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Ordinary People Change the World
I am Walt Disney
The 18th picture book in the New York Times bestselling series of biographies about heroes tells the story of Walt Disney, who made dreams come true.
This friendly, fun biography series focuses on the traits that made our heroes great--the traits that kids can aspire to in order to live heroically themselves. Each book tells the story of one of America's icons in a lively, conversational way that works well for the youngest nonfiction readers and that always includes the hero's childhood influences. At the back are an excellent timeline and photos. This volume features Walt Disney, who makes dreams come true for himself and countless kids around the world.
This friendly, fun biography series focuses on the traits that made our heroes great--the traits that kids can aspire to in order to live heroically themselves. Each book tells the story of one of America's icons in a lively, conversational way that works well for the youngest nonfiction readers and that always includes the hero's childhood influences. At the back are an excellent timeline and photos. This volume features Walt Disney, who makes dreams come true for himself and countless kids around the world.
40 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2019
8 people are currently reading
365 people want to read
About the author
Brad Meltzer
386 books7,501 followersBrad Meltzer is the Emmy-nominated, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Lightning Rod, The Escape Artist, and eleven other bestselling thrillers. He also writes non-fiction books like The JFK Conspiracy, about a secret plot to kill JFK before he was sworn in – and the Ordinary People Change the World kids book series, which he does with Chris Eliopoulos and inspired the PBS KIDS TV show, Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum. His newest kids books are We are the Beatles, We are the Beatles, and I am Simone Biles. His newest inspirational book is Make Magic, based on his viral commencement address.
In addition to his fiction, Brad is one of the only authors to ever have books on the bestseller list for Non-Fiction (The Nazi Conspiracy), Advice (Heroes for My Son and Heroes for My Daughter), Children’s Books (I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln) and even comic books (Justice League of America), for which he won the prestigious Eisner Award.
He is also the host of Brad Meltzer’s Lost History and Brad Meltzer’s Decoded on the History Channel, and is responsible for helping find the missing 9/11 flag that the firefighters raised at Ground Zero, making national news on the 15th anniversary of 9/11. Meltzer unveiled the flag at the 9/11 Museum in New York, where it is now on display. See the video here. The Hollywood Reporter recently put him on their list of Hollywood’s 25 Most Powerful Authors.
He also recently delivered the commencement address at the University of Michigan, in front of 70,000 people, including his graduating son. Entitled Make Magic and called “one of the best commencement addresses of all time,” it’s been shared millions of times across social media. Do yourself a favor, watch it here and buy the book here.
For sure, it’s tough to find anyone being so successful in so many different mediums of the popular culture. But why does Brad thrive in all these different professions? His belief that ordinary people change the world. It is that core belief that runs through every one of his projects.
His newest thriller, The Lightning Rod, brings back characters Nola and Zig in a setting that will blow your mind (you won't believe where the government let Brad go). For now, we'll say this: What's the one secret no one knows about you? It's about to come out. Nearly 2,000 five-star reviews. Raves by everyone from the Wall Street Journal, to James Patterson, to Brad's mother-in-law. Plus that twist at the end! And yes, the new Zig & Nola thriller is coming soon!
His newest non-fiction book, The JFK Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill Kennedy -- and Why It Failed, which he wrote with Josh Mensch, is a true story about a secret assassination plot to kill JFK at the start of his Presidency and, if successful, would’ve changed history.
His illustrated children’s books I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln, which he does with artist Chris Eliopoulos, were written for his own children, to give them better heroes to look up to. Try them. You won’t believe how inspired you and your family will be. Some of our favorites in the series are I am Mister Rogers and I am Dolly Parton.
His other non-fiction books, Heroes for My Son and Heroes for My Daughter, are collections of heroes – from Jim Henson to Sally Ride — that he’s been working on since the day his kids were born and is on sale now, as well as History Decoded: The 10 Greatest Conspiracies of All Time.
He’s also one of the co-creators of the TV show, Jack & Bobby.
Raised in Brooklyn and Miami, Brad is a graduate of the University of Michigan and Columbia Law School. The Tenth Justice was his first published work and became an instant New York Times bestseller. Dead Even followed a year later and also hit the New York Times bestseller list, as have all thirteen of his novels. The First Counsel came next, which was about a White House lawyer dating the President’s daughter, then The Millionaires, which was about two brothers who
In addition to his fiction, Brad is one of the only authors to ever have books on the bestseller list for Non-Fiction (The Nazi Conspiracy), Advice (Heroes for My Son and Heroes for My Daughter), Children’s Books (I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln) and even comic books (Justice League of America), for which he won the prestigious Eisner Award.
