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From an Idea to Disney: How Imagination Built a World of Magic
From an Idea to Disney is a behind-the-movie-screen look into the history, business, and brand of the world's largest entertainment empire. With humorous black & white illustrations throughout, learn about the company behind the world's favorite mouse, Mickey!
“I only hope that we never lose sight of one thing—that it was all started by a mouse.” —Walt Disney
Today, the Walt Disney Company is the biggest entertainment company in the world with theme parks, TV shows, movie studios, merchandise, the most recognizable cartoon character in the world, Mickey Mouse. But a long time ago, brothers Walt and Roy Disney started out with just an idea. Find out more about Disney’s history, the business, and the brand in this illustrated nonfiction book!
“I only hope that we never lose sight of one thing—that it was all started by a mouse.” —Walt Disney
Today, the Walt Disney Company is the biggest entertainment company in the world with theme parks, TV shows, movie studios, merchandise, the most recognizable cartoon character in the world, Mickey Mouse. But a long time ago, brothers Walt and Roy Disney started out with just an idea. Find out more about Disney’s history, the business, and the brand in this illustrated nonfiction book!
112 pages, Hardcover
First published February 1, 2019
38 people are currently reading
209 people want to read
About the author
Lowey Bundy Sichol
9 books17 followersLowey Bundy Sichol (her last name rhymes with pickle) is an author, speaker, MBA, and leading expert in teaching business and entrepreneurship to kids. Her nonfiction series, FROM AN IDEA TO..., takes young readers (age 8-12) into the world of entrepreneurship through the true stories of how our favorite companies came to be. (New York: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2019)
Lowey is also the creator and host of IDEA Tank for Kids, a “Shark Tank” inspired competition for kids that received national media attention in 2019 and will expand to new markets in 2020. www.IdeaTankForKids.com)
Lowey received an MBA from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth and a BA from Hamilton College where she played varsity softball and women’s rugby. An avid athlete, Lowey’s spends her free time playing sports, coaching youth basketball and softball, and along the shores of Lake Michigan with husband, three children, and two big dogs.
Lowey is also the creator and host of IDEA Tank for Kids, a “Shark Tank” inspired competition for kids that received national media attention in 2019 and will expand to new markets in 2020. www.IdeaTankForKids.com)
Lowey received an MBA from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth and a BA from Hamilton College where she played varsity softball and women’s rugby. An avid athlete, Lowey’s spends her free time playing sports, coaching youth basketball and softball, and along the shores of Lake Michigan with husband, three children, and two big dogs.
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January 5, 2024
نشر نردبان یه مجموعهی چهارجلدی ترجمه و چاپ کرده با عنوان از ایده تا برند. هر جلد ماجرای شکلگیری یکی از برندهای مطرح دنیاست: دیزنی، گوگل، نایکی و لگو. حقیقتش من از انتخابهای نشر نردبان خیلی خوشم میآد و ابعاد و کیفیت چاپ کتابها هم خیلی خوب بود و موضوع مجموعه رو دوست داشتم، پس همین که توی کتابفروشی دیدمشون، گفتم آها! میگیرمشون برای خواهرزادهام، اما از خدا که پنهون نیست، از خوانندههای این مرور هم پنهون نباشه که برای دل خودم خریدمشون. هرچند که یک روز بالاخره خواهرزادهام کتابها رو دید و خواست که بخونشون و منم مجبور شدم اعتراف کنم که اصلاً برای خودش خریدمشون، ولی ازش یه فرصت گرفتم که کتابها رو اول بخونم و بعد بهش بدم. خودم دوست داشتم اول گوگلش رو بخونم، اما اون دوست داشت اول دیزنی رو بخونه (که من کمترین تمایل رو بین چهار جلد بهش داشتم). خلاصه این شد که از کتاب دیزنی این مجموعه رو شروع کردم.
واقعاً کتاب خیلی خوبی بود. جوری که اولش با میل کم شروعش کردم، اما تا انتهاش من رو جذب خودش کرد و حتی آرزوی سر زدن به یکی از دیزنیلندها رو به سرم انداخت. قصهگویی خیلی خوبی داشت. صفحهآرایی عالی بود. متن با تصویر ترکیب شده بود که باعث میشه برای مخاطب نوعیش خستهکننده نباشه.
