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[BOOK 251] DOLORES HAUGH: RIVERVIEW AMUSEMENT PARK. [2004] (16x23cm - 130 Pages - Many B&W photos). Every summer from 1904 to 1967, for 63 years, Riverview (Chicago, Illinois) -the world's largest amusement park- opened its gates to millions of people. For three generations, the Schmidt's family park offered rides, shows, food and music to all. The park survived depressions, two World Wars, labour disputes, Prohibition and a World's Fair that threatened to take a great deal of its business. This publication tells the story of Riverview's growth from 22 acres and three rides to 140 acres and more than 100 attractions. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[BOOK 252] TERRY REGAN & ANDREW HAZLEHURST: FROM LAMP TO LASER - THE STORY OF THE BLACKPOOL ILLUMINATIONS. [2004] (22x28cm - 134 Pages - Many B&W photos). Journey through Blackpool's (England) history and discover how electrical power influenced the resort's development. It is a nostalgic look at the illuminated displays and tableaux that have turned a simple light show into a national institution. Chapter Points: Introduction; Fresh Air & Fun; The True Beginning; Piers, Deals, and Big Wheels, Long Live the King!; Prelude to War; The Roaring '20s; Clouds on the Horizon; The Lights Go Out over Europe; Back at Last, This Time for Good; Blackpool Transformed; Meanwhile back at the Depot; Decorated Tramcars; One Vision; The Stars Came Out; Dates of the Illuminations and the Switch-On Personalities. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair / Good.
[BOOK 253] DAVID & DIANE FRANCIS: CLEVELAND AMUSEMENT PARK MEMORIES. [2004] (21x25cm - 130 Pages - Many B&W photos). Revisit the glory days of Cleveland's (Ohio) classic amusement parks! Each park had its own distinct personality, its own peculiarities, and its own alluring array of popular attractions. Savour this scenic excursion into the past! Chapter Points: Introduction; Euclid Beach Park; Luna Park; Geauga Lake Park; Puritas Springs Park; Cleveland's Other Parks: (Kiddie Playland, Scenic Park, Lincoln Park, Willoughbeach Park, Woodland Hills Park, Gordon Gardens Park, Edgewater Park, Mentor Beach Playland, The Great Lakes Exposition, Orchard Lake Park). White City; Memphis Kiddie Park; Geneva-on-the-Lake; Cleveland Zoo Kiddie Park; Acknowledgements; Further Reading. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Recommended.
[BOOK 254] STEVEN J. URBANOWICZ: THE CHEAPSKATE'S GUIDE TO THEME PARKS. [2004] (14x21cm - 212 Pages - Few B&W photos and maps). Featuring 25 of the most popular theme parks in the United States. Do you love to ride but hate to stand in line? Live for thrills but don't want to pay outrageous prices? Want to know more about how to save big bucks on everything from admission prices to parking, food and even souvenirs? Then you need this ultimate insider guide chock-full of great tips for saving time and money so you can make the most of your theme park adventure. What rides to hit first. How the 'fast lane' operates, and how to work it to your advantage. Where to find food and accommodation that won't break the bank. How to avoid lines and when and where to look for serious discounts (They're easier to find than you think!). ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair.
[BOOK 255] AMERICAN COASTER ENTHUSIASTS: 2004 WORLDWIDE ROLLER COASTER CENSUS. (21x28cm - 94 Pages). The complete catalogue of all operating coasters worldwide. A comprehensive list detailing: coaster type, manufacturer, year debuted, park, statistics, location (state/country) etc...; ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair.
[BOOK 256] H. VANDEN DIEPSTRATEN: DE EFTELING KRONIEK VAN EEN SPROOKJE 1952-2002. [2004] (23x31cm - 206 Pages - Full colour). A well-presented chronological history of De Efteling (Kaatsheuvel, Netherlands). Read about the founding of the park in 1951/52 and see the conceptual drawings for many of the fairytale-themed attractions including, Sleeping Beauty; Langnek; The Dancing Shoes; The Little Match Girl; and the paper eater Holle Bolle Gijs. The many rides and attractions are featured too, including the steel looping coaster, Python (1981); the wooden coaster, Pegasus (1991); Villa Volta, the Haunted Swing (1996); and Vogel Rok (1998). It's a fascinating tale from beginning to end. (Dutch script throughout). ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Excellent.
