Why did I write The Hidden Magic of Walt Disney World?
My first trip to Walt Disney World was in 1971, and while it left
an impression, it wasn't until my second visit that 'the magic' really took hold. Sitting comfortably in the Living
Seas at EPCOT Center watching a movie about how the oceans were created, I was settled in for what I thought was going to
be an interesting documentary. Suddenly, the movie ended and a set of doors opened with a satisfying 'whoosh'! And
there, waiting on the other side of the doors, were the Sea Cabs, which would transport us to the heart of the Living Seas.
I couldn't believe it! There was more to this than a movie?
That moment began my passion for finding 'the magic': small details, backstories, and hidden gems
that comprise the all-encompasing world Walt Disney and the Imagineers created with such care and attention.
Some were easy to find, such as the talking trash cans and water fountains.
Some details were easy to see, but their meaning was elusive. And some were a grand "Ah-ha!" moment, totally
unexpected and thrilling to discover!
During
a visit to Walt Disney World with my brother, who was not a die-hard Disney fan, we wandered the parks talking
about all the hidden Imagineer signatures, clever thematic touches, and engaging backstories, which showed him the World
in a new way. He sent me an email later, thanking me for a wonderful visit, then said, "Everyone should see the parks
this way." I agreed.
Join me in visiting 'The
Happiest Place on Earth' with a whole new perspective, through The Hidden Magic of Walt Disney World.
The millions of people who visit the creative wonderland that is Walt Disney World rush from attraction to attraction, but
they don’t see much of what is in between. And what is in between is the hidden magic of Walt Disney World,
a magnificent array of often-overlooked details and story-enhancing touches that make Disney shows and attractions the best
in the world.