Wednesday, October 26, 2016

Disney Theme Parks Presents: The Haunted Mansion / Book Review


Written by: Xavier Atencio

Illustrated by: James Gilleard
Music by: Buddy Baker
Published: Disney Press
Series: Disney Parks Presents 
Released on: July 5th, 2016
Ages: 3 & up
Purchase from: Disney | Amazon 
Add it to Goodreads
Rating: 5 Owlets - We Loved It!
A copy of this book was received from the publisher in exchange for my honest review

The song “Grim Grinning Ghosts,” composed in the late 1960s, continues to reside in the dark corridors and spooky cemetery of the Haunted Mansion. Millions of guests leave the mansion with not only a hitchhiking ghost but also this jaunty tune catching a ride all the way home. In this hardcover jacketed picture book, James Gilleard’s shadowy, textured illustrations accompany the lyrics of the classic song, and together they take readers on a guided tour deeper and deeper into the mansion, from the portrait gallery and seance room to the grand hall, the creepy attic, and more. This charming picture book including a CD featuring the song “Grim Grinning Ghosts” is the first of the Disney Parks Presents picture books.


Whether you're a long time Disney Park fan, or looking for a spooktacular Halloween read, this is a book worth picking up! 


The Haunted Mansion is not only a fanatic picture book, the story itself is the lyrics from popular theme park ride. This book takes readers deeper into the Haunted Mansion, giving Disney Theme Park fans a deeper look into one of it's most popular rides, and given those who haven't yet visited it, a great introduction to it. Trust me, if you haven't checked out this ride yet, this picture book is the next best thing. 


This book's illustrations are to die for.... at least the ghosts from this book may think so. The illustrations are exactly what I would except from a Disney picture book. It's the perfect mix of fun, and kid friendly spookiness that compliments the ride perfectly. 


The book also comes with a cd featuring the song, "Grim Grinning Ghosts". This is song is one featured on the theme park ride. Be warned, once you listen to the cd, you won't be able to get the catchy tune/song out of your head.


The Haunted Mansion is a book worth picking up! Especially during this Halloween season.  I'm looking forward to seeing which theme park ride will be featured next in this series. 


I would be most content if my children grew up to be the kind of people who think decorating consists mostly of building enough bookshelves. ~ Anna Quindlen

Good children's literature appeals not only to
the child in the adult, but to the adult in the child.
~ Anonymous ~