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Team Rodent: How Disney Devours the World
Let's get one thing straight: Carl Hiaasen doesn't like the Walt Disney Company. Whenever the giant entertainment conglomerate stumbles, as it did with its proposed Civil War theme park in Virginia, Hiaasen cheers. When a rhinoceros mysteriously dies at Disney's new theme park, Animal Kingdom, Hiaasen secretly hopes for the worst, because, as he writes, "no scandal is so delectable as a Disney scandal."
A native of Florida, author of such thrillers as Lucky You and Strip Tease, and a journalist for the Miami Herald, Hiaasen comes by his dislike for Disney honestly. He has witnessed the relentless success of the Disney machine firsthand with the development of Disney World and other properties around Orlando. In Team Rodent: How Disney Devours the World, Hiaasen paints a witty and sarcastic portrait in this nonfiction account of a company who can control the press, manipulate local governments, and because it's Disney, get away with it. Team Rodent is a quick, entertaining read that even the most loyal Disney shareholder (except maybe Michael Eisner) will find enlightening and amusing. --Harry C. Edwards
A native of Florida, author of such thrillers as Lucky You and Strip Tease, and a journalist for the Miami Herald, Hiaasen comes by his dislike for Disney honestly. He has witnessed the relentless success of the Disney machine firsthand with the development of Disney World and other properties around Orlando. In Team Rodent: How Disney Devours the World, Hiaasen paints a witty and sarcastic portrait in this nonfiction account of a company who can control the press, manipulate local governments, and because it's Disney, get away with it. Team Rodent is a quick, entertaining read that even the most loyal Disney shareholder (except maybe Michael Eisner) will find enlightening and amusing. --Harry C. Edwards
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First published May 5, 1998
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About the author
Carl Hiaasen
99 books9,903 followersCarl Hiaasen was born and raised in Florida. After graduating from the University of Florida, he joined the Miami Herald as a general assignment reporter and went on to work for the newspaper’s weekly magazine and prize-winning investigations team. As a journalist and author, Carl has spent most of his life advocating for the protection of the Florida Everglades. He and his family live in southern Florida.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 314 reviews
April 25, 2008
Before you spend $9 on this book you need to know that it's less than 100 pages. This is not so much a book but a critical essay. Many Disney lovers have obviously read and reviewed this book and written scathing reviews, you will notice that most of these reviewers live far away from the Disney machine. I grew up in Florida and lived for 4 years of it in Orlando, less than 20 minutes from Disney. Many of my friends worked there, we dealt with the Disney machine on a daily basis.
This essay may seem to be a vicious stab at the wholesome goodness that is Disney, and many who spend their hard earned money on their yearly trip to mouse land will be incensed, outraged at the audacity of Hiaasen to point out that Disney is not the loving arms of your parents, it is a mega-glomorate that is a master of shifting perception and hails above all, the almighty dollar. If you live there then you know the sickening scales that you are forced to live on, you can't truly hate Disney because it employs either directly or indirectly just about everyone you know, but if you live there, you know the truth about what they stand for and it is appalling. Along with the thousands upon thousands of tourist who flock there every year under the delusions that they can behave however they please both on and off Disney property because "They are spending their hard earned money here." They trash our beaches, wreak their cars on our roads while reading maps or screaming at their children, they behave rudely and expect to be waited on by everyone. They load their cars full of trinkets from the roadside stands, harass our wildlife then sue when they get bitten. Yes, Disney turned Florida into what it is today, for better or worse. We Floridians accept that, but it is also nice to have individuals like Hiaasen to point out that the frosty eyed tourists need to wake up and realize that this is a COMPANY out to make MONEY.
Enough about that, Hiaasen does a wonderful job of using typical Florida cynicism to point out what most people in Florida already know, Disney wants your money and they are willing to brainwash your children to get it. Your money WILL end up in their hands eventually. He brings to light the creepy business tactics, the cultish behavior, the third Reich mentality that those of us who have been close enough to smell the beast know is there. Did you know the Tower of Terror fell and killed a bunch of people in the late 90's? Nope? I only know because I knew people who worked there at the time... never even made the papers. Did you know that up until recently no on dies on Disney property? You can be in 7 different pieces but you will not be pronounced dead until off their property.
Back to the book, this is extremely well written, extremely cynical, and certainly not worth $10. Get it from the library or a used bookstore mainly because of how short it is. But it is a great read, I highly recommend it.
