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Books For the Disney Fan

4 min read

What are the classic books and stories behind your favourite Disney films? From Hans Andersen’s fairy tales and Hundred Acre Wood to the magical worlds of Narnia and Oz, Disney has been inspired by a wide range of mystical and magical plots. Here at Country House Library, we have a wonderful selection of vintage books on offer for the Disney fan to enjoy.




  1. Fairy Tales and Legends, Hans Andersen, 1948

    Fairy Tales and Legends, Hans Andersen, 1948

    Though not all of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tales have been turned into Disney films, several of them have. 'The Little Mermaid', for example, or 'The Snow Queen' and 'The Ugly Duckling'. There are also many stories that Disney fans may not have come across before, such as 'The Tinder Box' and 'The Last Dream of the Old Oak'. This volume features forty-eight of Andersen’s classic fairy tales and is an enchanting read that will appeal to the imagination of children and adults alike.

    Shop for vintage Hans Christian Andersen books at Country House Library →


  2. The Wizard of Oz, Frank L. Baum (retold by Joan Collins), 1984

    The Wizard of Oz, retold by Joan Collins, 1984

    This hugely popular story by Frank L. Baum is more commonly known from the famous 1939 film. The book is however just as charming and is a must read for every Disney fan. The story tells of a young girl Dorothy and a terrifying tornado that whips through her home in Kansas. The storm transports her, and her dog Toto, to the magical land of Oz. Here she visits many delightful places and meets charming characters but there is a wickedness in this world too which Dorothy must overcome. Joan Collins adaptation for younger children is written with mystery and charm, ensuring the book is every bit as good as the film.

    Shop for vintage Oz Books at Country House Library →


  3. Illustrated Pinocchio, C. Collodi, 1957-63

    Illustrated Pinocchio, C. Collodi, 1957-63

    This illustrated edition of Pinocchio is the perfect gift for a Disney fan. Carlo Collodi tells the tale of a wooden puppet who magically comes to life as a real boy. There is however a catch. If Pinocchio doesn’t tell the truth, his nose grows longer and his limbs stiffen once again. Pinocchio is a timeless tale and can be enjoyed by readers of all ages. Though other authors have based stories on Pinocchio, Collodi was the original author and this book carries all the charm of his writing style.

    Shop for vintage Pinocchio editions at Country House Library →


  4. Walt Disney’s Cinderella, Walt Disney, 1977

    Walt Disney’s Cinderella, Walt Disney, 1977

    The original Cinderella story (Histoires ou contes du temps passe) was penned by French writer Charles Perrault in 1697. For hundreds of years, the tale has been told and retold, appearing in classic fairy tale collections such as the works of Hans Christian Andersen and of the brothers Grimm. This volume once again tells the classic tale of Cinderella’s rise from scullery maid to princess. It is closely based on the Disney film and contains full colour illustrations based on the Disney screening. If you are a Disney fan, then this magical Walt Disney edition is the perfect choice!

    Shop for vintage Cinderella editions at Country House Library →


  5. Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day, Walt Disney, 1985

    Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day, Walt Disney, 1985

    With its charming cover design, depicting the honey-loving bear himself, this Ladybird book is a great choice for fans of all things Disney. This book is especially designed for children, containing full colour illustrations and written with simple sentences. It is however a wonderful little volume for young and old Disney fans alike. As the title suggests, the story follows A. A. Milne's loveable bear as he navigates the trials of a particularly blustery day alongside his friends. With autumn just around the corner, this story is a great one to snuggle up with on a wet, blustery day.

    Shop for vintage A.A. Milne books at Country House Library →


  6. Prince Caspian, C. S. Lewis, 1988

    Prince Caspian, C. S. Lewis, 1988

    'The Chronicles of Narnia' are essential childhood reading. The series follows the four Pevensie children, Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy, as they navigate their way through the mysterious world of Narnia. Prince Caspian is a little different to the other books however, focusing on the tale of a Telmarine prince 1,300 years after the Pevensie children have left Narnia. Readers who have read or watched The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe will certainly enjoy this book. Those who have watched the Disney version of Prince Caspian will also enjoy this charming vintage read.

    Shop for vintage Narnia books at Country House Library →


  7. Pollyanna, Eleanor H. Porter, 1978

    Pollyanna, Eleanor H. Porter, 1978

    This delightful book is a favourite amongst readers who also love Anne of Green Gables. The story follows a somewhat similar plot, as orphan girl Pollyanna is sent to live with her Aunt Polly. Pollyanna has such an effect on all those around her that even Aunt Polly forgets about her ‘duty’ towards the child and develops a fondness towards her. Though Pollyanna has been dramatized by the BBC, it has also been produced as a Disney film. It is a charming read and well worth buying if you like Disney or simply enjoy reading happy stories.

    Shop for vintage Children's books at Country House Library →


  8. P. L. TRAVERS’ MARY POPPINS - PUFFIN, 1962

    P.L. TRAVERS’ MARY POPPINS - PUFFIN, 1962

    On another blustery day, the east wind blows Mary Poppins towards the home of the Banks children. She is a nurse unlike any other and changes the children’s lives completely. Though the story was first published in 1934, it is still much loved today and was made into a Disney film in 1964. Readers will be transported to a mysterious world, centring around this magical nanny. This book is a great choice for younger readers but also for adults who may enjoy a bit of Disney nostalgia.

    Shop for vintage Mary Poppins books at Country House Library →




Do you believe in magic?

There is an enchanting quality that surrounds most classic children’s books and stories. Whether set in magical worlds or filled with delightful characters, the books on this list are must read works of fiction. The films of Walt Disney capture a little of this magic, bringing original stories to life in a new way. So, if you believe in the magical power of stories and their ability to transform into films, then look no further than this intriguing list of books for Disney lovers.


BROWSE MORE VINTAGE CHILDREN'S BOOKS →


 



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