لابهلای کتاب، بعضی مفاهیم اقتصادی و مدیریتی (مرتبط با خط روایت کتاب) به زبان خیلی ساده برای بچهها توضیح داده شده که بهنظرم دونستنشون واقعاً ضروریه و چه خوب که بچهها از همون سن کم باهاشون آشنا بشن. مفاهیمی مثل سهامی عام شدن، بازار بورس، سهام، ارزش بازار یک شرکت، رهن، ورشکستگی و... مفاهیمی که شاید خیلی از آدمبزرگها هم توی فهمشون دچار مشکل باشن! هرچند بعضی توضیحاتش دقیق نبود (مثل تعریفش از ارزش بازار)، اما برای مخاطب هدفش کارراهاندازه (اصلاً یکی از دلایلی که ترغیب به خریدن کتابها شدم، همین توضیحاتش بود).
لابهلای کتاب جملههای منتخبی از کسی که زندگینامهاش روایت میشه آورده شده که حداقل توی این جلد خیلی جملات خوبی انتخاب شده بود.
توی این کتاب به چالشهایی هم اشاره شده که دیزنی در مسیر راهاندازی کسبوکارش باهاشون مواجه شده، که به نظرم میتونه به خوانندهی نوجوان دید وسیعتری از مدیریت یک کسبوکار بده.
در مجموع خیلی کتاب خوبیه و بهروزه. زندگینامهی صرف هم نیست و توصیهها و نتیجهگیریهای جالبی هم داره. اصلاً هم خشک و حوصلهسربر نیست. دربارهی نسخهی فارسی هم بگم که گرچه یکی دوجا متن دچار اشکالات ویرایشی کوچیکه، اما در کل ترجمه خوبی داره و متناسب با جامعهی هدفشه. فقط بعضی جاها ترجمهی داخل تصویر با ترجمهی متن کتاب همخوانی نداره. مثلاً توی یکی از عبارت فنتسیا استفاده شده و توی دیگری از فانتزیا. در ضمن ای کاش معادل انگلیسی بعضی اسامی هم توی کتاب پانوشت میشد.
واقعاً کتاب خیلی خوبی بود. جوری که اولش با میل کم شروعش کردم، اما تا انتهاش من رو جذب خودش کرد و حتی آرزوی سر زدن به یکی از دیزنیلندها رو به سرم انداخت. قصهگویی خیلی خوبی داشت. صفحهآرایی عالی بود. متن با تصویر ترکیب شده بود که باعث میشه برای مخاطب نوعیش خستهکننده نباشه.
لابهلای کتاب، بعضی مفاهیم اقتصادی و مدیریتی (مرتبط با خط روایت کتاب) به زبان خیلی ساده برای بچهها توضیح داده شده که بهنظرم دونستنشون واقعاً ضروریه و چه خوب که بچهها از همون سن کم باهاشون آشنا بشن. مفاهیمی مثل سهامی عام شدن، بازار بورس، سهام، ارزش بازار یک شرکت، رهن، ورشکستگی و... مفاهیمی که شاید خیلی از آدمبزرگها هم توی فهمشون دچار مشکل باشن! هرچند بعضی توضیحاتش دقیق نبود (مثل تعریفش از ارزش بازار)، اما برای مخاطب هدفش کارراهاندازه (اصلاً یکی از دلایلی که ترغیب به خریدن کتابها شدم، همین توضیحاتش بود).
لابهلای کتاب جملههای منتخبی از کسی که زندگینامهاش روایت میشه آورده شده که حداقل توی این جلد خیلی جملات خوبی انتخاب شده بود.
توی این کتاب به چالشهایی هم اشاره شده که دیزنی در مسیر راهاندازی کسبوکارش باهاشون مواجه شده، که به نظرم میتونه به خوانندهی نوجوان دید وسیعتری از مدیریت یک کسبوکار بده.
در مجموع خیلی کتاب خوبیه و بهروزه. زندگینامهی صرف هم نیست و توصیهها و نتیجهگیریهای جالبی هم داره. اصلاً هم خشک و حوصلهسربر نیست. دربارهی نسخهی فارسی هم بگم که گرچه یکی دوجا متن دچار اشکالات ویرایشی کوچیکه، اما در کل ترجمه خوبی داره و متناسب با جامعهی هدفشه. فقط بعضی جاها ترجمهی داخل تصویر با ترجمهی متن کتاب همخوانی نداره. مثلاً توی یکی از عبارت فنتسیا استفاده شده و توی دیگری از فانتزیا. در ضمن ای کاش معادل انگلیسی بعضی اسامی هم توی کتاب پانوشت میشد.
April 9, 2019
This book is a wonderful overview of how Walt Disney began his business with a simple cartoon mouse and how it developed into the massive global company it is today. Focusing on the business savvy and the innovative concepts that built the Disney empire, this story explains how a business needs investors, branding, and loyal customers to succeed, but that it is the magic in the details that builds a heritage of excellence.
