Welcome to the final “WEDnesdays With Walt” email for 2024!
As we wrap up another magical year, it’s time for my annual “12 Books for Christmas” list. This tradition highlights a mix of Disney-related reads and motivational/inspirational books to keep you dreaming, growing, and achieving in the new year.
Here’s the 2024 lineup. Enjoy, and I’ll see you again on Wednesday, January 8, 2025!
Disney Picks
- Dream Chasing: Four Decades of Walt Disney Imagineeringby Bob Weis A fascinating memoir from the former president of Walt Disney Imagineering filled with behind-the-scenes stories and lessons from his incredible career creating Disney magic. I loved this book, especially the stories from the international parks.
- The Disney Revolt: The Great Labor War of Animation’s Golden Ageby Jake S. Friedman An eye-opening look at the pivotal labor strike that shaped the future of Disney animation and impacted the entire entertainment industry. I ignored this subject for far too long and couldn’t put this one down after I finally started reading it!
- Disney High: The Untold Story of the Rise and Fall of Disney Channel’s Tween Empireby Ashley Spencer An in-depth exploration of Disney Channel’s golden era, revealing behind-the-scenes stories of the shows and stars that defined a generation. If you were impacted by the Disney Channel in the ’80s, ’90s, and beyond, then you are going to LOVE this book!
- Drawn to Greatness: Disney’s Animation Renaissance by Michael Lyons An insightful chronicle of Disney’s animation resurgence in the 1990s, featuring interviews with key figures behind classics likeThe Little Mermaid and The Lion King. A must have for the fans of Disney films and animation!
- How Does Disney Do That?by James Warda A delightful exploration of Disney’s unique storytelling and creative processes, offering lessons on how to bring a bit of Disney magic into your own life. James is a true Disney fan who writes from the perspective of a guest who appreciates the influence Disney’s magic can have on all of us.
- Walt Disney Treasures: Personal Art and Artifacts from The Walt Disney Family MuseumA curated collection of personal items, artwork, and stories from Walt Disney’s life, providing an intimate look into his creative legacy. I had the opportunity to tour the Family Museum again in August—a must visit, and this is a must read!
- Bring the Magic Home: An Exploration of Design Inspired by Disney ParksA practical guide to incorporating Disney-inspired design elements into your everyday spaces. If you want to improve your surrounding spaces Disney-style, then this is the inspiration you need!
- Disneyland: Pop-Up Park Tourby Matthew Reinhart This stunning interactive book brings Disneyland to life through intricate pop-up art. I love pop-up books. So much so that I offered to write my doctoral dissertation as a pop up (I was denied). What a fun idea!
- Disney: Cooking With Magic: A Century of Recipes From churros to Dole Whip, this cookbook lets you bring your favorite Disney park treats into your kitchen. If you need a recipe book for a Disney food fan, this is the one!
Motivational/Inspirational Picks
10. Worthy: Unlocking the Power of Knowing Who You Are by Jamie Kern Lima Earlier this year, it seemed like everyone was reading this book. And for good reason. This is the best book I’ve ever read on overcoming self-doubt, embracing your self-worth, and unlocking the confidence to achieve your dreams. Highly recommended!
11. The Tools: 5 Tools to Help You Find Courage, Creativity, and Willpower by Phil Stutz A practical and life-changing book offering actionable tools to break through challenges and unlock your potential, written by a renowned psychiatrist. You will love the real-life examples and practical steps for improving your mental health and achieving your life-long dreams and goals.
12. The Let Them Theory: A Life-Changing Tool That Millions of People Can’t Stop Talking About by Mel Robbins Set to release on December 24, 2024, this book introduces a transformative mindset shift, teaching you to let go of control over others and focus on your own growth and happiness. I’ve heard Mel talk about the “Let Them Theory” and she is 100 percent right. I can’t wait to read this book!
Closing Thoughts
This year’s list is packed with stories of creativity, resilience, and inspiration. Whether you’re a Disney fan, a dreamer, or someone looking to grow in the new year, I hope you find a book (or twelve!) that speaks to you.
What’s on your reading list for 2025? Let me know—I love hearing your recommendations! Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and as always, Never Stop Dreaming,
Jeff and Lyndsey