[BOOK 257] MICHAEL PERNA JR: LAKE QUINSIGAMOND AND WHITE CITY AMUSEMENT PARK. [2004] (16x23cm - 96 Pages - Many B&W photos). In the 1800s and well into the 1900s, the area around Lake Quinsigamond, in Shrewsbury and Worcester (Massachusetts), was one huge summer resort. Boat clubs, picnic grounds and two amusement parks, Lincoln Park and White City Park, lined the shore. Experience once more the Chute The Chutes, the Funhouse and the White City roller coaster. Enjoy the fun atmosphere during those long-ago summers. Chapter Points: Lincoln Park, The Causeway and Crew Racing; White City Amusement Park; Clubhouses, Hotels and Beaches; Other Places and Attractions. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair.
[BOOK 258] JEFFREY D. BROWN & RAYMOND D. FETE: THE LAST DANCE - MEYERS LAKE PARK AND ZOO 1869-1979. [2004] (22x28cm - 372 Pages - Many B&W photos, some colour). A nostalgic recollection of Meyers Lake Park (Canton, Ohio). Featuring the rides and attractions once found there: The Dodgems, Carousel, Flying Scooters, the ever-popular Bug and not forgetting the Sky Rocket and Comet wooden roller coasters, and more. Chapter Points: Introduction; The Early Years (1812-1902); The N.O.T. and L. Years (1902-1926); Lake Park Theatre; A Personal Recollection; Maps; The Sinclair Years (1926-1979); Picnics; Moonlight Ballroom and Gardens; The Marathon Dance of 1933; Finis. Includes two music disks of the Big Band music once heard in the Moonlight Ballroom. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Recommended.
[BOOK 259] SUSAN SCHOTT KARR: SCREAM MACHINES - ALL ABOUT ROLLER COASTERS. [2004] (13x19cm - 34 Pages - Some small colour photos). A booklet full of interesting roller coaster facts and statistics geared mainly towards a teenage audience. Contents: The Thrill of the Ride; Roller Coasters Then and Now; How Do Coasters Work?; Designing a Scream Machine; Are Roller Coasters Safe?; In Search of the 'Best' Rides; Glossary; Index. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good for children.
[BOOK 260] DEBORAH LANGE: RESTORING THE GLEN ECHO PARK CAROUSEL. [2004] (22x29cm - 142 Pages - Full colour). This book tells the story of the restoration of the 1921 Dentzel menagerie carousel at Glen Echo Park (Glen Echo, Maryland). Between 1983 and 2003 the carousel was restored to the appearance it had when it was first delivered to the park in 1921. Chapter Points: The History of the Carousel; The Evolution of Restoration Techniques; Deciding to Restore the Carousel; The Parts of the Carousel; Preparing for Restoration; Restoring the: Indian Horse - Other Animals and Chariots - The Band Organ Facade - The Drum Panels and Pilasters - The Ceiling Panels - The Shell Sections - The Rounding Boards; Repair Techniques; Care and Maintenance; Catalogue of Animals and Chariots; Materials List; Index. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Recommended.
[BOOK 261] KAREL LOEFF & HENNIE VAN OERS: DE CAKEWALK - HISTORISCH OVERZICHT KERMIS-ATTRACTIES. [2004] (15x21cm - 50 Pages - Many B&W photos). [6 of 8]. A publication dedicated to the history, growth in popularity, and current status of Netherlands fun houses, cakewalks, folly halls and schimmy houses. Selected Chapter Points: Introduction; The Name; The Movement Simulated; The First Dutch Cakewalks; The German Alternative; A Period of Popularity; A New Dancing - The Schimmy; Schimmy House and Wembley Attractions; The Metamorphosis of an Attraction; The Facade Sets the Scene; Manufacturers; New Success; Dutch Cakewalks; Families, Operators and Entrepreneurs. (Dutch script throughout). ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[BOOK 262] A.R. SCHAEFER: ROLLER COASTERS. [2005] (18x23cm - 32 Pages - Many colour photos). Speed, power, performance, and fun! Ready for Wild Rides? Start off by exploring how roller coasters have evolved over the years, then discover why they continue to fascinate people today. Speeding down a steep hill at more than 100mph, new coasters are built every year, and they get faster all the time. Read about the history of roller coasters and how designers push the limits of height and speed. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[BOOK 263] TIM O'BRIEN: THE WAVE MAKER. [2005] (16x23cm - 352 Pages - Few B&W photos). The story of an innovative, restive and determined man who created two major genres of theme parks. Combine George Millay's visionary skills and intelligence with his unique personality and unflappable belief in himself, and you have an extraordinary story. This is the story of theme park pioneer George Millay and the creation of SeaWorld sea-life parks, Magic Mountain theme park, and Wet'n Wild waterparks, in detail, as it has never been told before. Each year tens of millions of people enjoy activities in parks created or inspired by Mr. George Millay; the unchallenged father of the Waterpark industry. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Excellent.