This essay may seem to be a vicious stab at the wholesome goodness that is Disney, and many who spend their hard earned money on their yearly trip to mouse land will be incensed, outraged at the audacity of Hiaasen to point out that Disney is not the loving arms of your parents, it is a mega-glomorate that is a master of shifting perception and hails above all, the almighty dollar. If you live there then you know the sickening scales that you are forced to live on, you can't truly hate Disney because it employs either directly or indirectly just about everyone you know, but if you live there, you know the truth about what they stand for and it is appalling. Along with the thousands upon thousands of tourist who flock there every year under the delusions that they can behave however they please both on and off Disney property because "They are spending their hard earned money here." They trash our beaches, wreak their cars on our roads while reading maps or screaming at their children, they behave rudely and expect to be waited on by everyone. They load their cars full of trinkets from the roadside stands, harass our wildlife then sue when they get bitten. Yes, Disney turned Florida into what it is today, for better or worse. We Floridians accept that, but it is also nice to have individuals like Hiaasen to point out that the frosty eyed tourists need to wake up and realize that this is a COMPANY out to make MONEY.
Enough about that, Hiaasen does a wonderful job of using typical Florida cynicism to point out what most people in Florida already know, Disney wants your money and they are willing to brainwash your children to get it. Your money WILL end up in their hands eventually. He brings to light the creepy business tactics, the cultish behavior, the third Reich mentality that those of us who have been close enough to smell the beast know is there. Did you know the Tower of Terror fell and killed a bunch of people in the late 90's? Nope? I only know because I knew people who worked there at the time... never even made the papers. Did you know that up until recently no on dies on Disney property? You can be in 7 different pieces but you will not be pronounced dead until off their property.
Back to the book, this is extremely well written, extremely cynical, and certainly not worth $10. Get it from the library or a used bookstore mainly because of how short it is. But it is a great read, I highly recommend it.
December 21, 2022
After perusing some of the reviews of Carl Hiaasen’s “Team Rodent” here on Goodreads, I have to say: some people need to learn how to take a joke.
Not that Hiaasen was, in any way, joking when he wrote the book. No, it’s quite clear he meant every word.
My gripe is with those who don’t seem to understand exactly what Hiaasen was doing, which is what Hiaasen does in all of his books. Namely, he’s being a smart-ass. Emphasis on the “smart”. And, frankly, if you haven’t figured out Hiaasen by now, you should really just stop reading his books entirely.
“Team Rodent” is Hiaasen’s caustic-but-humorous, tongue-in-cheek castigation of the Walt Disney Corporation.
Take note that it’s the corporation that he is attacking here, not the Imagineers, or the park employees, or the people who make those wonderful movies that we (at least those of us with kids) have had to watch 4,372 times.
Also take note that this book was written in 1998. A lot has changed within Disney Corp. since then, most importantly the changing of the guard from Michael Eisner to Bob Iger as CEO. (Iger recently handed off the reins to Bob Chapek.)
Indeed, Hiaasen spends a lot of the book ripping on and viciously dissecting Eisner, and to anybody familiar with Disney-as-a-business, this vicious dissection is perfectly welcome and appreciated, as Eisner nearly sunk Disney.
That Eisner made some serious mistakes and bad decisions in his latter years as CEO is old history. He’s the guy that nearly ruined the marriage between Disney and Pixar. He’s the guy who dumped billions into an American history-themed amusement park that went nowhere. He’s also the guy responsible for the pile of shit film “Man of the House”. (Okay, to be fair, I doubt he had any input—-creative or otherwise—-in the movie, but it happened under his watch, so shame on him.)
But even given how dated this book is, it’s still a fair assessment of a super-powerful mega corporation that is bent on world domination. Disney is an Empire. Period. And Corporate Empires should be mocked, castigated, criticized, and heavily monitored constantly.
Even ones responsible for wonderful films like “Frozen 2” and TV shows like “The Mandalorian”.
So, don’t be so religiously zealous and pro-Disney that one fails to see what Hiaasen is brilliantly trying to do in this book. Take a chill pill, for God’s sake. Or watch “The Mandalorian”. Seriously, Baby Yoda is adorable and will make you forget all your problems…
Not that Hiaasen was, in any way, joking when he wrote the book. No, it’s quite clear he meant every word.
My gripe is with those who don’t seem to understand exactly what Hiaasen was doing, which is what Hiaasen does in all of his books. Namely, he’s being a smart-ass. Emphasis on the “smart”. And, frankly, if you haven’t figured out Hiaasen by now, you should really just stop reading his books entirely.
“Team Rodent” is Hiaasen’s caustic-but-humorous, tongue-in-cheek castigation of the Walt Disney Corporation.
Take note that it’s the corporation that he is attacking here, not the Imagineers, or the park employees, or the people who make those wonderful movies that we (at least those of us with kids) have had to watch 4,372 times.
Also take note that this book was written in 1998. A lot has changed within Disney Corp. since then, most importantly the changing of the guard from Michael Eisner to Bob Iger as CEO. (Iger recently handed off the reins to Bob Chapek.)
Indeed, Hiaasen spends a lot of the book ripping on and viciously dissecting Eisner, and to anybody familiar with Disney-as-a-business, this vicious dissection is perfectly welcome and appreciated, as Eisner nearly sunk Disney.