I really enjoyed reading this book! It is written for young children, so many business concepts that a child wouldn't know like "Revenue," Mortgage," or "Board of Directors" are explained with definitions for the bigger words. There are also "Fun Fact" boxes within the text that give extra tidbits of information about Walt Disney and his company.
I especially liked the emphasis on family, heritage, and excellence which the Disney company is known for. I think the author did a good job of giving a sweeping overview of the history of Disney with a few interesting details added in, but still keeping the main story fairly simple and easy to follow. The book doesn't get bogged down in too many details, but focuses on the bigger picture; and the details that ARE added in are obviously carefully chosen to reinforce the main themes of the story.
I would recommend this book to any child ages 7-12. It's fun and interesting, and kept my attention! I also liked the funny illustrations and drawings included on every page!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Media Masters Publicity in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.
I really enjoyed reading this book! It is written for young children, so many business concepts that a child wouldn't know like "Revenue," Mortgage," or "Board of Directors" are explained with definitions for the bigger words. There are also "Fun Fact" boxes within the text that give extra tidbits of information about Walt Disney and his company.
I especially liked the emphasis on family, heritage, and excellence which the Disney company is known for. I think the author did a good job of giving a sweeping overview of the history of Disney with a few interesting details added in, but still keeping the main story fairly simple and easy to follow. The book doesn't get bogged down in too many details, but focuses on the bigger picture; and the details that ARE added in are obviously carefully chosen to reinforce the main themes of the story.
I would recommend this book to any child ages 7-12. It's fun and interesting, and kept my attention! I also liked the funny illustrations and drawings included on every page!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Media Masters Publicity in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.
March 28, 2021
This was very informative and easy to digest. I'm pretty sure the targeted audience is for kids, but it's very business-y. I don't think this is a book kids would necessarily go for and I'm also not sure it could retain their interest.
Personally, I thought this was a great little book. The only thing I would've wanted to see is some real pictures. Maybe images of original Disney merchandise - things like that.
This is a huge topic to even tackle but it was really well done.
Update: (3/28/2021) In my half sleep this morning, I remembered that there was no mention of the Disney logo! I’m sure there’s a story and a history behind that.
Personally, I thought this was a great little book. The only thing I would've wanted to see is some real pictures. Maybe images of original Disney merchandise - things like that.
This is a huge topic to even tackle but it was really well done.
Update: (3/28/2021) In my half sleep this morning, I remembered that there was no mention of the Disney logo! I’m sure there’s a story and a history behind that.
April 30, 2019
I cannot get enough of these, "From and Idea to" books! This book can really help fill the educational gap in the teaching of business and economics in schools. Read my full review of this book here: https://agoodreid.blogspot.com/2019/0...
April 21, 2019
Why I chose this book:
When a review copy was offered by Media Masters Publicity in exchange for an honest review, I accepted because my childhood was filled with Disney and I was curious to learn more about the development of the brand.
Review
From an Idea to Disney is an introduction to Walter Disney and the Walt Disney Company. The first several chapters focus on the life of the man Disney, and the final chapters focus on the corporation. Interspersed are fun facts, quotes from Walt, and definitions of economic terms. It is the economic focus of the latter half of the book that sets it apart from other children's biographies. (I read a few different Walt Disney bios for kids when I was still grading book reports.)
In From an Idea to Disney, readers will learn about how the Disney brand expanded through the decades, from Mickey and Snow White to theme parks, the Mighty Ducks, and Animal Kingdom. Readers will also learn about how a company is organized, who a CEO is, and why Michael Eisner was eventually pushed to resign as CEO. Spoiler alert: he got too commercial-ly, which Roy E. Disney didn't like. One notable omission is the Walt Disney World minimum wage controversy, particularly because the aim of books in this series is to introduce children to entrepreneurs and business-building. It seems as though part of the Disney story is missing without addressing the compensation of cast members who make the brand a success. Despite that, I would recommend this bio to young readers who are interested in Walt Disney or have curiosity about businesses and entrepreneurship. The writing flows smoothly and is appropriate for children in grades 4-7, and the content is simultaneously informative and interesting.
And here's a tidbit. I always think of the movies from my childhood as Disney's Golden Era. Turns out I'm not far off - The Little Mermaid is considered the start of Disney's Renaissance. I'm gratified to know it.
When a review copy was offered by Media Masters Publicity in exchange for an honest review, I accepted because my childhood was filled with Disney and I was curious to learn more about the development of the brand.