[BOOK 264] MICHAEL E. COSTELLO: CONNEAUT LAKE PARK. [2005] (16x23cm - 128 Pages - Many B&W photos). In 1877 a humble boat landing was constructed on Conneaut Lake, Pennsylvania's largest natural lake. Colonel Frank Mantor, a visionary, discovered and purchased the property. In 1892, Exposition Park -a permanent fair exhibiting machines and livestock- was founded. Amusement rides were added alongside hotels, cottages, restaurants and other businesses. The resort grew into an amusement park and was renamed Conneaut Lake Park in 1920. Featuring many long-gone attractions including the Wild Mouse, Blue Streak, Tumble Bug, the Devil's Den and more. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[BOOK 265] JASON RHODES: MARYLAND'S AMUSEMENT PARKS. [2005] (16x23cm - 128 Pages - Many B&W photos). From Ferris wheels to roller coasters to tunnels of love, everyone has a favourite amusement park memory. For nearly 130 years, many of those memories have been made at Maryland's amusement parks. Today only five exist, but throughout history, nearly three dozen have been part of Maryland's landscape. This publication offers a glimpse of those parks and how they helped millions quench their thirst for recreation. Chapter Points: Introduction; Western Maryland Parks; Glen Echo Park; Washington Area Parks; Baltimore Area Parks; The Enchanted Forest; Southern Maryland Parks; Eastern Shore Parks; Trimper's Rides and Amusements; Ocean City Parks. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[BOOK 266] SEAN & JOHANNA BILLINGS: INDIAN TRAIL AND EDGEMONT AMUSEMENT PARKS. [2005] (16x23cm - 128 Pages - Many B&W photos). This book highlights the history of the two legendary amusement parks in Lehigh Township. Unique images cover Indian Trail Park from its founding by Samuel and William Solliday in 1929 to its closing in 1984. Photographs of Edgemont Park recall its days as a trolley park, started by the Blue Ridge Traction Company. These images are sure to bring back memories of the rides, games, and thrills that kept people coming back year after year. Chapter Points: Indian Trail Park, The Beginning; Indian Trail Park, Changing Owners; Indian Trail Park, Hard Times; Edgemont Park, The Early Years; Edgemont Park, The Final Years. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair.
[BOOK 267] STEPHEN COPNALL: PLEASURELAND MEMORIES. [2005] (20x26cm - 100 Pages - Many B&W photos). Pleasureland Amusement Park (Southport, England) has been a major feature of the town's tourist industry since the 1920s and long before that the seaward side of the town was synonymous with public amusement. This work tells the story of how the park rose from the foreshore sands despite opposition from Southport's elite. Since then Pleasureland has ridden the roller coaster of change. From the very early promise of being a rival to Blackpool's Pleasure Beach it endured the tribulations of wartime requisition, but bounced back in spectacular fashion in its 1950s heyday. Changing tastes led to a period of decline; however, the park is enjoying renewed success at the dawn of the 21st Century. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Excellent.
[BOOK 268] MANCHESTER EVENING NEWS: BELLE VUE - MANCHESTER'S PLAYGROUND. [2005] (19x25cm - 128 Pages - Many B&W, few colour photos). For over 150 years, Belle Vue (Manchester, England) was the entertainment centre of the North West. What started off as a small Zoological Gardens soon developed into a place for dancing, fun on the fair, firework displays, music, sport, boating, greyhound racing, and a multitude of dining areas. At its zenith, an incredible two million people a year visited Belle Vue, with over 170,000 recorded on one single day. Chapter Points: Introduction; Zoo; Funfair; Circus; Music; Sport; Speedway; Conclusion. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[BOOK 269] VINCE GARGIULO: PALISADES AMUSEMENT PARK. [2005] (16x23cm - 128 Pages - Many B&W photos). High atop the Palisades cliffs once stood Palisades Amusement Park (Cliffside Park, New Jersey), the home of the famous Cyclone roller coaster, the Tunnel of Love, and the many other rides that even today, several decades after it closed, are still warmly remembered. For those who ever visited the park, this book is sure to bring back cherished memories and re-create the thrills, laughter, and joy that was Palisades. Chapter Points: The Trolley Park (1898-1909); The Schenck Brothers (1910-1934); The Rosenthal Era (1935-1971). ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[BOOK 270] ERNO ROSSI: CRYSTAL BEACH - THE GOOD OLD DAYS. [2005] (15x23cm - 188 Pages - Many B&W, few colour photos). An interesting collection (hundreds) of memories of Crystal Beach Amusement Park (Ontario, Canada) submitted by some of the patrons and colleagues over the years. See the many thrill and family rides, the roller coasters, (Backety-Back Scenic Railway, Cyclone, Comet, Wild Mouse) stalls and sideshows, and learn more about them from the people that worked there. Read about the many big band orchestras that wowed Ballroom audiences during the '40s and '50s, and share memories of dance marathons, roller coaster marathons aboard the Comet, and other special events. Crystal Beach Amusement Park is indeed greatly missed. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair.
