If you’re a Disney fan, you know that Moana hits theaters this Thanksgiving and you are extremely excited for Walt Disney Animation Studios’ 56th animated masterpiece. Disney Press is ready to fuel your anticipation with four books currently available, ranging in recommended age from as young as 6 to a book for ages “18 and up.” Get ready to feel the Pacific Island spirit early with these four new releases.
The Story of Moana
Nothing is more important in a Disney animated film than the story, so the best place to start is to learn the story in the most detailed way available. The Story of Moana: A Tale of Courage and Adventure is a 300-page hardcover deluxe novelization that beautifully recreates the film. Not only that, it also adds Oceanic folk tales between chapters that reveal the inspirations behind Disney’s upcoming feature.
While aimed at 3rd-7th graders, this is the most complete retelling for any fan who wants to know the ins-and-outs of the story before seeing the film. For a little more information on plot and content, including a bonus item, be sure to read the full review.
Disney Read-Along: Moana Storybook and CD
The tradition of Disney Read-Along books continues with the Moana Storybook and CD set. This softcover picture book features artwork that recreates iconic moments from the film. It’s a quicker telling of the main story beats that looses some of the emotion that’s found in the richer novelization, but it’s perfect for kids and comes with a recommendation for ages 6 to 8.
The CD itself lasts about 20-minutes and features some audio from the film, including the voices of Moana (Auli’i Cravalho) and Maui (Dwayne Johnson). It’s narrated by New Zealand actress Rachel House and features sound effects and traditional Oceanic music to help set the tone. For more information, read the full review.
Moana and the Ocean
In just a few words, readers are introduced to Moana from the point of view of the sea in Moana and the Ocean. With beautiful artwork from Disney artist Annette Marnat, readers can watch Moana grow up alongside the ocean and celebrate her courageous spirit. This beautiful hardcover picture book makes a perfect bedtime story.
While Moana and the Ocean doesn’t attempt to retell the story like the first two books do, readers will subtly notice a few moments from the film represented. It stays almost exclusively on Moana, often in close ups, and only a handful of other characters are featured (no Maui in this one). For more details, check out the full review.
Art of Coloring: Moana
Looking for a calm and peaceful way to relax while celebrating Disney’s newest animated feature? Why not try adult coloring? The fifth Disney-branded adult coloring book exclusively features Moana and creative images that transport you back to Motunui.
With highly detailed collages inspired by Maui’s tattoos and character artwork of nearly every character in the film, this highly detailed coloring book is a perfect way to flex your creative muscles while relaxing and de-stressing. This is not your average kids coloring book and comes with a recommendation of ages 18 and up. For more information on the contents and packaging, here’s a more in-depth review.
All four of these books are now available over a month before the film debuts. Moana is a beautiful story with wonderful characters that fans are sure to cherish forever. It’s great to see Disney making these new friends accessible to all of their fans, from the young to the young at heart.