Review
From an Idea to Disney is an introduction to Walter Disney and the Walt Disney Company. The first several chapters focus on the life of the man Disney, and the final chapters focus on the corporation. Interspersed are fun facts, quotes from Walt, and definitions of economic terms. It is the economic focus of the latter half of the book that sets it apart from other children's biographies. (I read a few different Walt Disney bios for kids when I was still grading book reports.)
In From an Idea to Disney, readers will learn about how the Disney brand expanded through the decades, from Mickey and Snow White to theme parks, the Mighty Ducks, and Animal Kingdom. Readers will also learn about how a company is organized, who a CEO is, and why Michael Eisner was eventually pushed to resign as CEO. Spoiler alert: he got too commercial-ly, which Roy E. Disney didn't like. One notable omission is the Walt Disney World minimum wage controversy, particularly because the aim of books in this series is to introduce children to entrepreneurs and business-building. It seems as though part of the Disney story is missing without addressing the compensation of cast members who make the brand a success. Despite that, I would recommend this bio to young readers who are interested in Walt Disney or have curiosity about businesses and entrepreneurship. The writing flows smoothly and is appropriate for children in grades 4-7, and the content is simultaneously informative and interesting.
And here's a tidbit. I always think of the movies from my childhood as Disney's Golden Era. Turns out I'm not far off - The Little Mermaid is considered the start of Disney's Renaissance. I'm gratified to know it.
April 7, 2019
From an idea to Disney is a chapter book publication, part of a new series on introducing business to kids aged 9+. The focus of this book is on Walt Disney's beginnings, his career and how many of his creations came to be. From an idea to Disney takes you behind the scenes to understand not just Walt Disney's journey but also the making of a business which we all have to come to love.
What was exciting about this book, was the focus on business concepts and in this book, the focus was on Branding. While there are books that are in the "Who was/ What was" series, this series is a wonderful concept in bringing biographies and business thinking together. Starting with much loved brand such as Disney was smart! Disney is definitely an attractive topic, a subject that we are all aware of, know about and can immediately relate. From that perspective, the author then dives into new concepts such as " what is 'going public' mean?", "what does market value mean?" and "why do stock prices fluctuate?". The author has made these concepts accessible to kids and the illustrators makes it fun with the cartoon like images and simple black and white illustrations that do not take away from the focus of the text.
There was much to love about this book! I asked my 11 year old to give me a short blurb of what she found fascinating and she highlighted the cultural changes that the last CEO was making to take the company back to its "roots". Needless to say, in my mind that was a winning comment!
My only nit would be the format of the book. Its nice and compact, but it could have been a little more "sturdy" and quality wise could have stood up to the "who is" series. But this doesn't take away from the educational nature of the series!
What was exciting about this book, was the focus on business concepts and in this book, the focus was on Branding. While there are books that are in the "Who was/ What was" series, this series is a wonderful concept in bringing biographies and business thinking together. Starting with much loved brand such as Disney was smart! Disney is definitely an attractive topic, a subject that we are all aware of, know about and can immediately relate. From that perspective, the author then dives into new concepts such as " what is 'going public' mean?", "what does market value mean?" and "why do stock prices fluctuate?". The author has made these concepts accessible to kids and the illustrators makes it fun with the cartoon like images and simple black and white illustrations that do not take away from the focus of the text.
There was much to love about this book! I asked my 11 year old to give me a short blurb of what she found fascinating and she highlighted the cultural changes that the last CEO was making to take the company back to its "roots". Needless to say, in my mind that was a winning comment!
My only nit would be the format of the book. Its nice and compact, but it could have been a little more "sturdy" and quality wise could have stood up to the "who is" series. But this doesn't take away from the educational nature of the series!
April 6, 2019
I LOVE this wonderful, highly informative book about Walt Disney. It's funny because earlier this week I was having a discussion with a 5th grade girl about what she wants to do when she grows up and she said "Be a character at Disney World." This book is not in my library or I would have handed it to her immediately. This book WILL BE in my library after my next book order, along with all the other books in the series.
First of all, this is any easy book. Lots of illustrations. But my 4th and 5th graders devour the "Who Was.../What Was..." series, so I know they will be equally interested in this series. More than a book about the man Walt Disney, it's a book about the Disney brand. It describes how Disney started with a concept and grew his company into a worldwide brand that everyone recognizes. This is an intro book to entrepreneurship. An incredibly hot topic today. Throughout the book, business concepts are defined in side boxes. Examples: Laid off, revenue, bankruptcy, intellectual property rights, innovation, mortgage, and many more. The business concept that is described in the most detail is the concept of taking your company public through the stock market. Six full pages on the stock market.