[BOOK 271] ALEC PRICE: FROM A SAINT TO A KING - THE HISTORY OF PARK HALL, CHARNOCK RICHARD. [2005] (15x21cm - 74 Pages - Few B&W photos and sketches). Lancashire writer Alec Price first became intrigued by the history of Park Hall (Chorley, England) in the 1970s when he worked there as a swimming pool manager. Through interviews and local research he pieced together the story of Park Hall since its early times as a possible resting place for the body of St Cuthbert in the ninth century up to the present day as a thriving leisure complex and home to the famous Camelot theme park. So his book takes us on a journey through time: from a saint to a king. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair / Good.
[BOOK 272] DAVID KOENIG: MOUSE TALES - GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL EDITION. [2005] (16x24cm - 288 Pages - Few B&W photos). Celebrating Disneyland's Golden Anniversary, and limited to just 4,000 copies. A completely expanded and updated edition of Mouse Tales, A Behind The Ears look at Disneyland. Featuring: "When the Magic Began," a whole new chapter reliving the first months of Walt's Magic Kingdom, as told by the park's pioneers. Also includes: "A Walk in the Park: a Guided Tour of Disneyland in 1955," a 60-minute audio CD featuring Mouse Tales author David Koenig and nostalgia radio personality Randy Brian recreating a trip to the Disneyland of a half-century ago. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair / Good.
[BOOK 273] OLD YORK ROAD HISTORICAL SOCIETY: WILLOW GROVE PARK. [2005] (16x23cm - 128 Pages - Many B&W photos). Willow Grove Park (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) opened on Decoration Day 1896 and drew crowds by the thousands. It was estimated that over one million people visited the park during its first season of operation. One of the primary goals of the Park's management was to provide and maintain a civilised and enlightened cultural atmosphere. Over the years, management spent significant sums of money building new rides and replacing those that had gone out of favour. Most of the rides were located along the midway, and the Thunderbolt roller coaster was built to satisfy. Chapter Points: On the Way to Willow Grove; Beginnings 1895-1904; Heyday 1905-1925; Interlude & Reprise 1926-1953; Renaissance & Decline 1954-1975; Epilogue 1976-2005. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[BOOK 274] GARY S. CROSS & JOHN K. WALTON: THE PLAYFUL CROWD - PLEASURE PLACES IN THE TWENTIETH CENTURY. [2005] (18x22cm - 310 Pages - Few B&W photos). Blackpool and Coney Island were the definitive playgrounds of the industrial working class. Teeming crowds partook of a gritty vulgarity that offered a variety of pleasures and thrills, from roller coaster rides to dance halls and dioramas of exotic locales. This publication explores the resorts' very different fates as Coney Island is now a mere shadow of its former self while Blackpool continues to lure visitors and offer new attractions. Selected Chapter Points: Introduction; Coney Island and Blackpool about 1900; Industrial Saturnalia and the Playful Crowd; The Crowd and its Critics; Decline and Reinvention; The Disney Challenge; The Crowd Transformed? ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[BOOK 275] LARRY K. & LORNA COLLINS: 31 MONTHS IN JAPAN - THE BUILDING OF A THEME PARK. [2005] (15x23cm - 222 Pages - Very few B&W photos). The story of two Southern Californians embarking on an adventure of a lifetime - moving to Japan to participate in the construction of the Universal Studios Japan theme park. Combining interesting details and behind the scenes descriptions of how magic is made in the entertainment industry with funny and touching personal remembrances. The stories will be of particular interest to those visiting or intending to work/live in Japan, people doing business with the Japanese, theme park aficionados and anyone with a sense of adventure. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair / Good.
[BOOK 276] TIVOLI GARDENS - THE STORY OF THE FAIRYTALE GARDEN. [2005] (19x27cm - 66 Pages - Full colour). Take a stroll through enchanting Tivoli Gardens (Copenhagen, Denmark), and learn fascinating facts about Denmark's biggest attraction: its history, its founding father and his friendship with Hans Christian Andersen. Tivoli Gardens is unique. A Chinese pagoda-pastiche or a Turkish-inspired building with cupolas and minarets can of course be copied - but not Tivoli's fairytale atmosphere of lights and sound, colour and adventure. Selected Chapter Points: The Oasis; The Tivoli Lake; Architecture and Design; The Illuminations; The Rides; Dining; Denmark's Golden Age; Tivoli's Founder; Tivoli 1843; Dark Times; Christmas at Tivoli. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Recommended.
