Title
The Perfect American,Used
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The Perfect American is a fictionalized biography of Walt Disneys final months, as narrated by Wilhelm Dantine, an Austrian cartoonist who worked for Disney in the 40s and 50s, illustrating sequences for Sleeping Beauty. It is also the story of Dantine himself, who desperately seeks Disneys recognition at the risk of his own ruin.Peter Stephan Jungk has infused a new energy into the genre of fictionalized biography. Dantine, imbued with a sense of European superiority, first refuses to submit to Disneys rule, but is nevertheless fascinated by the childlike omnipotence of a man who identifies with Mickey Mouse. We discover Walts delusions of immortality via cryogenic preservation, his tirades alongside his Abraham Lincoln talking robot, his invitation of Nikita Khruschev to Disneyland once he learns that the Soviet Premier wants to visit the park, his utopian visions of his EPCOT project, and his backyard labyrinth of toy trains. Yet, if at first Walt seems to have a magic wand granting him all his wishes, we soon discover that he is as tortured as the man who tells his story.After Disney refuses to acknowledge Dantines selfprofessed talent and hard work, he fires the frustrated cartoonist for writing, along with other staff members, an anonymous polemical memorandum regarding Disneys jingoistic politics. Years later, in the late 60s, still deeply wounded by his dismissal, Dantine follows Disneys trail to capture what makes Walt tick. Dantine wants us to grasp what it is like to live and breathe around the man who thought of himself as more famous than Santa Claus. Walts wife Lillian, his confidante and perhaps his mistress Hazel, his brother Roy, his children Diane and Sharon, his close and illtreated collaborators, and famous figures such as Peter Ustinov, Salvador Dali, Andy Warhol, and Geraldine Chaplin, all contribute to the novels animation, its feel for the life of the Disney world.This deeply researched work not only provides interesting interpretations of what made Walt Disney a central figure in American popular culture, but also explores the complex expectations of gifted European immigrants who came to the United States after World War II with preconceived notions of how to achieve the American dream.
⚠️ WARNING (California Proposition 65):
This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: How many pages does 'The Perfect American' have? A: This book contains one hundred ninety-two pages. It provides an in-depth exploration of Walt Disney's life and career.
- Q: What is the binding type of 'The Perfect American'? A: The binding type is hardcover. This ensures durability and a premium feel for readers.
- Q: What are the dimensions of 'The Perfect American'? A: The dimensions are six point two six inches in length, zero point eight inches in width, and nine point two five inches in height.
- Q: Who is the author of 'The Perfect American'? A: The author is Peter Stephan Jungk. He offers a unique perspective on the life of Walt Disney.
- Q: What genre does 'The Perfect American' fall under? A: The genre is biographical. It offers a fictionalized account of Walt Disney's life and legacy.
- Q: How should I read 'The Perfect American'? A: You can read it as a captivating biography. It's suitable for anyone interested in Disney's life and impact.
- Q: Is 'The Perfect American' suitable for young readers? A: Yes, it is appropriate for older teens and adults. The themes may be complex for younger readers.
- Q: How can I best appreciate the themes in 'The Perfect American'? A: Reading with an understanding of historical context will enhance your appreciation. Familiarity with Disney's legacy can also help.
- Q: How should I store 'The Perfect American' to keep it in good condition? A: Store it upright in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading of the cover.
- Q: Can I clean the cover of 'The Perfect American'? A: Yes, gently wipe the cover with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using water or cleaning products.
- Q: What if 'The Perfect American' arrives damaged? A: Contact the seller for a replacement or refund. Most sellers have a return policy for damaged items.
- Q: Is there a warranty for 'The Perfect American'? A: Typically, books do not come with a warranty. However, check with the retailer for their specific policies.
- Q: What makes 'The Perfect American' different from other biographies? A: It offers a fictionalized perspective, focusing on the complexities of Walt Disney's character and his relationships.
- Q: Who would enjoy reading 'The Perfect American'? A: Anyone interested in biography, American culture, or the history of animation would enjoy this book.
- Q: Does 'The Perfect American' include illustrations? A: No, the book is primarily text-based. However, it vividly describes Disney's animated world.