with some television shows and lesser-known movies, but after writing for the hit The Parent Trap, Walt sets them to help steer the script and music for his adaptation of Mary Poppins. The road is littered with an unhappy author, younger onscreen talent, and a new combination of live action and animation. What ultimately becomes a studio defining film was at the time and big risk.
I loved this concise and interesting behind the scenes of this beloved movie. It wasn't overly detailed but just enough to fully cover the topic, which I really appreciated. I'm adding this one to my behind-the-scenes nonfiction shelf as a winner.
Thank you to Netgalley for the advance copy for review. All books are read by me and all thought are purely my own, without the use of AI.
I loved this concise and interesting behind the scenes of this beloved movie. It wasn't overly detailed but just enough to fully cover the topic, which I really appreciated. I'm adding this one to my behind-the-scenes nonfiction shelf as a winner.
Thank you to Netgalley for the advance copy for review. All books are read by me and all thought are purely my own, without the use of AI.
December 3, 2025
On a recent visit to Disneyland, I noticed a sign posting a show about the Sherman Brothers. I had no idea who they were and so I didn't bother to stop and see the show. Then a week later, I'm in the library and I see the book "Making Mary Poppins" with the subtitle, "The Sherman Brothers, Walt Disney, and the Creation of the Classic Film."
I checked the book out because now I wanted to know who the Sherman Brothers are and what did they have to do with the Disney Co. This book is a fascinating journey into the life of the Sherman Brothers and how they influenced the Mary Poppins movie with their ingenuity, creativity, and imagination. Even more, how they influenced Walt Disney and the fun songs they brought to many of his movies and to Disneyland rides.
This is an informative story about two men who made Mary Poppins one of the best movies to hit the big screen. It's about two men who made songs that are forever in your head.
I checked the book out because now I wanted to know who the Sherman Brothers are and what did they have to do with the Disney Co. This book is a fascinating journey into the life of the Sherman Brothers and how they influenced the Mary Poppins movie with their ingenuity, creativity, and imagination. Even more, how they influenced Walt Disney and the fun songs they brought to many of his movies and to Disneyland rides.
This is an informative story about two men who made Mary Poppins one of the best movies to hit the big screen. It's about two men who made songs that are forever in your head.
December 23, 2025
This book made for such an engrossing and informative read taking me on an in depth journey as to the making and culmination of one of my all time favourite films growing up- Mary Poppins.
In terms of structure, this was such a well written book highlighting the hard work of Walt Disney along with the Sherman Brothers ( Bob and Dick) as well as how they brought together the entire cast for the movie whilst adhering to some of the wishes of the short stories author Mrs Travers.
It was so interesting as to the ways in which the short stories were selected and brainstormed by the Sherman Brothers and Walt Disney in order to be converted into the backbone for the films plot along with the wholesome and family messages in the finished product within the film as a whole.
I would highly recommend this book to fans of the classic movies.
Thankyou to Net galley and the publisher for an arc of this wonderful book.
In terms of structure, this was such a well written book highlighting the hard work of Walt Disney along with the Sherman Brothers ( Bob and Dick) as well as how they brought together the entire cast for the movie whilst adhering to some of the wishes of the short stories author Mrs Travers.
It was so interesting as to the ways in which the short stories were selected and brainstormed by the Sherman Brothers and Walt Disney in order to be converted into the backbone for the films plot along with the wholesome and family messages in the finished product within the film as a whole.
I would highly recommend this book to fans of the classic movies.
Thankyou to Net galley and the publisher for an arc of this wonderful book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2025
I received an electronic ARC from W. W. Norton & Company through NetGalley.
Pierce takes readers behind the scenes from the start of the idea through the premier and release of the movie. The main focus is on the Sherman brothers and their journey as composers. Readers also see how Walt Disney pushed for this movie to be made and finessed the disagreements with Travers (the author of the book series) to make the production he wanted to make.
I felt the author provided sufficient details without getting bogged down so readers could walk this path with the entire production team. Admittedly, I've been a Mary Poppins fan - books and movie, since childhood, but I think this book presents well researched information and offers insight into how significant this movie was for Disney and the Shermans.
Pierce takes readers behind the scenes from the start of the idea through the premier and release of the movie. The main focus is on the Sherman brothers and their journey as composers. Readers also see how Walt Disney pushed for this movie to be made and finessed the disagreements with Travers (the author of the book series) to make the production he wanted to make.
I felt the author provided sufficient details without getting bogged down so readers could walk this path with the entire production team. Admittedly, I've been a Mary Poppins fan - books and movie, since childhood, but I think this book presents well researched information and offers insight into how significant this movie was for Disney and the Shermans.