Here's what I, a 48-year-old, learned from the book. After the Disney Brothers died, the brand suffered through the 70s/80s with CEOs who didn't have the vision. Then Michael Eisner took over and brought it back to life. He took it too far and was replaced in 2004 by Bob Iger who, got it back on track, and remains the current CEO.
Even adults can learn from simple kids books.
First of all, this is any easy book. Lots of illustrations. But my 4th and 5th graders devour the "Who Was.../What Was..." series, so I know they will be equally interested in this series. More than a book about the man Walt Disney, it's a book about the Disney brand. It describes how Disney started with a concept and grew his company into a worldwide brand that everyone recognizes. This is an intro book to entrepreneurship. An incredibly hot topic today. Throughout the book, business concepts are defined in side boxes. Examples: Laid off, revenue, bankruptcy, intellectual property rights, innovation, mortgage, and many more. The business concept that is described in the most detail is the concept of taking your company public through the stock market. Six full pages on the stock market.
Here's what I, a 48-year-old, learned from the book. After the Disney Brothers died, the brand suffered through the 70s/80s with CEOs who didn't have the vision. Then Michael Eisner took over and brought it back to life. He took it too far and was replaced in 2004 by Bob Iger who, got it back on track, and remains the current CEO.
Even adults can learn from simple kids books.
June 27, 2019
First sentence: When you think of Disney, you probably think of Mickey Mouse.
Premise/plot: From An Idea to Disney is one of the books in a new business series published by HMH. (Other titles include From an Idea to LEGO, From an Idea to Nike, From an Idea to Google). This 'biography' of Walt Disney is focused primarily on his career, his company. In fact, almost half of the book focuses on the Disney company/brand after the deaths of Walt and Roy Disney. It covers the highs and lows of Disney. It documents his persistence. Success did not come easy. There were many times when it might have made sense to quit and try something else. Disney kept trying and kept dreaming big.
My thoughts: I enjoyed this one. I didn't ever think of there being a lack of books about business and economics for this age group--elementary students--until I started reading this series. It is nice to see a different twist on the biographical genre. I found it informational. All the books in the series have black and white illustrations.
Premise/plot: From An Idea to Disney is one of the books in a new business series published by HMH. (Other titles include From an Idea to LEGO, From an Idea to Nike, From an Idea to Google). This 'biography' of Walt Disney is focused primarily on his career, his company. In fact, almost half of the book focuses on the Disney company/brand after the deaths of Walt and Roy Disney. It covers the highs and lows of Disney. It documents his persistence. Success did not come easy. There were many times when it might have made sense to quit and try something else. Disney kept trying and kept dreaming big.
My thoughts: I enjoyed this one. I didn't ever think of there being a lack of books about business and economics for this age group--elementary students--until I started reading this series. It is nice to see a different twist on the biographical genre. I found it informational. All the books in the series have black and white illustrations.
April 7, 2019
In 1923 Roy and Walt Disney had an idea. Now, it’s the biggest entertainment company in the world. We all know Mickey Mouse but now we know and love so many other Disney characters. Prior to his Disney empire, Walt hand been laid off from work and even declared bankruptcy. His idea of Mickey Mouse stemmed from a previous mouse named Mortimer. From there Mickey Mouse was the first animated character with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
When Walt came up with his idea of an amusement park he had his young daughters and other families in mind. Walt would sometimes put on a desquise and walk around the park. The Disney brand as expanded into plenty of mediums. Young readers can learn about how Walt got his start, business terms, fun facts about his parks and so much more. The back pages have a Timeline and more resources for engaged learning. Parents and teachers will love sharing this guide to spark the entrepreneur spirit in children.
When Walt came up with his idea of an amusement park he had his young daughters and other families in mind. Walt would sometimes put on a desquise and walk around the park. The Disney brand as expanded into plenty of mediums. Young readers can learn about how Walt got his start, business terms, fun facts about his parks and so much more. The back pages have a Timeline and more resources for engaged learning. Parents and teachers will love sharing this guide to spark the entrepreneur spirit in children.
December 19, 2018
This book is a great business biography on the inspiration behind Disney and the growth of the company. The author takes the reader through the early life and influences of Walt Disney and after Walt and Roy's death in the second half of the book explains how the company struggled and then rebounded under the new strategic leadership of Michael Eisner and Bob Iger. The book is a good introduction to entrepreneurship and business concepts for young readers (ages 8-11) and an inspiring read that encourages young readers to follow their dreams and passions, like Walt Disney.
May 5, 2019
Inspiring, honest and interesting...From An Idea books are the kind of books that create young entrepreneurs and inventors. It clearly illustrates the road to success, the good and the bad. Kids will be inspired to believe that anything is truly possible. They will also learn that things will not just be handed to them. Rather things they really want will take work, will be earned and that in the end all that hard work and perseverance will pay off! I love this series SO much!