That Eisner made some serious mistakes and bad decisions in his latter years as CEO is old history. He’s the guy that nearly ruined the marriage between Disney and Pixar. He’s the guy who dumped billions into an American history-themed amusement park that went nowhere. He’s also the guy responsible for the pile of shit film “Man of the House”. (Okay, to be fair, I doubt he had any input—-creative or otherwise—-in the movie, but it happened under his watch, so shame on him.)
But even given how dated this book is, it’s still a fair assessment of a super-powerful mega corporation that is bent on world domination. Disney is an Empire. Period. And Corporate Empires should be mocked, castigated, criticized, and heavily monitored constantly.
Even ones responsible for wonderful films like “Frozen 2” and TV shows like “The Mandalorian”.
So, don’t be so religiously zealous and pro-Disney that one fails to see what Hiaasen is brilliantly trying to do in this book. Take a chill pill, for God’s sake. Or watch “The Mandalorian”. Seriously, Baby Yoda is adorable and will make you forget all your problems…
April 25, 2022
First this book was published in 1998 and cost $8.95 for 83 pages that is insane (the price not the story)! Ok I read this book as I wanted to know about the Reedy Creek Improvement Distract in Fl as it is referred to as "The Vatican with Mouse Ears". Disney owned this, they have the authority to build an international airport or a nuclear plant. They are empowered to have their own criminal justice (at the time of the book they had not done so). The book really does capture how much power Disney has throughout the world and in the state of Fl. They even own ABC. They helped clean up New York Times Square as it was home to Porn, prostitution and peep shows until Disney opened a store there.
I did not want to read anything currently political about the Reedy Creek District I was just curious how it came to be and Hiaasen as a newspaper reporter wrote this book.
I had enjoyed the Hiaasen book Bad Monkey and so I thought the book about Team Rodent (otherwise known as Disney) would be a good read and it was.
I did not want to read anything currently political about the Reedy Creek District I was just curious how it came to be and Hiaasen as a newspaper reporter wrote this book.
I had enjoyed the Hiaasen book Bad Monkey and so I thought the book about Team Rodent (otherwise known as Disney) would be a good read and it was.
August 22, 2025
From 1998
Disney began in LA (of course) and Disneyland was in California too. But at some point they started silently buying land in Florida. I think we all know what happened.
I was often reminded of Jurassic Park which I recently read. The cruelties man will commit for profit.
I know what 42nd St and Times Square had become in the seventies. It needed to be cleaned up and only big money could do it. So Disney stepped in.
Disney began in LA (of course) and Disneyland was in California too. But at some point they started silently buying land in Florida. I think we all know what happened.
I was often reminded of Jurassic Park which I recently read. The cruelties man will commit for profit.
I know what 42nd St and Times Square had become in the seventies. It needed to be cleaned up and only big money could do it. So Disney stepped in.
December 10, 2008
This thin volume is a very quick read, and it starts off in a romp of well-written vitriol, a veritable salad of $10 words that promise a portrait of Disney that will reveal that company's avaricious and cynical soul.
But the rest of the book fails to fully deliver. Or rather over-delivers, but with misdirecting filler in place of convincing content. Hiassen's contempt for Disney is evident on every page, in nearly every paragraph. Yet too much of the mud he's slinging misses The Mouse and smears itself across other targets. That is to say, most of these tales and anecdotes reveal the ugly avarice of the opportunists who follow where Disney trods, the shallow aesthetic appetites of the common tourist, and the bitter cynicism of Mr. Hiassen himself while leaving Disney's own image only lightly tarnished.
I'm no Disney apologist — much of their behavior has been reprehensible. But many of the stories told here — cf. Dalmatians, black rhino — create a feeling that Disney was involved in something shameful when the reality, by Hiassen's own admission, leaves them almost completely blameless. So why bring them up? To fluff out a medium-sized article into a very thin book is my guess.
But the rest of the book fails to fully deliver. Or rather over-delivers, but with misdirecting filler in place of convincing content. Hiassen's contempt for Disney is evident on every page, in nearly every paragraph. Yet too much of the mud he's slinging misses The Mouse and smears itself across other targets. That is to say, most of these tales and anecdotes reveal the ugly avarice of the opportunists who follow where Disney trods, the shallow aesthetic appetites of the common tourist, and the bitter cynicism of Mr. Hiassen himself while leaving Disney's own image only lightly tarnished.
I'm no Disney apologist — much of their behavior has been reprehensible. But many of the stories told here — cf. Dalmatians, black rhino — create a feeling that Disney was involved in something shameful when the reality, by Hiassen's own admission, leaves them almost completely blameless. So why bring them up? To fluff out a medium-sized article into a very thin book is my guess.
