Book Review: Practically Poppins in Every Way

Practically Poppins in Every Way: A Magical Carpetbag of Countless Wonders

Practically Poppins in Every Way takes a deep dive into many aspects of Mary Poppins spanning the original books through the new film “Mary Poppins Returns”  and along the way touching on topics including the music, merchandise, the stage play and more.   The book provides brief bios and information about the cast and many of the creative team leaders of both the original “Mary Poppins” film as well as “Mary Poppins Returns”.

In addition to the author’s narrative there are a large number of pieces contributed by individuals affiliated with the projects, archivists, historians,  or excerpts from previous works.   For example Fox Carney from the Disney Animation Research Library has a couple page piece on the Art and Artistry of Mary Poppins.   Throughout the chapters are full page and two page spread images and concept art pieces.

Jeff Kurtti should be an author’s name most Disneygeeks recognize.  He has written numerous books over the years about the Disney parks and films such as “Walt Disney’s Imagineering Legends and the Genesis of the Disney Theme Park” or “The Art of Disneyland” as well as “Walt’s Time”.    This book is very similar in scope to the Jason Surrell Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean books.

There are eight chapters – East Wind, Mrs. Travers in Cherry Tree Lane, Mr. Disney Opens the Door, Memorable Music and Magic, The Mary Poppins Phenomenon, Perpetual Poppins, Mary Poppins on the Boards and West Wind.

A couple of the sections I really enjoyed looking through were the merchandise, movie posters and music releases.  The pictures of the original products and posters from around the world were really fun to take a look at.   I would have liked to have seen and read a little more on these since I found them interesting.

Practically Poppins In Every Way will make a great addition to a Mary Poppins fan’s library.    It is a great reference book combining material from numerous sources in one spot.  It is a valuable resource to those wanting to learn more or researching the Mary Poppins films, music and productions.