He is also the host of Brad Meltzer’s Lost History and Brad Meltzer’s Decoded on the History Channel, and is responsible for helping find the missing 9/11 flag that the firefighters raised at Ground Zero, making national news on the 15th anniversary of 9/11. Meltzer unveiled the flag at the 9/11 Museum in New York, where it is now on display. See the video here. The Hollywood Reporter recently put him on their list of Hollywood’s 25 Most Powerful Authors.
He also recently delivered the commencement address at the University of Michigan, in front of 70,000 people, including his graduating son. Entitled Make Magic and called “one of the best commencement addresses of all time,” it’s been shared millions of times across social media. Do yourself a favor, watch it here and buy the book here.
For sure, it’s tough to find anyone being so successful in so many different mediums of the popular culture. But why does Brad thrive in all these different professions? His belief that ordinary people change the world. It is that core belief that runs through every one of his projects.
His newest thriller, The Lightning Rod, brings back characters Nola and Zig in a setting that will blow your mind (you won't believe where the government let Brad go). For now, we'll say this: What's the one secret no one knows about you? It's about to come out. Nearly 2,000 five-star reviews. Raves by everyone from the Wall Street Journal, to James Patterson, to Brad's mother-in-law. Plus that twist at the end! And yes, the new Zig & Nola thriller is coming soon!
His newest non-fiction book, The JFK Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill Kennedy -- and Why It Failed, which he wrote with Josh Mensch, is a true story about a secret assassination plot to kill JFK at the start of his Presidency and, if successful, would’ve changed history.
His illustrated children’s books I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln, which he does with artist Chris Eliopoulos, were written for his own children, to give them better heroes to look up to. Try them. You won’t believe how inspired you and your family will be. Some of our favorites in the series are I am Mister Rogers and I am Dolly Parton.
His other non-fiction books, Heroes for My Son and Heroes for My Daughter, are collections of heroes – from Jim Henson to Sally Ride — that he’s been working on since the day his kids were born and is on sale now, as well as History Decoded: The 10 Greatest Conspiracies of All Time.
He’s also one of the co-creators of the TV show, Jack & Bobby.
Raised in Brooklyn and Miami, Brad is a graduate of the University of Michigan and Columbia Law School. The Tenth Justice was his first published work and became an instant New York Times bestseller. Dead Even followed a year later and also hit the New York Times bestseller list, as have all thirteen of his novels. The First Counsel came next, which was about a White House lawyer dating the President’s daughter, then The Millionaires, which was about two brothers who
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
September 5, 2019
Meltzer, you've done it again! (I seriously love writing reviews about my own books!) Chris turns in the most amazing art. Go buy it and give someone some magic.
November 7, 2019
Yeah for these books on interesting people who changed the world. I have read and seen a lot about Walt Disney over the years as I have always been a big fan of the movies and cartoons. I know the company isn’t perfect. Even with all that, I still learned new things in this book. Brad picks up unique details I don’t see other places (or I simply forgot them).
I heard often about his time in Kansas City and having to deliver newspapers in Kansas City, but I didn’t realize his home in Marceline, MO was so important to him. I also didn’t know the story about him finding a barrel of tar at his house and he then began to draw all over the side of the house with it. He said those tar drawings were still on the house when they sold it. They couldn’t get it off. The rest of the story is pretty well known, but Brad makes it all fun.
The nephew enjoyed this story. He loves Disneyland and Disney cartoons and he was actually interested in this. Well, Alright. The Nephew was interested in how the company got started and it’s hard to understand what a gamble this was knowing how well it pays off. He gave this 4 stars.
I heard often about his time in Kansas City and having to deliver newspapers in Kansas City, but I didn’t realize his home in Marceline, MO was so important to him. I also didn’t know the story about him finding a barrel of tar at his house and he then began to draw all over the side of the house with it. He said those tar drawings were still on the house when they sold it. They couldn’t get it off. The rest of the story is pretty well known, but Brad makes it all fun.