December 26, 2012
Carl Hiaasen said his dream is to be banned from Disney... For LIFE. Let's go, Carl. I'll buy the tickets and we can be banished from that hellish place FOREVER!
Excellent read on the evils of Disney.
Excellent read on the evils of Disney.
May 6, 2011
We had a great family trip to Disney World. After a really good time in the sticky sweet world of Disney, I came back wanting to cleanse my palate with some pure bile. Thanks, Carl Hiaasen.
December 3, 2017
A collection of essays dedicated to why Carl Hiaasen thinks Disney is evil. He basically points out some darker bits in Disney past but considering this book is so short. I'd say that Disney's goodness, far outweighs any bad things it may have done.
Carl is not a Disney fan. He hates what they've done to Florida. I mean they've only made it one of best destinations in the world but whatever. He hates Disney. He thinks they are trying to erase reality, which they are but only in the parks, which is why so many people flock there!
I didn't really like this book. I have no problem reading about the darker side of Disney when it's not maliciously written. Realityland by David Koenig is an excellent book about the reality of Disney, one I really enjoyed. I would recommend reading that book over this one! It's saving grace is that it's short so if you are curious, it won't take up much of your time.
Carl is not a Disney fan. He hates what they've done to Florida. I mean they've only made it one of best destinations in the world but whatever. He hates Disney. He thinks they are trying to erase reality, which they are but only in the parks, which is why so many people flock there!
I didn't really like this book. I have no problem reading about the darker side of Disney when it's not maliciously written. Realityland by David Koenig is an excellent book about the reality of Disney, one I really enjoyed. I would recommend reading that book over this one! It's saving grace is that it's short so if you are curious, it won't take up much of your time.
November 12, 2018
Good info, embarrassingly overwritten.
December 14, 2023
Laced with vitriol, and interspersed with dollops of morbid wit, award winning investigative reporter Carl Hiaasen’s book, nay, tract, is a polemical and personal vindication of one the world’s largest stand-alone entertainment corporates. Vacillating in that cramped space between a book and a brochure, Hiaasen’s slim work at times reads more like a personal vengeance towards Disney than a rebuke of the company’s proven misdemeanours.
However, this is not to say that “Team Rodent” (a wicked reference to the rampant spread of the Disney image globally), the book is totally bereft of facts and substance. It sure has its moments. Under the stewardship of Michael Eisner, scathingly referred to as “Insane Clown Michael” repeatedly by Hiaasen (an ode to a monumental blunder made by Disney in releasing an expletive laced music album titled The Great Milenko made by a band called Insane Clown Posse), Disney, according to the author has been operating in a ham fisted and brute manner in furthering its prospects.
Whether it be turning a blind eye to controversies of voyeurism within the company or a sweeping acquisition of hundreds and thousands of acres of land that involves draining of lakes and threatening the ecology, Disney according to Hiaasen virtually has a free hand to do as it pleases. Possessing the power to influence politicians, law enforcement agencies and even the lower rungs of the judiciary, Disney is the beneficiary of a plethora of favours.
However, at times even Goliaths of the likes of Disney is humbled by the occasional David. A case in point the failed bid to develop a three-thousand-acre sprawl that was in close proximity to the Manassas National Battlefield. Despite the cries of Virginians who viewed such a development as transcending mere encroachment and coming dangerously close to the boundaries of desecration, Disney was set in its motives and intentions. “If the people think we will back off, they are mistaken.” Eisner stated with more than just a measure of confidence. However, the will of the people prevailed, and the proposed $160 million project was ultimately abandoned.
Similarly, the gut-wrenching story of a young rhino that was found dead under mysterious circumstances with a lethal stick found wedged deep into the animal’s rear end. Even though it was ultimately proved that the offending object was found inside the rhino before it was transported into Disney, there were more discomforting questions than answers.
“Team Rodent” is a short exercise in anger, focusing more on an execrable periphery than plunging into the core of and for the truth.
However, this is not to say that “Team Rodent” (a wicked reference to the rampant spread of the Disney image globally), the book is totally bereft of facts and substance. It sure has its moments. Under the stewardship of Michael Eisner, scathingly referred to as “Insane Clown Michael” repeatedly by Hiaasen (an ode to a monumental blunder made by Disney in releasing an expletive laced music album titled The Great Milenko made by a band called Insane Clown Posse), Disney, according to the author has been operating in a ham fisted and brute manner in furthering its prospects.
Whether it be turning a blind eye to controversies of voyeurism within the company or a sweeping acquisition of hundreds and thousands of acres of land that involves draining of lakes and threatening the ecology, Disney according to Hiaasen virtually has a free hand to do as it pleases. Possessing the power to influence politicians, law enforcement agencies and even the lower rungs of the judiciary, Disney is the beneficiary of a plethora of favours.