May 5, 2019
Here is what I really like about these books: they give actual business information and definitions in a way that even young readers can understand. These books answer questions like:
Why do companies go public – and what does this even mean?
Why do stock prices go up and down?
What is market research?
For the full review: https://twobookwormsblog.wordpress.co...
Why do companies go public – and what does this even mean?
Why do stock prices go up and down?
What is market research?
For the full review: https://twobookwormsblog.wordpress.co...
May 16, 2019
Cute book for young kids about the history of Disney! As a Disney junkie, I loved it!
June 2, 2020
Fascinating. I predict that my 4th graders will eat this one up in the same way they do the Who Was books.
November 17, 2019
Great series.
November 15, 2019
2020 Tx Bluebonnet
November 7, 2019
A great concept for an economics book! Tie cold, hard facts about finances and the stock market in with Walt Disney and how he built his magic kingdoms, and kids can relate. My only objection is that the pages are so small that too much is crammed onto one page, making the information look convoluted. And it cries out for a little color. The illustrations are spot on. Walt Disney’s quotes are always designated by a character drawing of the great man himself, maintaining consistency.
Economic lessons are explained clearly complete with vocabulary and historical background where appropriate. This book is an ideal tool for explaining the often tricky and confusing ins and outs of our financial system in the business world to the intermediate grades.
Economic lessons are explained clearly complete with vocabulary and historical background where appropriate. This book is an ideal tool for explaining the often tricky and confusing ins and outs of our financial system in the business world to the intermediate grades.
February 8, 2025
Reminds me of the biography of Walt Disney I read earlier this year, just much more condensed 😭 Still really cute for kids. Idk if this is Highschool library level of writing… but who cares😭
November 9, 2019
When we went to Disney, I didn't think about it at the time, but I didn't see any trash!
November 6, 2019
My favorite fun fact? Frozen is based (very loosely based) on Hans Christian Andersen's The Snow Queen. Four of the main characters in Frozen are Hans, Kristoff, Anna, and Sven. So if you say Hans Kristoff Anna Sven - it sounds a bit like Hans Christian Andersen. And that Minnie Mouse has 100 different outfits. (Mickey has more).
December 18, 2018
This book is terrible. I think it is patronizing to their target audience of 10-12 year olds. I really felt like the author explained things as if kids were total idiots.
The author also completely glosses over Walt's crowning achievement, Disneyland. He painstakingly oversaw all the details of the park and was involved every step of the way. There was no mention of his apartment over Main Street Firehouse either. It sounds like this person prefers Walt Disney World or just knows nothing about Disneyland.
The book does not really introduce any new Disney trivia tidbits I was hoping for. I read just about everything I can get my hands on about Disney and there always seems to be some little nugget introduced in a sea of information that I have never heard before. All of what she wrote has been done and said before.
I guess when I bought this I didn't realize this was meant to be a business/marketing "textbook" for young kids. Most Disney fans (I would think even young kids, especially if they are voracious readers) know all the information presented in the book already. She goes on and on about how Disney doesn't sell gum to keep the parks clean "so visitors will never step on chewed-up gum". Um, people bring in their own gum. I think the more important marketing ploy, one that would be useful is that Walt has trash cans 30 steps apart. He experimented to find out how far people would walk before discarding their trash on the move and the answer was about 30 steps. This is much more interesting than repeating over and over the parks don't sell gum.
If you're a Disney fan of any age, skip this book. You probably know all and more than the information presented in this text. I suppose if you have a budding entrepreneur who has never seen Shark Tank and is dying to know about some of Disney's business ideas, you could buy this. However, I would image there are much better books out there to even give the information in this book. The writing is not very good. Overall, this is a hard pass for me as a Disney addict.
The author also completely glosses over Walt's crowning achievement, Disneyland. He painstakingly oversaw all the details of the park and was involved every step of the way. There was no mention of his apartment over Main Street Firehouse either. It sounds like this person prefers Walt Disney World or just knows nothing about Disneyland.
The book does not really introduce any new Disney trivia tidbits I was hoping for. I read just about everything I can get my hands on about Disney and there always seems to be some little nugget introduced in a sea of information that I have never heard before. All of what she wrote has been done and said before.