The nephew enjoyed this story. He loves Disneyland and Disney cartoons and he was actually interested in this. Well, Alright. The Nephew was interested in how the company got started and it’s hard to understand what a gamble this was knowing how well it pays off. He gave this 4 stars.
January 10, 2025
i love how little walt even has a mustache
December 26, 2019
I have read A LOT of bios of Walt Disney and other books that purport to tell his story. This is one of the best—if not THE best!—that I’ve read. 5 stars and 2 enthusiastic thumbs up!
September 15, 2019
This is a wonderful series of books for young kids, showing them how ordinary people followed their dreams and changed the world. Meltzer and Eliopoulos make a perfect team, and are also both huge Disney fans themselves, so this was a passion project for both them. Walt Disney Imagineers are famous for putting "hidden Mickeys" in attractions, rides, shows, buildings, scenery, etc; so when Brad mentioned this to Chris and suggested that they add some hidden Mickeys to the book, Chris replied, “Dummy, I already put them on every page. You missed every single one.”
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March 1, 2023عنوان ترجمهٔ فارسی: این منم والت دیزنی
(مجموعه کتابهای آدمهای معمولی جهان را تغییر میدهند!)
(مجموعه کتابهای آدمهای معمولی جهان را تغییر میدهند!)
March 22, 2023
A great little book for early readers interested in Walt Disney's childhood and start in his life as a cartoonist. This book is loaded with colorful pictures and set up like a graphic novel to keep things light and easy to read.
October 3, 2019
The hidden Mickeys were fun, too!
April 13, 2021
Another amazing biography book by Brad Meltzer. I have always loved Disney and everything that comes along with it; the movies, tv shows, characters, parks, etc. It is juts something most children and adults love and have been captivated by since their youth. I never knew this much about Walt Disney. I never knew about his life, where he started out, and how he got his big success. It is no surprise his first big break out was Mickey Mouse; everyone in this world loves Mickey Mouse. But I never knew everything that went into creating him and everything else they created. There were also a couple of other things i liked very much about this book. I love the page with the illustrations of some famous Disney movies, like Snow White, Cinderella, Peter Pan, etc. That is a great page to use to connect your students to the content. Most children know these famous movies because of parents or family showing them; so this page is a great way to make real connections with students. Another thing I loved was how they said Mickey Mouse is Walt and Walt is Mickey Mouse. I have never in my life thought of them like that, but it makes so much sense when they say it. They both are fearless and resourceful. Lastly, the last page is beautifully illustrated and has some amazing text. The picture of Disney World and some major characters in front is beautifully done and another great spot to make connections with students who know all these characters. The text also talked about making dreams come true and finding your happy place which was something Walt Disney was and still is so amazing at.
February 9, 2020
I am Walt Disney is a bibliography for 3rd and 4th grade students. It follows the life of Walt Disney as he grows up and follows his creative dreams. Walt's story inspires readers to follow their dreams no matter the obstacles. Walt was not discouraged by the setbacks he faced when he moved from his beloved hometown, got in trouble for daydreaming in class, or his first company failed. He continued to persevere and keep dreaming. Readers are able to relate to the setbacks that Walt Disney faced, and are encouraged to keep chasing after their dreams just as Walt Disney did.
In my class, I would use this book to teach my students about biographies and autobiographies. I would read it to my students as a read-aloud. I would then have my students write a biography similar to this book. They would interview someone that they look up to or admire and write a biography about them. I would also use this book to teach students about the importance of persevering through challenging times in order to chase after their dreams. I would have students write down the dreams they have for themselves and their life in a letter to their future self.
I am Walt Disney was a WOW book for me as I am very intrigued by all things Disney. I have grown up going to Disney World with my family which has made Mickey a very big part of my childhood. I have always been interested in Walt Disney and how Disney World was created and is continued to be shaped. This book outlines Walt Disney's life and the start of Disney from a childlike perspective. This book would be great to read with students as it teaches a great lesson with fun and colorful graphics throughout the book.
In my class, I would use this book to teach my students about biographies and autobiographies. I would read it to my students as a read-aloud. I would then have my students write a biography similar to this book. They would interview someone that they look up to or admire and write a biography about them. I would also use this book to teach students about the importance of persevering through challenging times in order to chase after their dreams. I would have students write down the dreams they have for themselves and their life in a letter to their future self.
