The Disney That Never Was
Animation History Disney Studies Art & Illustration Film Production Behind-the-Scenes Juvenile Non-Fiction Pop Culture
The Disney That Never Was – Charles Solomon’s 1995 hardcover treasure – opens the locked vault of Walt Disney’s “might-have-beens,” showcasing hundreds of never-before-seen storyboards, concept paintings, and character designs for films that were story-developed but never finished. From the abandoned Mickey Mouse short “Puss in Boots” to the shelved feature “Chanticleer,” Solomon walks readers through four decades of creative trial-and-error, revealing how Disney’s legendary “story trust” refined its craft by learning what not to make. The result is a visually rich, behind-the-scenes documentary in book form that delights animation buffs, Disney park devotees, and casual fans alike.
What makes this particular copy special is its sturdy ex-library hardcover binding: it has been read and loved, yet every vibrant illustration remains crisp and the tight spine ensures decades more enjoyment. Light shelf wear and the customary library stamps are the only reminders of its previous life; inside, the pages are free of dog-ears and margin scrawls, making it an affordable entry point for collectors who want the content without the collector-grade price. Children ages 9-12 can pore over the colorful artwork, while teens and adults will savor Solomon’s meticulous research and candid studio anecdotes.
Because the title is long out of print and rarely appears in hardcover, snapping up an “acceptable” but complete copy is the smartest way to secure a piece of Disney history before prices climb. Whether you’re hunting for a unique gift, researching animation techniques, or curating a shelf of indispensable Disneyana, The Disney That Never Was delivers the magic that almost was—and still inspires creators today.
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