[BOOK 277] REINVENTING THE WHEEL - THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE BRITISH AIRWAYS LONDON EYE. [2005 REPRINT] (28x30cm - 206 Pages - Full colour). The culmination of more than five years of extensive planning - first by Marks Barfield Architects alone and later in partnership with British Airways and the Tussaud's Group - construction of this remarkable project finally commenced in October 1998. Often quoted as a two-year project completed in just 15 months, even this does little justice to the incredible dedication and perseverance of a truly international team of designers, engineers, project managers, steel fabricators, capsule manufacturers, systems specialists and many others who devoted themselves to this project's completion. Chapter Points: Foreword; The Concept; The Rim; The Hub and Spindle; The Site; Site Assembly; The Uplift; The Capsules; The Wheel Completed; Credits. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Recommended.
[BOOK 278] SHORELINE HISTORICAL MUSEUM: ONCE UPON A TIME IN PLAYLAND. [2005] (22x28cm - 40 Pages - Many B&W photos). From 1930 to 1960 Playland Amusement Park (Seattle, Washington) did more than just amuse the population. It became the darling of the northwest throughout the Depression and beyond, entertaining many thousands more. It was the last trolley park to be built in the United States, and throughout World War II, Playland presented one of the few opportunities to have fun inexpensively. Chapter Points: Introduction (Kay Schlegel); Bitter Lake Amusement Company; Playland Beginnings; The Fun House; Entertainment and Oddities; The Dipper; The Train; Shoot the Chutes; The Red Bug; More Rides; Getting There; The Fire of 1953; Aurora Speedway; Fond Memories. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair.
[BOOK 279] KAREL LOEFF & HENNIE VAN OERS: DE EMOTIEBAAN - HISTORISCH OVERZICHT KERMIS-ATTRACTIES. [2005] (15x21cm - 50 Pages - Many B&W photos). [7 of 8]. Exploring the history of the Ghost Train and the Haunted House. This popular attraction dates back to the late 19th Century, as the Prater in Vienna debuted 'Grottenbaan.' The haunted house appeared in Germany in 1931 and the Netherlands followed immediately. Selected Chapter Points: Introduction; The Grottenbaan; From Exhibitions to Park Attractions; Patents; Debut in the Netherlands; Uniqueness; Cast-Off or a New Life?; The Facade; The Spooks; Coming in 2005; Well-known Dutch Phantom Houses: Geisterburg, King Kong Horror Haus, Roll-on Ghoster, etc...; Bibliography. (Dutch script throughout). ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[BOOK 280] JIM FUTRELL: AMUSEMENT PARKS OF NEW YORK. [2006] (15x23cm - 232 Pages - Many B&W photos). New York State is home to an extensive collection of amusement parks and attractions, New York has it all! Selected Chapter Points: A History of Amusement Parks in New York; Coney Island; Seabreeze Park; Sylvan Beach Park; Midway Park; Playland; Santa's Workshop; Hoffman's Playland; The Great Escape & Splashwater Kingdom; Enchanted Forest/Water Safari; Martin's Fantasy Island; Adventureland; Magic Forest; Nellie Bly Park; Six Flags Darien Lake. New York's Smaller Parks: Catskill Game Farm; Harris Hill Park; Long Island Game Farm; Fun Zone; Boomers! Olcott Beach Carousel Park; Victorian Gardens; Other Amusement Facilities. Also includes: Index of major rides in operation in New York. An educational read. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Recommended.
[BOOK 281] FRANK J.M. ROMIJN: ROLLER COASTER GIANTS. [2006] (23x27cm - 156 Pages - Full colour throughout). A publication to bring enthusiasts right up to date (2006) in the coastering world. Features chapters on: Coaster History; Technical Issues; Coaster Design & Construction; Werner Stengel; Bolliger & Mabillard; Intamin; Vekoma; Steel Coasters in Europe; Wooden Coasters in Europe; European Coaster Index; Japanese Coasters; World Records; Coaster Jargon/Terms. Contains large -sometimes full page- colour photos of your favourite coasters - Rita: Queen of Speed; Kingda Ka; Stealth (Thorpe Park); X (SFMM); Top Thrill Dragster; Thunder Dolphin (Japan); White Cyclone (Japan); Kanonen, Booster Bike, and dozens more. (Dutch script throughout). ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Excellent.