I am Walt Disney was a WOW book for me as I am very intrigued by all things Disney. I have grown up going to Disney World with my family which has made Mickey a very big part of my childhood. I have always been interested in Walt Disney and how Disney World was created and is continued to be shaped. This book outlines Walt Disney's life and the start of Disney from a childlike perspective. This book would be great to read with students as it teaches a great lesson with fun and colorful graphics throughout the book.
January 3, 2020
Cute mini biography on Walt Disney. I loved the illustrations and how he always had a mustache. Great way for kids to learn about historic figures!
February 18, 2020
I am Walt Disney is an encouraging biography of a boy that was born with many different trials and tribulations and grew up to be very successful. The book introduces Walt Disney as a young boy who was very poor and had a lot of obstacles to overcome. He ultimately had a huge dream for animations and making motion pictures. Walt Disney worked so hard throughout his life and surpassed all of his wildest dreams. My favorite quote from the book was "And when you let that magic into your heart...you can fly. I am Walt Disney, and I know that the person who makes dreams come true...is YOU".
This book is so inspiring because it doesn't matter your circumstances, all that it takes to pursue your dreams is yourself. I would use this book starting in third grade because I feel like it truly would allow kids to explore their dreams no matter how big or small. It is a complex picture book with a lot of differing sentence structure.
I would use this book in a third grade classroom and introduce students to complex picture books. I would use this in my classroom as a dream board. I would first read the book, and then as a class create a dream board. Each student in the class gets to dream as big as they want too, and then we would all come together and share our dreams with each other.
This book is a WOW book for me because it shows that you can accomplish anything you want, you just have to believe in yourself. Looking into the future, it is hard to imagine my dream of becoming a teacher, but believing in myself is what is going to get me there.
This book is so inspiring because it doesn't matter your circumstances, all that it takes to pursue your dreams is yourself. I would use this book starting in third grade because I feel like it truly would allow kids to explore their dreams no matter how big or small. It is a complex picture book with a lot of differing sentence structure.
I would use this book in a third grade classroom and introduce students to complex picture books. I would use this in my classroom as a dream board. I would first read the book, and then as a class create a dream board. Each student in the class gets to dream as big as they want too, and then we would all come together and share our dreams with each other.
This book is a WOW book for me because it shows that you can accomplish anything you want, you just have to believe in yourself. Looking into the future, it is hard to imagine my dream of becoming a teacher, but believing in myself is what is going to get me there.
November 29, 2022
This I listen to a 20 minute audiobook to buffer my reading goals for the year. Yes, yes I did lol. But it was cute overall quick story of Walt. Good for kids
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December 29, 2024Trying to get 8yo excited for Disneyland. 🤷🏻♀️
November 15, 2025
I will never not be fascinated with the person that Walt Disney was.
November 1, 2019
3 stars
April 16, 2020
I am Walt Disney is a sweet book that tells the story of a man who never stopped dreaming. Brad Meltzer tells the story of Disney who grew up in a small town in Missouri named Marceline. This town was Walt Disney's happy place that inspired him to create a happy place for other people- Disney Land and Disney World! Though this book is categorized as a biography, the author draws the reader in with his pictures and by the fact that the story is also told through dialogue of the characters. This book was very inspiring because it told the story of Walt Disney, a man who never gave up no matter who told him he couldn't and no matter what life through at him. I enjoyed the fact that the book didn't just go through talking about his entire life, but rather talked about the instances in his life that changed him or were mostly important. For instance, the book shared about Disney's move to Kansas City, his move to California, his use of animation, the creation of cartoons, etc. I really learned a lot about Walt Disney's life that I didn't know. I would recommend the book for 2nd-4th graders because some of the vocabulary is advanced.
There are several ways I would like to implement this book in my classroom. I absolutely loved when the book said, "I know that the person who makes dreams come true is... you!" I think this is such a valuable lesson to teach students and reemphasize to them that they can do anything they put their mind to. An activity I would do with my students is have them right down a dream of theirs that they want to accomplish in their lifetime. We would then work together as a class to write down the steps it would take for each person to reach their dream. This way, they realize their dreams can become a reality if they put in the work to get there. Another idea I have would be for ELA instruction where I would have my students research more on Walt Disney and write their own biography on him. Some of my students may not know who Walt Disney is, so it would be great for my students to learn about him and the impact he has had on our lives.