However, at times even Goliaths of the likes of Disney is humbled by the occasional David. A case in point the failed bid to develop a three-thousand-acre sprawl that was in close proximity to the Manassas National Battlefield. Despite the cries of Virginians who viewed such a development as transcending mere encroachment and coming dangerously close to the boundaries of desecration, Disney was set in its motives and intentions. “If the people think we will back off, they are mistaken.” Eisner stated with more than just a measure of confidence. However, the will of the people prevailed, and the proposed $160 million project was ultimately abandoned.
Similarly, the gut-wrenching story of a young rhino that was found dead under mysterious circumstances with a lethal stick found wedged deep into the animal’s rear end. Even though it was ultimately proved that the offending object was found inside the rhino before it was transported into Disney, there were more discomforting questions than answers.
“Team Rodent” is a short exercise in anger, focusing more on an execrable periphery than plunging into the core of and for the truth.
November 13, 2011
Okay.
I have a feeling that my opinion on this book won't be a popular one among many of my fellow Floridians. But I really did not agree with most of what Hiaasen had to say in this book. I think it's because I am not a native to Florida and I still consider myself a West Virginian. A West Virginian who tried desperately for six months to get a job after graduating college in her home state only to have to move to Florida because there are NO opportunities in WV. Maybe I'm a bit jaded.
This book pissed me off so much that I took notes. Hold on let me get them.
Okay, first: There is a bunch of ugly nasty sprawl around Disney. The author blames this on Disney world itself, because if Disney weren't there then the sprawl wouldn't be there. Now. While this is true on the most basic level, the blame for all of the sprawl really lies in the City of Orlando. I am a Landscape Architect, I read boring, city code all the damn day long. hi ho hi ho. If Orlando didn't want sprawl they could have stopped it. Notice there isn't any sprawl inside of Disney property... they used smart development practices. Same principle with the Lion that was loose from an outside "zoo." The author blames Disney? It didn't come from Animal Kingdom.
Okay next are the Dalmatians. Duh. That's all. If you don't want a Dog, don't buy a Puppy. Somehow this is Disney's fault. I guess they shouldn't make any movies about anything because consumers can't be held responsible for there actions.
The last thing I'm going to complain about is Gorda Cay. The author says that its all fake now and that back in the day it used to be a beautiful "real" island. So real in fact that it was a huge stop for drug smuggling. Is that better than a stop by a Disney Cruise? I don't get it. Bring on the Drugs!!!???
But on the other hand, I do understand why Floridians are frustrated with tourists. I understand how they destroy things and make the traffic terrible and all of that. I just thought some of the points in this book were a bit ridiculous.
I have a feeling that my opinion on this book won't be a popular one among many of my fellow Floridians. But I really did not agree with most of what Hiaasen had to say in this book. I think it's because I am not a native to Florida and I still consider myself a West Virginian. A West Virginian who tried desperately for six months to get a job after graduating college in her home state only to have to move to Florida because there are NO opportunities in WV. Maybe I'm a bit jaded.
This book pissed me off so much that I took notes. Hold on let me get them.
Okay, first: There is a bunch of ugly nasty sprawl around Disney. The author blames this on Disney world itself, because if Disney weren't there then the sprawl wouldn't be there. Now. While this is true on the most basic level, the blame for all of the sprawl really lies in the City of Orlando. I am a Landscape Architect, I read boring, city code all the damn day long. hi ho hi ho. If Orlando didn't want sprawl they could have stopped it. Notice there isn't any sprawl inside of Disney property... they used smart development practices. Same principle with the Lion that was loose from an outside "zoo." The author blames Disney? It didn't come from Animal Kingdom.
Okay next are the Dalmatians. Duh. That's all. If you don't want a Dog, don't buy a Puppy. Somehow this is Disney's fault. I guess they shouldn't make any movies about anything because consumers can't be held responsible for there actions.
The last thing I'm going to complain about is Gorda Cay. The author says that its all fake now and that back in the day it used to be a beautiful "real" island. So real in fact that it was a huge stop for drug smuggling. Is that better than a stop by a Disney Cruise? I don't get it. Bring on the Drugs!!!???
But on the other hand, I do understand why Floridians are frustrated with tourists. I understand how they destroy things and make the traffic terrible and all of that. I just thought some of the points in this book were a bit ridiculous.
November 18, 2021
I went to Disney once when I was 5 with my grandparents and cousins. I was the worst kid to bring along. Terrified of all the rides. Unwilling to do anything but buy pins. I just wasn’t as “into it” as the rest of my family, who are huge Disney fans. Oh well.
I now have a 3 year old and the discussion of if/when we will take her to Disney has come up a couple times. That’s still up in the air. We aren’t a huge Disney fandom household, but we do enjoy Cars and Monster’s Inc..and we have a lot of Mickey Mouse hand me down clothing. I mean what’s up with that??
