From his humble beginnings to his groundbreaking achievements in animation, film, and theme park creation, “Walt Disney: An American Original,” explores Disney's innovative spirit, determination, and the challenges he faced in building an entertainment empire. It’s a chronological journey from Missouri to Disneyland and a highlight of all his creative genius and business acumen emphasizing his guiding desire to have people experience happiness. This is the life of a visionary displayed in a very accessible and well written chronicle. ( )

Good book. I didn't know Walt was such a hard ass to work for, but it sure makes sense after reading what he had to go through to get his company off the ground. ( )

I found this to be a very interesting biography on Walt Disney. I knew a lot about the theme parks and Disney animation, but was surprised at how little I knew about the man's life, particularly his early years.

The preface to this book contains very out-of-context discussions from Diane, Walt's oldest daughter, including quotes along the lines of how Disney's reputation was being questioned and negative things were being said about him. Without context, those quotes made the book start off with a defensive posture, which I found odd for an official biography published by the official Disney publishing company (Hyperion).

Understand that this book is a very uncritical biography. I don't think that takes away at all from the book's impact or importance. In this day and age, it's very easy to do additional research to figure out all that was left unsaid in the book. ( )

Good book overall. Follows Walt Disney from childhood to his death. Seems to be very detailed in some sections and then glosses over others. ( )

I really enjoyed this book! Thomas was able to interview those closest to Disney, including Walt himself, as well as read important documents, correspondence, and transcriptions in order to give a well-rounded and detailed account of Walt's life. Of course, I would love an even more detailed biography (360 pages isn't enough!). And while Thomas clearly admired Walt and wanted to do right by him, he does not hide the fact that Walt was a difficult man to work with. Shoot, I would definitely not want to work with him!

Through quotes gathered from speeches, memos, meeting minutes, and interview transcripts, I was able to get a sense of how dedicated Walt was to the idea of "Disney" and family entertainment. He had so many goals, and although he didn't live to see all of them completed, he still achieved so much, as we all know. I admit I teared up a little when Thomas reached Walt's death. ( )