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Disney's UP! Book Review

Reviewed by on May 10, 2009
Rating: 4 Star Rating

Read along as Carl and Russell soar to new heights in Disney’s UP!, a novel based on the upcoming animated film.

Author: Disney

All their lives Carl and his wife Ellie sought adventure. They idolized Charles Muntz, the greatest explorer[/kwlink] of all time, for his brave expeditions and Spirit of Adventure blimp. Carl saved up his money, planning to surprise Ellie with their first great adventure—a trip to Paradise Falls in South America. But that very day, Ellie passed away.


Up, Up and Away

Carl grew into a grumpy old man, still talking to Ellie as if she were there. When he accidently injures a construction worker, the court plans to send him to a retirement community. But Carl refuses to leave the home that he and his beloved wife shared. Instead, he crafts an ingenious escape plan: he blows up enough helium balloons to carry both him and his house into the sky.


Along For the Ride

There was one little snag in his escape plan—a young wilderness explorer named Russell was on Carl’s porch when the house took flight. And now he has no choice but to come along for the adventure. Together they sail to South America in search of Paradise Falls.


The Dogs’ Mission

When they land, they come face to face with a gigantic bird (that Russell affectionately names Kevin) and a pack of talking dogs. The dogs are trying to capture the giant bird for their master, but Russell is determined to protect it. In their efforts, Carl nearly loses his house, forcing him to choose what’s truly important: his home or the bird’s life.


The Bottom Line

Disney’s UP! is a hilarious, energetic and magical novel. At only 125 pages, it’s a quick and worthwhile read. The book comes with eight full-color screen shots from the movie, opening on May 29, 2009.


Disney's UP! Rating: 4


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