This book was definitely a WOW book for me. Since I was four years old, I have loved nothing more than going to Disney World. It truly is the happiest place on earth because no matter how old you are, you always feel like a kid when you are there. You could easily say I am a "Disney fanatic" because of how much I love to go to Disney World and because of how much I love Disney movies, so of course I loved this book. On top of that, this book was a WOW book for me simply because of the sweet lesson that it teaches. For instance, the book talks about always finding the magic in our lives because everyone has it if you just look! When you have magic in your heart, you can do anything you put your mind to. I also loved the fact that the book talks about how the only person who can make your dreams come true is you. This is such an important reminder to kids, but also to adult readers like me. Overall, this book was so sweet and taught such great lessons and I cannot wait to read it to my future students one day.
There are several ways I would like to implement this book in my classroom. I absolutely loved when the book said, "I know that the person who makes dreams come true is... you!" I think this is such a valuable lesson to teach students and reemphasize to them that they can do anything they put their mind to. An activity I would do with my students is have them right down a dream of theirs that they want to accomplish in their lifetime. We would then work together as a class to write down the steps it would take for each person to reach their dream. This way, they realize their dreams can become a reality if they put in the work to get there. Another idea I have would be for ELA instruction where I would have my students research more on Walt Disney and write their own biography on him. Some of my students may not know who Walt Disney is, so it would be great for my students to learn about him and the impact he has had on our lives.
This book was definitely a WOW book for me. Since I was four years old, I have loved nothing more than going to Disney World. It truly is the happiest place on earth because no matter how old you are, you always feel like a kid when you are there. You could easily say I am a "Disney fanatic" because of how much I love to go to Disney World and because of how much I love Disney movies, so of course I loved this book. On top of that, this book was a WOW book for me simply because of the sweet lesson that it teaches. For instance, the book talks about always finding the magic in our lives because everyone has it if you just look! When you have magic in your heart, you can do anything you put your mind to. I also loved the fact that the book talks about how the only person who can make your dreams come true is you. This is such an important reminder to kids, but also to adult readers like me. Overall, this book was so sweet and taught such great lessons and I cannot wait to read it to my future students one day.
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October 9, 2019This is so cute; perfect gift for the Disney fan in your life.
IB IWERKS LOVE TOO.
IB IWERKS LOVE TOO.
April 20, 2020
I Am Walt Disney is an inspiring children’s biography that introduces the audience to the creator of Disney and encourages students to push through the trials life puts you through in order to achieve your goals. This book takes us on a journey of Walt’s life, told by Walt Disney himself. Walt faced many obstacles during his life, but he did not stop working for his dreams. Because of his perseverance we are now able to enjoy what he calls the happiest place on earth. This book would be a good fit for third graders, ages 7-9, to introduce biographies in the classroom.
This is definitely a WOW book for me because I love the entire world of Disney and going on vacation to Disney World brought some of the best childhood memories. It was so cool to actually learn about how it was created and I learned things I never knew before about Walt himself. Another reason I Am Walt Disney is a WOW book for me is because it shares the biography of Walt in a graphic novel format. The colorful visuals throughout the book really connect the reader to what is happening to the person’s life. I love the fact that the entire series shares the message that ordinary people can change the world, and students will be able to see themselves more as change agents.
I would definitely use this book in a 3rd grade classroom as a read aloud. After reading this to the students, I could meet with them one by one in a conference format to set goals with them and practice celebrating small victories. This could encourage motivation in students outside of the classroom when working towards their bigger goals. I think this book would be a good tool to use before a whole group discussion as well to connect the hardships Walt Disney went through to hardships our students could be facing today.
This is definitely a WOW book for me because I love the entire world of Disney and going on vacation to Disney World brought some of the best childhood memories. It was so cool to actually learn about how it was created and I learned things I never knew before about Walt himself. Another reason I Am Walt Disney is a WOW book for me is because it shares the biography of Walt in a graphic novel format. The colorful visuals throughout the book really connect the reader to what is happening to the person’s life. I love the fact that the entire series shares the message that ordinary people can change the world, and students will be able to see themselves more as change agents.
I would definitely use this book in a 3rd grade classroom as a read aloud. After reading this to the students, I could meet with them one by one in a conference format to set goals with them and practice celebrating small victories. This could encourage motivation in students outside of the classroom when working towards their bigger goals. I think this book would be a good tool to use before a whole group discussion as well to connect the hardships Walt Disney went through to hardships our students could be facing today.