I guess when I bought this I didn't realize this was meant to be a business/marketing "textbook" for young kids. Most Disney fans (I would think even young kids, especially if they are voracious readers) know all the information presented in the book already. She goes on and on about how Disney doesn't sell gum to keep the parks clean "so visitors will never step on chewed-up gum". Um, people bring in their own gum. I think the more important marketing ploy, one that would be useful is that Walt has trash cans 30 steps apart. He experimented to find out how far people would walk before discarding their trash on the move and the answer was about 30 steps. This is much more interesting than repeating over and over the parks don't sell gum.
If you're a Disney fan of any age, skip this book. You probably know all and more than the information presented in this text. I suppose if you have a budding entrepreneur who has never seen Shark Tank and is dying to know about some of Disney's business ideas, you could buy this. However, I would image there are much better books out there to even give the information in this book. The writing is not very good. Overall, this is a hard pass for me as a Disney addict.
July 30, 2019
This new series, FROM AN IDEA, features the histories of companies and how they became the billion-dollar companies they are now.
These chapter books are easy to read with illustrations, fun fact boxes, and quotes sprinkled throughout the chapters. I loved reading the history of Walt Disney’s childhood and how he created the empire of Disney we know today. I traveled to Walt Disney World 30+ years ago and again this summer and the difference was amazing. Some things were exactly the same and others were, of course, enhanced by all the new technology that has made rides and experiences even more jaw-dropping.
Some of Walt Disney’s story I knew, but other parts were absolutely fascinating. Mickey (not his original name) Mouse was created while riding on a train across the US with his wife. I was shocked how much was spent to create “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” ($1.5 million) and thankfully, it was a “smashing success, earning $8 million during its initial release in 1937.”
The book not only explains about the specific history of the company but offers definitions for various business terms like “going public” and “shares of stock”. After Walt Disney passed away, kids learn how difficult it can be to hire someone who has the same vision and values as the creator of the company while also having new ideas to grow the company.
I didn’t remember how much Disney struggled through the 1970s to early 1980s. I also had no idea “Frozen” has been the highest-earning animated movie at the box office. Many other secrets and backstories are shared to show kids the vast empire Disney has become. I found myself talking about this book to adults after reading it because Walt Disney had such a fascinating story. I think kids will love this book and learn about perseverance, hard work, and, of course, following their dreams.
These chapter books are easy to read with illustrations, fun fact boxes, and quotes sprinkled throughout the chapters. I loved reading the history of Walt Disney’s childhood and how he created the empire of Disney we know today. I traveled to Walt Disney World 30+ years ago and again this summer and the difference was amazing. Some things were exactly the same and others were, of course, enhanced by all the new technology that has made rides and experiences even more jaw-dropping.
Some of Walt Disney’s story I knew, but other parts were absolutely fascinating. Mickey (not his original name) Mouse was created while riding on a train across the US with his wife. I was shocked how much was spent to create “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” ($1.5 million) and thankfully, it was a “smashing success, earning $8 million during its initial release in 1937.”
The book not only explains about the specific history of the company but offers definitions for various business terms like “going public” and “shares of stock”. After Walt Disney passed away, kids learn how difficult it can be to hire someone who has the same vision and values as the creator of the company while also having new ideas to grow the company.
I didn’t remember how much Disney struggled through the 1970s to early 1980s. I also had no idea “Frozen” has been the highest-earning animated movie at the box office. Many other secrets and backstories are shared to show kids the vast empire Disney has become. I found myself talking about this book to adults after reading it because Walt Disney had such a fascinating story. I think kids will love this book and learn about perseverance, hard work, and, of course, following their dreams.
October 9, 2019
This addition to the "From an Idea to" series revolves around Disney. It discusses the creation of Disney and its brand. The title begins with a brief look at the life and work of Walt Disney and how he created Disney. It then goes on to describe on how the company has evolved and thrived since his death. Key terms are defined in small boxes on the page so the reader does not need to lose the flow of the narrative. This book includes a table of contents, bibliography, timeline, and source notes. This would be recommended purchase for libraries looking to add information on different companies for juvenile readers.
April 30, 2019
From An Idea to Disney: How Imagination Built a World of Magic by Lowey Bundy Sichol, illustrated by C.S. Jennings. 99 pages. NONFICTION. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2019. $16. 9781328453600.
Language: G (0 'F'); Mature content: G; Violence: G
BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH
This is a great nonfiction chapter book for elementary-age readers all about how Disney came to be one of the strongest brands in the world. The story begins with how Walt and Roy began the company and follows it all the way to the present day. There are illustrations and definitions of new words throughout, and big topics like stock prices and market value are even discussed on a level kids can understand. The book includes a timeline, source notes, and a bibliography at the end.
I really enjoyed this book--not only for the information but also for how it was presented. This is a great way to introduce young readers to larger economic concepts and do it in an interesting and fun way. I imagine this book will appeal to young Disney fans, and they'll end up getting a really great financial/business lesson out of it along with fun Disney facts.