Anyways.
In my quest to read all of Hiaasen’s books, I picked this up. Although written a while ago, it was still interesting to hear his opinions on Disney as a resident of Florida. Disney is a massive, massive company that just keeps growing. It’s fascinating. I really enjoy Hiaasen’s writing style and this essay was another enjoyable, quick read by him.
I do know one day I’ll be introducing my daughter to his work.
I now have a 3 year old and the discussion of if/when we will take her to Disney has come up a couple times. That’s still up in the air. We aren’t a huge Disney fandom household, but we do enjoy Cars and Monster’s Inc..and we have a lot of Mickey Mouse hand me down clothing. I mean what’s up with that??
Anyways.
In my quest to read all of Hiaasen’s books, I picked this up. Although written a while ago, it was still interesting to hear his opinions on Disney as a resident of Florida. Disney is a massive, massive company that just keeps growing. It’s fascinating. I really enjoy Hiaasen’s writing style and this essay was another enjoyable, quick read by him.
I do know one day I’ll be introducing my daughter to his work.
November 2, 2025
Carl Hiassen is angry. This should not come as a surprise to anyone who has read any of his delightful books, which seemingly give him an outlet for his native Floridian frustration at the outside forces ruining his state.
Disney, however, earned a non-fiction response from this reporter. While Hiassen admittedly indulges in some fantasy, the bulk of the book is a spotlight on some grubby details of how Disney maintains its family-friendly, squeaky-clean image, and the cost to the state of Florida itself.
Published in 1998, the book is out-of-date. Everything in it is still relevant, mind you, but there have been 27 years of Team Rodent antics since then, and I would love for Hiassen to tell me about them as well.
Bottom line, four stars for good writing, and for making the effort to show the backside of the world's beloved sweetheart. Keep it up, Carl.
Disney, however, earned a non-fiction response from this reporter. While Hiassen admittedly indulges in some fantasy, the bulk of the book is a spotlight on some grubby details of how Disney maintains its family-friendly, squeaky-clean image, and the cost to the state of Florida itself.
Published in 1998, the book is out-of-date. Everything in it is still relevant, mind you, but there have been 27 years of Team Rodent antics since then, and I would love for Hiassen to tell me about them as well.
Bottom line, four stars for good writing, and for making the effort to show the backside of the world's beloved sweetheart. Keep it up, Carl.
August 18, 2008
Carl Hiaasen has a chip on his shoulder - an obsessive hatred of the Disney Corporation. As far as I can tell he hates Disney because they have a strong brand and are successful. I was expecting this book to reveal a lot of shocking dirt on Disney. While there are certainly instances in the books where Disney acted arrogantly or where their actions led to some bad consequences for people, there is nothing too surprising. It seems like Disney is actually pretty well behaved as far as corporations go. From this book it seems to me that Disney is much like every other Multi-national corporation. I suppose that Hiassen singles them out because of their image and he dislikes the way they operate in Florida.
For all I know the Disney Corporation is evil, but Carl Hiaasen has not done a very good job of proving it. But let's face it , the author seems more concerned with being funny than with making a convincing argument. While there are a few laughs in the book, it not a great work of humor.
For all I know the Disney Corporation is evil, but Carl Hiaasen has not done a very good job of proving it. But let's face it , the author seems more concerned with being funny than with making a convincing argument. While there are a few laughs in the book, it not a great work of humor.
September 16, 2011
I found this book disappointing. It was really too short to be a book, too long to be an essay, and it also couldn't decide between being nonfiction reporting and a personal essay in style. I like Carl Hiassen and I'm interested in his work as a journalist, most of which I haven't read, but I had hoped this book would deliver much more in the way of inside dish on the evils of the Disney empire. I did learn some about how the company bought politicians and weaseled out of responsibility for its hurricane-unready housing ventures. At least it was so short it only took an hour of my time.
July 10, 2008
This book is incredible, and forever changed by mind about the Disney machine. While some may laugh about a class in the Sociology of Disney, and blow it off as cake, I learned much about this and other American corporations that come off as "friend brands." A very short book, I highly recommend that everyone swayed by the Disney Marketing agenda read this and see the lives behind the scenes...and the amazing writing doesn't hurt.
July 1, 2018
Gosh this book is old. Disney and Orlando change so quickly that the age of the book seems highlighted.
Although I don’t disagree with a lot of what this book is saying, it is a bit ridiculous to have a go at a company for acting in the most profitable way.
I can understand why the author feels the way they do about Disney as they live in Florida. It has pretty much taken over the state.
However, I love Disney and the Disney brand will never be defeated.
Although I don’t disagree with a lot of what this book is saying, it is a bit ridiculous to have a go at a company for acting in the most profitable way.