December 11, 2025
Book Report: Making Mary Poppins by Todd James Pierce
Making Mary Poppins gives a vivid…behind the scenes look at how the Sherman Brothers…Walt Disney and P. L. Travers brought one of Disney’s most beloved films to life. From the brothers early songwriting days to the creative tug of war behind the scenes…this book traces the art…ambition and resilience that shaped an era of Disney filmmaking🎶✨
Another goodie added to my Disney history collection! This was delightful. A true backstage pass into how a classic novel transformed into an iconic family film📚🎬 If you loved Saving Mr. Banks (which I absolutely did!) this book takes things to the next level with even more fun BTS tidbits I lived for💛🔎
Thank you W.W. Norton and Company for the free book
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
Making Mary Poppins gives a vivid…behind the scenes look at how the Sherman Brothers…Walt Disney and P. L. Travers brought one of Disney’s most beloved films to life. From the brothers early songwriting days to the creative tug of war behind the scenes…this book traces the art…ambition and resilience that shaped an era of Disney filmmaking🎶✨
Another goodie added to my Disney history collection! This was delightful. A true backstage pass into how a classic novel transformed into an iconic family film📚🎬 If you loved Saving Mr. Banks (which I absolutely did!) this book takes things to the next level with even more fun BTS tidbits I lived for💛🔎
Thank you W.W. Norton and Company for the free book
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
December 15, 2025
Behind the scenes books about films often focus a little too much on gossip and interpersonal drama for my taste, and this backstage look at Mary Poppins is an excellent corrective to that trend. While this book mostly follows the journey of the Sherman Brothers who wrote the film's classic songs, the author focuses on the various artisans that made the film come to life, and explains how they did what they did. Since the particular qualities of Mary Poppins seem like they cam from other time or even another dimension today, hearing about how exactly the film's magic was achieved across various departments is simply fascinating. If you love film, you will burn through this breezy yet detailed look at how the classic film came to life.
September 23, 2025
I’d like to send a thank you to NetGalley and W.W. Norton & Company for this ARC!
Growing up, I watched a lot of Disney films and was always intrigued by the making of them at an early age. Mary Poppins was one of those films. This biography goes behind-the-scenes of the movie and in depth about the songwriters of the film, The Sherman Brothers. This is one biography that I did not want to end and I enjoyed every second of it. This title is set to be published on November 11th, 2025.
October 31, 2025
* I honestly reviewed a copy of this book that I received from a Goodreads give-away. *
This book was a fun inside look at the making of Mary Poppins from the perspective of the songwriters. You start with their early career and go through til after the movie is released. I love the movie and the songs. I love them so much that each time a song was referenced, I was humming it whilst reading. This was a very pleasant read with a good flow to it. If you love the movie and the songs, this for you. If you are not familiar with either, I still think it would be a good read.
This book was a fun inside look at the making of Mary Poppins from the perspective of the songwriters. You start with their early career and go through til after the movie is released. I love the movie and the songs. I love them so much that each time a song was referenced, I was humming it whilst reading. This was a very pleasant read with a good flow to it. If you love the movie and the songs, this for you. If you are not familiar with either, I still think it would be a good read.
September 15, 2025
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley.
As a little girl I loved the Mary Poppins film and have gone to show it to my children. The book follows the Sherman brothers and how they came to the Mary Poppins project and everything they put into it. I can't believe how much goes into making a film!
I really enjoyed reading this story, it wasn't too technical and moved at a good pace.
Would highly recommend to Mary Poppins fans and film lovers!
As a little girl I loved the Mary Poppins film and have gone to show it to my children. The book follows the Sherman brothers and how they came to the Mary Poppins project and everything they put into it. I can't believe how much goes into making a film!
I really enjoyed reading this story, it wasn't too technical and moved at a good pace.
Would highly recommend to Mary Poppins fans and film lovers!
November 28, 2025
it's all fun and games until the treatment p.l travers suffered under disney is glossed over and they make her look like a hysterical woman and a nuisance. the fact that she's treated like a footnote who kept occasionally pestering production in this book is crazy to me. p.l travers know i will always be your warrior
November 19, 2025
I figured this would be a book I skimmed through. Surprisingly, I read it in 3 days. It really kept my attention and was so well written! I learned a lot about Walt Disneys early days and how he approached his work. I liked it a lot!
July 13, 2025
A must read for any fan of the movie! 💕
November 23, 2025
If you're a fan of the movie "Mary Poppins" and/or the music of the Sherman Brothers, you're sure to like this.
December 6, 2025
An entertaining book about the making of Mary Poppins. If you like Disney history, I highly recommend it. It is an interesting book, with lots of fun facts.
December 12, 2025
3.75 stars
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