[BOOK 282] FRED BROMWICH: DRAYTON MANOR - GEORGE & VERA BRYAN'S MEMORIES OF A FAMILY FUN PARK. [2006] (21x30cm - 90 Pages - Many B&W and colour photos). When Drayton Manor Theme Park (Staffordshire, England) was originally opened to the public in 1950 by its current owners, the Bryan family, it was the unsophisticated era of the day-tripper - when families were happy to take a bus journey into the countryside for afternoon tea and spend a relaxing few hours away from the hustle and bustle of factory life. Not for them the heady heights of Shockwave, which was introduced in 1994 as Europe's only stand-up roller coaster or white knuckle rides such as Pandemonium, where your world is turned upside down. So how did it all begin? This publication charts the history of the Midlands' best-loved leisure venue. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[BOOK 283] EDITH REYNOLDS: SAVIN ROCK AMUSEMENT PARK. [2006] (16x23cm - 128 Pages - Many B&W photos). Savin Rock Amusement Park (West Haven, Connecticut) began to grow in the 1870s when George Kelsey constructed a pier to extend ferry service between the opposite coastlines of New Haven Harbor. This opened the door for further, more sophisticated development of amusement attractions that drew fun-seeking patrons from southern New England. The park thrived until the combination of affordable personal transportation and urban redevelopment forced its demise in the 1960s. Today Savin Rock is a quieter spot filled with beachside apartments, a shopping plaza, and a more tranquil grassy park jutting into the harbor. Chapter Points: The West Shore; Kelsey's Plan; The Grove; Savin Restaurants; The Golden Age; The Flying Horses; Mechanized Rides; On The Wane; Urban Renewal. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[BOOK 284] PAT KOCH & JANE AMMESON: HOLIDAY WORLD. [2006] (16x23cm - 128 Pages - Many B&W photos). Louis J. Koch had a dream - one of family, fun, and Christmastime year-round. And so he created Santa Claus Land, the nation's first theme park in Santa Claus, located in the gentle rolling hills of southern Indiana. Now, six decades later Koch's legacy lives on at Holiday World and Splashin' Safari. The park is still owned by the Koch family, and the park's wooden roller coasters are rated in the top ten of coaster enthusiasts worldwide. Since Pat Koch was a little girl, Santa Claus Land has been an important part of her life. Chapter Points: In the Beginning; Santa Claus Land; The Little Park That Could; On Santa's Knee; Generations; Holiday World & Splashin' Safari; Wood is Good. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[BOOK 285] AMERICAN COASTER ENTHUSIASTS: 2006 WORLDWIDE ROLLER COASTER CENSUS. (21x28cm - 100 Pages). The complete catalogue of all operating coasters worldwide. A comprehensive list detailing: coaster type, manufacturer, year debuted, park, statistics, location (state/country) etc... ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair.
[BOOK 286] ALISON HAWES: BIG, FAST RIDES. [2006] (13x20cm - 34 Pages - Full colour). An item of juvenile literature, sure to appeal to young thrill-seekers. A loopy book of fun facts about roller coasters. Find out how they started, how they were built, and where you can find the biggest, the fastest and the scariest rides of all. Chapter Points: Roller Coasters; Wooden Roller Coasters; Steel Roller Coasters; Six of the Best UK; Six of the Best USA; Index. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good for children.
[BOOK 287] TIM HOLLIS: SIX FLAGS OVER GEORGIA. [2006] (16x23cm - 128 Pages - Many B&W photos). When SFoG (Austell, Georgia) opened in June 1967, it became the first theme park in the Southeast. Although the park is best known today for its high-speed coasters, here we recapture its earlier years when it was devoted to the various periods of Georgia's history. This book also explores how the park's focus changed and expanded over the decades and takes a look at some of its classic advertising and souvenirs. Chapter Points: Introduction; Six Flags Over Yesterday; Marching through Georgia (and Britain); The Confederate Section; Tales of the Okefenokee; The Spanish Section; The French Section; Jean Ribaut's Adventure; The USA Section; Beyond the Six Flags; An Unflagging Publicity Campaign. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[BOOK 288] JAMES FAIRLEY: FUN IS OUR BUSINESS - THE STORY OF BARRY'S AMUSEMENTS. [2006] (21x30cm - 272 Pages - Many B&W photos). "Barry's" (Port Rush, County Antrim) will signify little to most people in the British Isles. To nearly everyone living in Northern Ireland, however, it is synonymous with all-consuming fun by the seaside. For after some eighty years, Barry's Amusements in Co. Antrim, the biggest and brightest amusement park in Ireland, has acquired the status of an institution. Selected Chapter Points: Barry's Predecessors at Portrush; Early Years (to 1923); The Business Prospers (1924-28); Belfast (1929-55); Bangor (1940-87); Portrush (1940-2005). ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[BOOK 289] TIM O'BRIEN: LEGENDS - PIONEERS OF THE AMUSEMENT PARK INDUSTRY. [2006] (15x23cm - 268 Pages - Many B&W photos). Highlighting ten pioneers who were instrumental in shaping the twentieth century fun park landscape. Presented here are the most detailed and comprehensive biographies about these individuals. Chapter Points: Introduction; George Millay (Father of the waterpark industry); Carl Hughes (The first president of IAAPA); Bo Kinntorph (IAAPA president & CEO of Liseberg Park); Marty Sklar (Creative guru for Walt Disney Parks); Harrison Price (Introduced professional data analysis into the industry); Dr. Roberto Ortiz (Created Costa Rica's first theme park); John Graff (Changed the global landscape of the industry); Harold Chance (Founder of Chance Rides); Ron Toomer (Revolutionised the design and building of steel coasters); Jeff Henry (Industry visionary and waterpark ride designer). ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Excellent.