I can understand why the author feels the way they do about Disney as they live in Florida. It has pretty much taken over the state.
However, I love Disney and the Disney brand will never be defeated.
December 15, 2023
fairly interesting! I picked this book from a completely random shelf for our reading challenge and honestly it wasn’t bad. there wasn’t too much of a story, more individual chapters about aspects of disney that are loosely woven together. I do feel like i got a sense for disney at the time, but this was 25 years ago. I’d love to get an updated version talking about all that’s happened since
January 5, 2026
huh pretty creepy how disney has so much power! agree w my friend catherine who wants an updated version. feel like they own even more now 👀
UPDATE: my informant tells me ron desantis has changed disney’s powers in his war on disney!!! their power has changed, and they no longer have the same governmental powers…… maybe i’ll seek out some updated material about the power of disney’s empire
rating: 2.5 i guess? feeling generous so i’ll round up
UPDATE: my informant tells me ron desantis has changed disney’s powers in his war on disney!!! their power has changed, and they no longer have the same governmental powers…… maybe i’ll seek out some updated material about the power of disney’s empire
rating: 2.5 i guess? feeling generous so i’ll round up
March 21, 2012
This book starts out whining about how Disney brings in more tourists to the Florida Keys.
"High on the list [of tourists there to visit Disney] is the southernmost chain of islands known as the Keys, where I live, and where only one road runs the length of the archipelago. Maybe you can appreciate the concern." p. 6
Then, at the end, he says that,
"Chamber-of-commerce types in Key West got ticked off recently when Disney World unveiled its own quaint version of America’s southernmost city, a half day’s drive from the real thing. Granted, Disney’s version of old Key West is cleaner, safer, and less margarita-sotted than the place after which it’s modeled. Yet there’s an element of insult – not to mention hard-hearted arrogance – in erecting a replica gingerbread town to compete with the original for tourists. I don’t mind, because it means fewer rental cars speeding past my house, but a business owner in Key West might feel differently." p. 79-80
Personally, I find it hard to believe that anyone interested in visiting the Florida Keys is going to be dissuaded from visiting them by Disney's Old Key West, which is nothing more than a themed Timeshare resort.
The fact is, Florida tourism was a growing industry all through the 1960's, long before Walt Disney World opened in 1971. Tourism in all the states along the Gulf grew rapidly through the second half of the 20th century. So did the population, both in numbers and as a percentage of the U.S. Population. When I was born, in 1960, more than half the population lived in the Midwest or Northeast. Now, only 39 percent live there; the population has shifted strongly to the south and west. Disney isn't to blame for the growth in Texas and Arizona; blame Willis Haviland Carrier, the inventor of the modern air conditioner.
Hiaasen also condemns Disney for the ugliness of the areas surrounding it, while recognizing that the grounds Disney controls are "a verdant sanctuary." But outside of Disney, people have the option of changing local ordinances; any one who has come into WDW from a couple of different directions, or even just from the various roads crossing I-4, can tell that some of the surrounding communities don't allow much of any signage, while others are in full tourist trap mode. So why blame Disney for the ugly ones?
The whole book is like that -- lots of whining about Disney, grounded in not much. Then again, although Hiaasen is preaching to the choir, he's a good enough writer to make it an entertaining sermon.
"High on the list [of tourists there to visit Disney] is the southernmost chain of islands known as the Keys, where I live, and where only one road runs the length of the archipelago. Maybe you can appreciate the concern." p. 6
Then, at the end, he says that,
"Chamber-of-commerce types in Key West got ticked off recently when Disney World unveiled its own quaint version of America’s southernmost city, a half day’s drive from the real thing. Granted, Disney’s version of old Key West is cleaner, safer, and less margarita-sotted than the place after which it’s modeled. Yet there’s an element of insult – not to mention hard-hearted arrogance – in erecting a replica gingerbread town to compete with the original for tourists. I don’t mind, because it means fewer rental cars speeding past my house, but a business owner in Key West might feel differently." p. 79-80
Personally, I find it hard to believe that anyone interested in visiting the Florida Keys is going to be dissuaded from visiting them by Disney's Old Key West, which is nothing more than a themed Timeshare resort.
The fact is, Florida tourism was a growing industry all through the 1960's, long before Walt Disney World opened in 1971. Tourism in all the states along the Gulf grew rapidly through the second half of the 20th century. So did the population, both in numbers and as a percentage of the U.S. Population. When I was born, in 1960, more than half the population lived in the Midwest or Northeast. Now, only 39 percent live there; the population has shifted strongly to the south and west. Disney isn't to blame for the growth in Texas and Arizona; blame Willis Haviland Carrier, the inventor of the modern air conditioner.