Reviewer: TC
https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/20...
Language: G (0 'F'); Mature content: G; Violence: G
BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH
This is a great nonfiction chapter book for elementary-age readers all about how Disney came to be one of the strongest brands in the world. The story begins with how Walt and Roy began the company and follows it all the way to the present day. There are illustrations and definitions of new words throughout, and big topics like stock prices and market value are even discussed on a level kids can understand. The book includes a timeline, source notes, and a bibliography at the end.
I really enjoyed this book--not only for the information but also for how it was presented. This is a great way to introduce young readers to larger economic concepts and do it in an interesting and fun way. I imagine this book will appeal to young Disney fans, and they'll end up getting a really great financial/business lesson out of it along with fun Disney facts.
Reviewer: TC
https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/20...
July 3, 2019
'From an Idea to Disney: How Branding Made Disney a Household Name' by Lowey Bundy Sichol provides the inspirational backdrop to Walt Disney's enduring legacy that readers didn't necessarily know they needed, but will be excited to learn. There are facts about Disney's childhood and the beginning of his career, along with details about how Disneyworld and Disneyland came to be. Fun facts are interspersed throughout the already interesting content in the chapters, and engaging illustrations will capture readers' interest all the more. If you didn't already know about the underground tunnels at Disney parks which cast members who work at the park can use to travel from place to place, or the fact that even street sweepers at the park play a role in the magic that makes Disney so special, this book is for you. Much like the magic of Disney itself, this book is for children and adults alike. Anyone who has ever been fascinated by a character, movie, or ride at one of the Disney parks will want to read this entertaining biography.
Beth Rodgers, Author of 'Freshman Fourteen' and 'Sweet Fifteen,' Young Adult Novels
*Review originally posted at YABooksCentral.com*
Beth Rodgers, Author of 'Freshman Fourteen' and 'Sweet Fifteen,' Young Adult Novels
*Review originally posted at YABooksCentral.com*
February 22, 2019
From an Idea to Disney includes quotes from Walt, fun facts, and definitions and explanations of some of the more complicated concepts surrounding the Disney company, including what it means to offer public stock. The story goes past Walt’s life to include the current state of the corporation. It’s sure to be a hit with young readers who are interested in everything Disney as well as curious about how the world of business works. I recommend it for readers aged 10 to 12.
From an Idea to Disney by Lowey Bundy Sichol provides an interesting look at the story behind the Walt Disney Company, starting with the childhood of its founder. From the time he was young, Walt loved doodling animal cartoons on his classroom chalkboard and performing funny skits in front of his classmates. His journey from young illustrator to Hollywood icon and worldwide recognition included quite a few ups and downs before he found success.
The publisher provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
From an Idea to Disney by Lowey Bundy Sichol provides an interesting look at the story behind the Walt Disney Company, starting with the childhood of its founder. From the time he was young, Walt loved doodling animal cartoons on his classroom chalkboard and performing funny skits in front of his classmates. His journey from young illustrator to Hollywood icon and worldwide recognition included quite a few ups and downs before he found success.
The publisher provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
February 22, 2019
This is a great nonfiction chapter book for elementary-age readers all about how Disney came to be one of the strongest brands in the world. The story begins with how Walt and Roy began the company and follows it all the way to the present day. There are illustrations and definitions of new words throughout, and big topics like stock prices and market value are even discussed on a level kids can understand. The book includes a timeline, source notes, and a bibliography at the end.
I really enjoyed this book--not only for the information but also for how it was presented. This is a great way to introduce young readers to larger economic concepts and do it in an interesting and fun way. I imagine this book will appeal to young Disney fans, and they'll end up getting a really great financial/business lesson out of it along with fun Disney facts.
Review also published at kissthebookjr.blogspot.com
I really enjoyed this book--not only for the information but also for how it was presented. This is a great way to introduce young readers to larger economic concepts and do it in an interesting and fun way. I imagine this book will appeal to young Disney fans, and they'll end up getting a really great financial/business lesson out of it along with fun Disney facts.
Review also published at kissthebookjr.blogspot.com
January 3, 2019
Part of a series of fun facts for children about how ideas are/were made into actions. Disney was a fascinating character with a huge imagination which is all covered in this volume. Unfortunately none of Disney's flaws were highlighted.
February 28, 2019
Part bio, part business history. Solid nonfiction for middle grade readers.
June 19, 2019
This was my first introduction to this series of biographies that have lead to successful businesses. I found the journey of Disney and his corporation very interesting. A neat idea!
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