[BOOK 290] PAMELA CASSIDY WHITENACK: HERSHEYPARK. [2006] (16x23cm - 128 Pages - Many B&W photos). A well-known destination for family fun and amusement, Hersheypark (Hershey, Pennsylvania) has entertained and engaged visitors for more than 100 years. The park was an important part of Milton S. Hershey's plans for his new model industrial town, built for the workers of the Hershey Chocolate factory. In 1903, even before the factory was completed, he set aside land to be used as a park for picnics and family outings. While originally established as a community park, it soon developed into an amusement park as thousands of people flocked to Hershey each year to visit the chocolate factory and model town. This book portrays the origin of Hershey Park, and its successful transition into a themed amusement destination, at a time when many traditional parks faltered and failed. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[BOOK 291] DEVIN OLSON: TRACKING THE THRILLS - A GUIDE TO NORTH AMERICA'S ROLLER COASTER THRILL PARKS. [2006] (15x23cm - 140 Pages - Many colour photos). Whether you're the occasional park visitor or devoted thrill-seeker, here is your guide through North America! For each of fifty parks featured, you will discover a wealth of information, with comprehensive listings and honest reviews. You will also find valuable tips and recommendations for each park. This is your guide to ride on the wild side. Featured Articles: The Birth of a Phenomenon - Tracing the American Theme Park. From Dreams to Screams - The Making of a Modern Coaster. Commitment to Safety - Relentless Effort to Keep Thrills Rideable. Where to Go From Here - Following the Patterns Through Time. Coasting on Enthusiasm - An Obsession with Extreme Rides. Advice From the Inside - Get the Most Thrill for Your Dollar. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair.
[BOOK 292] TORRENCE JENKINS JR: HERBERT P. SCHMECK - THE FORGOTTEN LEGACY. [2006] (20x26cm - 162 Pages - Many B&W and colour photos). Herbert Paul Schmeck (1890-1956) fundamentally represented Philadelphia Toboggan Company (PTC) from the year 1922 to 1954. The talent and diversity this man possessed was evident in the designs that came off his drafting table, his flawless roller coaster designs made amusement park patrons laugh and scream themselves silly throughout sixty seconds of controlled fear. Chapter Points: Foreword (By Thomas D. Rebbie); The Apprentice Who Catapulted PTC's Business; Growth and Record Profits at PTC; Innovation During the Depression; World War II and Post War Coasters. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Excellent / Recommended.
[BOOK 293] DOUGLAS W. SEED, KATHERINE KHALIFE: CANOBIE LAKE PARK. [2006] (11x16cm - 130 Pages - Many B&W photos). Canobie Lake Park (Salem, New Hampshire) was opened in August 1902 by the Massachusetts Northeastern trolley company. It provided New Englanders with a shared recreational experience regardless of age, ethnicity, or social status. Since then, generations have played, met, danced, and fallen in love at the park. This book tells the fascinating history of this great New Hampshire landmark, and illustrates the people, the events, and the everyday scenes that have made Canobie Lake Park a favourite destination for over a century. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[BOOK 294] SHARON L.D. KRAYNEK, ELI R. BEACHY: CHIPPEWA LAKE PARK - THE GLORY YEARS 1930-1949. [2006] (22x28cm - 236 Pages - Few B&W and colour photos). An extensive chronological compilation of newspaper articles concerning Chippewa Lake Park (Medina, Ohio). Featuring photos of the park's hotel, rides (Tumble Bug, Kiddie Train, Big Dipper, Rocket Ships) midway, dance hall and boating lake. There are also many poster reproductions advertising the special events that took place at Chippewa Lake Park across two glorious decades. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair.
[BOOK 295] KAREN LEWIT DUNN: EXPLORING SCIENCE - SCREAM MACHINES. [2006] (17x22cm - 24 Pages - Full colour). A light read for those budding roller coaster designers of tomorrow. Explores scientific terms such as: kinetic energy, potential energy, friction and gravity. Chapter Points: Roller Coasters; How Roller Coasters Work; Two Types of Roller Coasters; The Best Seat; Index. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good for children.
