I love collecting books about Disney Parks. You may recall previous Disney Parks Blog articles about two recent favorites – Poster Art of the Disney Parks and the Magic Kingdom Storybook. Today, I’m adding another book to my “favorite” column – a children’s book about the Haunted Mansion attraction. This book is part of a new series from Disney Publishing called “Disney Parks Presents.” I recently spoke with Eric Geron, Associate Editor with Disney Publishing, about this new series that he dreamed up.
“Disney Parks Presents is a series of picture books with CDs and original artwork based on beloved Disney Parks rides and attractions,” explained Eric. “The books are a fantastic way for readers to relive classic Disney attractions from the comfort of their own homes or to experience them for the very first time.”
The Haunted Mansion is the first Disney Parks attraction featured in the Disney Parks Presents series. On the inside cover, readers will find a CD containing a uniquely created 5-minute and 32-second musical tour through the attraction. The track includes the classic “Grim Grinning Ghosts” song by Buddy Baker and Xavier Atencio that inspired the book.
Illustrations for the 32 page book were created by James Gilleard, an artist from London, England. Eric said the art department loved his “retro, cool vibe” that complemented the overall silly and spooky tone of the book.
I selected a handful of illustrations I love for the image above. The clock striking 13 is one of my favorite attraction scenes, so I was glad to see it included. I was also delighted to find the Hatbox Ghost on one of the pages.
I asked Eric about his favorite scene in the book.
“I love the scene from the ballroom where the ghost is blowing out birthday cake candles,” replied Eric. “If you look carefully, you’ll even spot a hidden Mickey on the table that’s similar to one seen in the attraction.”
Future “Disney Parks Presents” books will feature attractions such as Pirates of the Caribbean and the world famous Jungle Cruise, each with its own unique art style.
Look for “Disney Parks Presents: The Haunted Mansion” in select merchandise locations this summer at Disney Parks or at other favorite retailers nationwide.
Comments
My book came in the mail today! I want to love it but can’t quite do it. The Gaugted Mansion has been my favorite attraction since my first visit in 1978. I love everything Disney. The pictures in the book are stunning, they really are but I was so disappointed that there was no story. It’s just the song lyrics. Don’t get me wrong I love the song but what happened to the wonderful story that went along with those storyboard drawings?!? I was so excited for this series but this will probably be my last purchase of these books. I was kind of let down.
My 7 year old daughter and I saw this book last week at 2nd & Charles. It is so cute! I plan to get it for Christmas. Can’t wait to see the others in the series. 🙂
My family is currently in WDW Orlando and no cast member seems to know about this book or where I can purchase it, besides Amazon. What stores are carrying them? I can’t wait to get it!
What other books are in the series?
@Kristin – The Haunted Mansion book is the first in the series. Future “Disney Parks Presents” books will feature attractions such as Pirates of the Caribbean and the world famous Jungle Cruise, each with its own unique art style.
LOVE THIS RIDE ALL TIME FAVORITE!
I would love for them to do a Haunted Mansion photo album with this cover or any cover for that matter. I can’t believe they don’t have any HM photo albums. Can you mention this to someone, please ;-).
This is a fantastic idea! My patients will love to read these positive feel good themes! Disney has created a brilliant idea. I can’t wait to order them all for my pediatric practice! A sure pleaser for my parents as well as my patients in the waiting room! Thanks Disney?
@M Nap – Glad to hear! It’s a fun story with wonderful illustrations.
Hi Steven! This is so exciting! I remember having The Haunted Mansion Storybook and Record as a child living in Ohio before we moved to Los Angeles and I experienced it for myself first hand. I also had the viewmaster series. I wore those out! I will buy this to keep in my HM collection, and no doubt take it out once in a while when I get “Lonely” for my spirit friends. Thanks for what you do! Your HM Pal in Ohio, David
@David – I still have the same record. Such wonderful childhood memories 🙂
I can’t wait! I love the attractions but I also love that it is the STORY that makes them perfect!
I just preordered it on Amazon! Thanks for sharing this!
Love this, how much will the book cost?
@Tyler – At Disney Parks, the book will have a retail of $17.99 (plus tax). Please note that all retails are subject to change without notice.
I hope future books in this series will cover the theater show attractions like Country Bear Jamboree and the Enchanted Tiki Room as well.
@Philip – I’m not aware of any additional books besides Pirates of the Caribbean and The Jungle Cruise. There will be a Disney Kingdoms comic book series this fall featuring the Enchanted Tiki Room: https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2016/06/experience-all-new-adventure-in-the-tiki-tiki-tiki-room-this-fall-from-disney-kingdoms/
How exciting! I love this idea! Hopefully, there will be a Haunted Mansion Holiday version of this book too!
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