February 9, 2020
I am Walt Disney is an influential biography that introduces young students to Walt Disney and tells the story of how his hard work led to the creation of Walt Disney Studios. The story, told by Walt Disney himself, shares his personal thoughts and feelings through his life’s journey. Walt Disney reveals how he had to overcome hardships to reach his dream. Disney moved from his hometown Marceline, Missouri to Kansas City when he was still a young boy. He took a job delivering papers and worked the same grueling delivery route for six years. His job didn’t leave him much free time to draw and dream. Throughout his life, there were always people who doubted Disney’s dreams, but it didn’t stop him from doing what he loved. As Walt Disney famously said, “I know that the person who makes dreams come true is … YOU.” I would share this biography in a third-grade classroom. I would discuss the difficult obstacles Walt Disney had to overcome with students and ask them to reflect on their own life and how they can relate to what Walt Disney had to go through. Additionally, I would use this book to teach my students about setting goals to reach their dreams no matter how big or small they might seem.
I am Walt Disney is a WOW book for me because I have always had a love for all things Disney. This book incorporates Walt Disney’s life and the creation of Walt Disney Studios and includes facts that I never knew. Brad Meltzer’s ability to capture Walt Disney’s inspirational life story allows for teachers to discuss never giving up on your goals or dreams for the future with students.
I am Walt Disney is a WOW book for me because I have always had a love for all things Disney. This book incorporates Walt Disney’s life and the creation of Walt Disney Studios and includes facts that I never knew. Brad Meltzer’s ability to capture Walt Disney’s inspirational life story allows for teachers to discuss never giving up on your goals or dreams for the future with students.
September 8, 2019
Ordinary People Change the World is a biographical picture book series from Brad Meltzer, best known as a bestselling author of adult thrillers. Positive and inspiring for preschoolers. Christopher Eliopoulos’ cute illustrations just add another layer of appeal! Introducing young readers to these ordinary people who fought against stereotypes and/or injustice, the books have tackled various well-known people and their causes. I loved the use of other artwork in this one. Perfect for dreamers and for those who may need to be reminded that it's more than ok to dream.
September 11, 2019
My favorite so far in the series! Years of anticipation and it was 100% worth it. This is a children's series I have no shame in collecting just for me. They're the best!
September 11, 2019
I like this book it was cute
September 12, 2019
Love this series and this book especially about Walt Disney. I’m a huge Disney fan and this book was amazing!
September 22, 2020
Ever wonder where or how Mickey Mouse became known today? Reading the biography, “I am Walt Disney”, will answer all your questions about how the beloved character originated! The book begins through the eyes of Walt Disney himself from a young age (4). You will learn about Walt’s childhood and the struggles he had to overcome, such as his unsupportive father to his bankruptcy, all which led him to be the well-known creator we all know and love today. As the biography continues, you will enjoy reading and seeing his animations come to life and how the start of Disneyland opened the doors for so much more. At the end of the book, the author has provided a timeline of Walt’s biggest achievements that prove that success happens over time.
Children, and adults alike, will enjoy the colorful illustrations and comic book like layout, as well as seeing some past and present Disney characters that they have grown to love.
The book is suitable for grades 3rd through 5th. It would be a great edition to a classroom library after introducing biographies, discussing various text structures, or after comparing two types of literary forms. For example, if you were comparing the book Mulan to the Disney movie version, this would be an opportune time to discuss Walt Disney.
I chose this as a WOW book for a few reasons. It’s illustrations are very eye-catching, along with the comic book style. It makes reading a biography much more enjoyable. It also doesn’t just focus on one aspect of Walt Disney’s life. It captures his story from the very beginning of his life. All of these factors make this book WOW!
Children, and adults alike, will enjoy the colorful illustrations and comic book like layout, as well as seeing some past and present Disney characters that they have grown to love.
The book is suitable for grades 3rd through 5th. It would be a great edition to a classroom library after introducing biographies, discussing various text structures, or after comparing two types of literary forms. For example, if you were comparing the book Mulan to the Disney movie version, this would be an opportune time to discuss Walt Disney.
