Ears of Steel

October 28, 2013
In this unconventional travel guide, Scott attempts to disprove the myth that Walt Disney World is only for children by "highlighting the most testosterone-filled, white-knuckling, chest-beating, manly attractions and activities." He breaks down accommodation options by budget and details the pros and cons of the major resorts. The subsequent chapters are organized by park, including Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Magic Kingdom, where Scott directs readers on precisely what to see in what order and what to skip. Scott's descriptions take the reader right into the action, occasionally diminishing the element of surprise. His account of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror may induce vertigo. In Epcot's World Showcase, Scott reports where to stop at each of the major pavilions to get the best food and drinks including La Cava de Tequila's Blood Orange Margarita and Via Napoli's artisanal pizzas, complete with instructions for a drinking game. Further tips include the rides to avoid after eating, getting into the special reserved seating for Fantasmic! and most importantly, where to find alcohol in the Magic Kingdom. He even rates the restrooms. Note: if you don't like jokes about women bringing their husbands sandwiches, consider another guide.

October 15, 2013

Blogger and YA author Scott (Balaam) might seem like an unlikely writer for a guide to Walt Disney World, but he loves Disney and bases his tips on personal experiences at the theme park. Geared toward what he calls "real men," the book takes a nontraditional approach to the theme parks; it's written in a conversational, blog-like style instead of arranged in a traditional guidebook format. The title may offend some, as it assumes a "real man" is a stereotypical straight male, attributes a certain willingness to shop to most women, and asserts various other theses throughout. Scott does, however, provide useful information about the different parks, the best rides, food, and hotels, and generally the parts of Walt Disney World that he most recommends for adults. There is also a laugh-out-loud chapter on the best restrooms in the parks. VERDICT Not for readers looking for a standard guidebook but an excellent choice for anyone hoping to experience Disney as an unencumbered adult, male or female, as long as they are not easily offended by sexist stereotypes.--Sara Miller, Atlanta

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