Description: "Finally, the story of America's regional theme parks. Everybody knows pretty much everything about Disneyland--how it got started, how the Imagineers do their thing, and so on. But nobody ever talks about the parks that most of us across the country enjoy far more often. Regional theme parks, different from amusement parks, owe their existence to the magical land Walt built in Anaheim. There were a few false starts, but in 1961 Angus Wynne opened Six Flags Over Texas, triggering a tidal wave of Disneyland-lites over the next twenty years. Imagineering an American dreamscape tells the story of the regionals and the strong-willed individuals behind them--where they came from, how they got started, and how they've changed over the decades. Some of the stories you may have heard. Most you probably haven't, and it's a fascinating tale to tell. Sit back and enjoy the long journey from the grand world expositions of yesteryear to the parks you grew up to love and cherish"--Amazon.com.
Brief description: Barry R. Hill is a professor of audio engineering, instructional designer, and writer. A member of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (Grammys), Audio Engineering Society, and the Themed Entertainment Association, he has authored several books including Podcast Audio: Make Your Show Sound As Good As Your Content and Elizabeth City: Rediscover Home. He can be contacted at www.barryrhill.com.
Review Quotes:
There's a wide world of fun outside of Disney and Universal Parks-this book does a great job showcasing the innovators and inspiration behind America's most-beloved regional theme parks.
Anthony Esparza, Former Chief Creative Officer at Herschend Family Entertainment, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, and Paramount ParksImagineering an American Dreamscape is a must-read for anyone in the amusement industry. Not only does it document the grand history of theme parks, but it just might teach numerous professionals about the very park in which they work. It's not just a great book, it's a fun ride.
Tim Baldwin, Amusement TodayAnyone who loves their local amusement park will enjoy this fact-filled and entertaining story of the creation of the regional theme park.
Rick Bastrup, President, R&R Amusement Designs