I chose this as a WOW book for a few reasons. It’s illustrations are very eye-catching, along with the comic book style. It makes reading a biography much more enjoyable. It also doesn’t just focus on one aspect of Walt Disney’s life. It captures his story from the very beginning of his life. All of these factors make this book WOW!
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March 3, 2021Summary: This cute children's book tells about the life of Walt Disney. You get to read about his childhood, how he overcame failure and challenges, his inspiration for Disney cartoons, movies, and Disneyland, and his encouragement to the world. The book is written through the lens of a child.
Reflection: I really enjoyed reading this book. It was very informational, but not overwhelming. The illustrations were unique, colorful, and detailed which enhanced the story. The only thing is, it's kinda long and includes many side conversations on each page that can make it hard to follow the main flow of the story.
Application: This would be a really great book to use if you are learning about influential people or even an encouraging story about the blessings of perseverance, grit, hope, and determination. It is informational and still an interesting read for younger children.
Reflection: I really enjoyed reading this book. It was very informational, but not overwhelming. The illustrations were unique, colorful, and detailed which enhanced the story. The only thing is, it's kinda long and includes many side conversations on each page that can make it hard to follow the main flow of the story.
Application: This would be a really great book to use if you are learning about influential people or even an encouraging story about the blessings of perseverance, grit, hope, and determination. It is informational and still an interesting read for younger children.
February 1, 2024
I am Walt Disney is a bibliography and comic book. It's about the life of Walt Disney as he grows up to become who we all know him as today, the creator of the disney parks and movies. Walt's story inspires readers to follow their dreams no matter how big the obstacles are. Walt never lost courage even with his setbacks. He never stoped dreaming.
I fell in love with this book! I never get tired of hearing Walt's life story because of how much I live disney. There are so many great and colorful pictures and graphics that many kids would love.
This book could be used in the classroom to teach students about perseverance and never giving up. Or as Walt would say, "Never stop dreaming."
I fell in love with this book! I never get tired of hearing Walt's life story because of how much I live disney. There are so many great and colorful pictures and graphics that many kids would love.
This book could be used in the classroom to teach students about perseverance and never giving up. Or as Walt would say, "Never stop dreaming."
April 13, 2021
Genre: Biography
Grade Level: 2nd-5th
I REALLY love this series! This book is FULL of great information about Walt Disney, his work, and his inspirations. I used this book for a biography lesson in 2nd grade and the students really loved it. I would say that some parts of the book may "ruin the magic" behind some of the Disney characters for younger students so I did choose to skip a few pages to spare a few phone calls from angry parents. This books is also pretty long and again has a ton of information so it is definitely more suitable for older students. The illustrations were really great and I love how the author included real pictures of Walt Disney throughout his life as well.
Grade Level: 2nd-5th
I REALLY love this series! This book is FULL of great information about Walt Disney, his work, and his inspirations. I used this book for a biography lesson in 2nd grade and the students really loved it. I would say that some parts of the book may "ruin the magic" behind some of the Disney characters for younger students so I did choose to skip a few pages to spare a few phone calls from angry parents. This books is also pretty long and again has a ton of information so it is definitely more suitable for older students. The illustrations were really great and I love how the author included real pictures of Walt Disney throughout his life as well.
November 23, 2019
I did not realize "Xavier Riddle and thebSecret Museum" was based on a book series until I started reading this book, and I like how you can spot the three main characters of the tv show at the end of this book.
This was a cute simple biography, and it is well designed for Elementary school readers.
I liked the pictures and the detail, as well as the mix of original illustrations and illustrations from Walt Disney.
It is well paced and well structured. It also includes a nice timeline at the end.
This was a cute simple biography, and it is well designed for Elementary school readers.
I liked the pictures and the detail, as well as the mix of original illustrations and illustrations from Walt Disney.
It is well paced and well structured. It also includes a nice timeline at the end.
June 3, 2020
This was the first of Brad Meltzer's "I Am..." books I saw in bookstores. I am a huge fan of Disney (and Walt by default), so I finally read this, and enjoyed it. I think I didn't enjoy this as much as the others in the series because, as someone who already knows a lot of the information presented in this book, and owns a lot of Walt related merchandise, this was essentially a review of my already existing knowledge.
I liked how the book showcased Walt's message: If you can dream it, you can do it. This is a great way to introduce Walt (and Disney movies) to young readers.
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