[BOOK 296] NORMAN JAMES PRICE: HILLSIDE PLEASURE PARK. [2006] (22x28cm - 104 Pages - Many colour images). For more than two decades, Hillside Pleasure Park (Belleville, New Jersey) had it all. It was inexpensive - admission was a dime. Rides were five cents. You could eat yourself through the day for around a dollar-fifty. Shows were free. So were the colour, excitement, music, dancing and conviviality. Belleville was the entertainment centre of the region. Hillside Pleasure Park: 1905-1927. Chapter Points: Entertainment!; Where Was It?; In The Beginning; The Great Roller Coaster; Vaudeville; Airships And Balloons; The Wild West Shows; Photo Gallery; In The News; The Candle Flickers; Recollections; Epilogue. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair.
[BOOK 297] JAMES LILLIEFORS: AMERICA'S BOARDWALKS - FROM CONEY ISLAND TO CALIFORNIA. [2006] (22x24cm - 210 Pages - Many B&W, some colour photos). Gaudy, alluring, bright, loud and lucrative; they are the nation's boardwalks. In a time of Victorian values, the seashore resort represented an intoxicating alternative to American life. As boardwalks evolved, they increasingly offered roller coasters, funhouses and Ferris wheels. Chapter Points: Introduction; Atlantic City, New Jersey. Coney Island, New York. Asbury Park, New Jersey. Wildwood, New Jersey. Cape May, New Jersey. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Ocean City, Maryland. Virginia Beach, Virginia. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Daytona Beach, Florida. Venice Beach, California. Santa Cruz, California. Acknowledgments; Selected Bibliography. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[BOOK 298] FRANK RUSH III: COME HAVE FUN WITH FRANK RUSH AT CRATERVILLE PARK AND SANDY LAKE AMUSEMENT PARK. [2006] (15x23cm - 384 Pages - Many B&W photos). The history of Craterville Park (Oklahoma) and Sandy Lake Amusement Park (Texas) 1800s-2005. Selected Chapter Points: Hey, Cowboy! Let's Talk!; Introduction; The Rush Family Tree; Where Did the Train Come From?; Where's this Train Going?; All Aboard For Sandy Lake Amusement Park, (Includes Jerry Nowak's "The Sandy Lake March;" Pulling Out of the Station in 1971; Fun Facts; High Diving Mules; The Family Circus; The Show Goes On; Company Picnics; Nearly Derailed at the Bush Tollway; Sandy Lake Park Christmas; Remembering Old Craterville Park; More About Craterville Park; Let's Rodeo; Meers Store; What Would Mr. Bicket Do?; Going Once, Going Twice, Sold!; The Wrong Track; Nearing the End of the Line; The Last Stop; Acknowledgements. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair.
[BOOK 299] NICK LAISTER: PENNIES BY THE SEA - THE LIFE AND TIMES OF JOYLAND AMUSEMENTS, BRIDLINGTON. [2006] (20x26cm - 124 Pages - Many B&W photos). The story of what was Britain's largest amusement arcade. It's a rags to riches tale of how a glove seller from Sheffield market turned a collection of buildings on Bridlington seafront into a fabulous entertainment complex with slot machines, fairground rides and amazing sideshows. Selected Chapter Points: Introduction; Bridlington's Wonderland; Before Joyland; Early Amusement Arcades; The Firth Family - Luna Park; Charlotte Yvonne Brown - The Birth of Joyland; Harry and Sidney Brown - Stability and Success; Peter and Robert Brown - Joyland Amusement Park; John Noble and Sons - Joyland Shrinks, Joyland Grows; The Rides and Attractions; About the Author; Further Reading. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Recommended.
[BOOK 300] JASON SURRELL: PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN - FROM THE MAGIC KINGDOM TO THE MOVIES. [2006] (22x28cm - 150 Pages - Full colour). Read how the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction made the voyage to all four corners of the world - with rare early concept sketches and never-before-published original story concepts. We will also take a virtual tour through the attraction showcasing variations and enhancements at each Disney theme park. Selected Chapter Points: Forewords (Martin A. Sklar and Tom Fitzgerald); Disney and the Magic Kingdom; The Spanish Main: (The Port of New Orleans, Laffite's Landing, The Blue Bayou, Approaching the Waterfall, Entering the Grotto, Dead Man's Cove, Hurricane Lagoon, Crew's Quarters, Treasure Room, Ghostly Grotto, Bombarding the Fort, The Well, The Auction, The Chase, The Burning Town, The Jail, The Arsenal, The Upramp). ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Recommended.