Reviews

Koenig, a freelance writer and editor, became friendly with many part-time employees of Disneyland in Anaheim. When they joined a major strike in 1984, Koenig was inspired to write this book. Drawing on interviews and extensive research, Koenig describes in detail Walt Disney's plan and the goals for his amusement park; the behind-the-scenes mechanisms of the attractions; the selection, training, and expectations of the employees; the persona of the Disney characters; profiles of guests (both welcome and unwelcome); the tragic accidents that have occurred and the lawsuits that ensued; and the spinoffs throughout the world. Though the lurid details of park mishaps and employee dissatisfaction are of interest to some, there's more here than most visitors would want to know. Even the author comes across as an admirer rather than as someone blowing the cover on the magic of Disney. Most libraries will want to stick with Birnbaum's Disneyland (Hyperion, 1992).-Elizabeth Loftus, Onondaga Cty. P.L., Syracuse, N.Y.