Hiaasen also condemns Disney for the ugliness of the areas surrounding it, while recognizing that the grounds Disney controls are "a verdant sanctuary." But outside of Disney, people have the option of changing local ordinances; any one who has come into WDW from a couple of different directions, or even just from the various roads crossing I-4, can tell that some of the surrounding communities don't allow much of any signage, while others are in full tourist trap mode. So why blame Disney for the ugly ones?
The whole book is like that -- lots of whining about Disney, grounded in not much. Then again, although Hiaasen is preaching to the choir, he's a good enough writer to make it an entertaining sermon.
November 20, 2017
Interesting essays detailing some unknown (and not very admirable) facts about the Disney Company. With chapters such as Ready to Drop, Insane Clown Michael, Bull Run, Republic of Walt, The Puppy King, Fantasy Fantasy Island, Future World, Whistle While You Work, and Jungle Book the author discusses the incredible influence in the local Florida area with all the mega development, excessive power, scandal cover-ups, etc. Although the author does occasionally refer to primary source material (Orlando Sentinel, etc.) there is no Table of Contents, Index, and no foot or end notes.
January 29, 2020
COUCH FACTOR (1-5): 🛋️🛋️🛋️
A mediocre work of cutting editorial journalism. As it stands, Team Rodent by Carl Hiaasen is an 80-page rant against Disney.
The vitriol drips from the pages.
If you don't like big corporations, like Disney, you'll probably like this.
When I finished, I wanted another 100 pages to round out the argument. I suppose that is too much to ask from the Library of Contemporary Thought and from the author of gems like Strip Tease (Yes, I know Hiaasen is an excellent journalist; I just think he dropped the ball.)
A mediocre work of cutting editorial journalism. As it stands, Team Rodent by Carl Hiaasen is an 80-page rant against Disney.
The vitriol drips from the pages.
If you don't like big corporations, like Disney, you'll probably like this.
When I finished, I wanted another 100 pages to round out the argument. I suppose that is too much to ask from the Library of Contemporary Thought and from the author of gems like Strip Tease (Yes, I know Hiaasen is an excellent journalist; I just think he dropped the ball.)
November 27, 2023
I needed a book with a rodent on the cover for a challenge, or I never would have picked this up. This is definitely a POV and story that don't age well. And I'm surprised by this famous author - so many lines in this story seemed like just an opportunity to saw naughty words in a book. And it seemed so odd so blame so many things on a 'great big mean mouse' like he's a boogeyman, trying to take away your fun. If you don't like Disney, but all means, don't support them. But stop thinking every bad thing that's happened in the world can be laid at their door.
October 28, 2019
Let me start by saying I am not a die hard fan of Disney. I certainly understand that any organization that has grown to the size it has must have some secrets. In this book the author explores some of this, like the town that Disney quasi owns, to the land deals and also how they use the press to their advantage.
I liked it but this is not for die hard Disney fans.
I liked it but this is not for die hard Disney fans.
September 30, 2020
I like my World sanitized and organized, and this book did not change my mind. However, it is good to be reminded that fantasy should not be permanent, and too much is unhealthy. Hiassen does a good job of hi-lighting the realities behind the fantasy of Disney, without sounding too bitter (wink, wink).
December 18, 2017
Loved this book! I read it when I first moved to Jacksonville Florida. I was always enraptured by "Disney Magic" and this short book by a real Florida journalist and novelist is an engaging expose to the dark side of Disney. How they have set up their incredible infrastructure and how they remove the bodies etc.
November 7, 2019
Interesting read
January 13, 2021
I have never read a book that spewed so much hatred towards an entity. One that happens to be Disney. The negativity that pours out of their book is overwhelming. He barely comes up for air in his constant rant.
Yes, as a Disney fanatic, I may be biased BUT he does not provide anything earth shattering that convinces me that Disney is the evil empire that he claims it to be. His examples are no different than what can be said of any huge global corporation. Of course their goal is to take our money. Of course the magic that they provide is fake. Of course there are questionable people that run the business. Name a company that isn’t like this?
His examples are weak and he just comes off as a bitter, negative person who cannot let go and just enjoy life. I honestly don’t know who he hates more, the people running Disney or the people who go spend time and money at Disney.
Yes, as a Disney fanatic, I may be biased BUT he does not provide anything earth shattering that convinces me that Disney is the evil empire that he claims it to be. His examples are no different than what can be said of any huge global corporation. Of course their goal is to take our money. Of course the magic that they provide is fake. Of course there are questionable people that run the business. Name a company that isn’t like this?
His examples are weak and he just comes off as a bitter, negative person who cannot let go and just enjoy life. I honestly don’t know who he hates more, the people running Disney or the people who go spend time and money at Disney.
October 9, 2021
This was a short but very entertaining essay on Disney, the Corporation, not a critique of the parks or movies. I found it very informative.
October 21, 2023
Book was fine, but I really enjoyed the cheese picture below each chapter name. Added some charm.
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