Legends: Pioneers of the Amusement Park Industry

Legends: Pioneers of the Amusement Park Industry, is a multi-book series that pays homage to the greatest of the great - those who made the amusement parks, theme parks and waterparks what they are today. There have been hundreds of books written on individual parks, on individual rides and attractions and on the business as a whole, while few have been written specifically about the people who dedicated their lives to creating the industry in which we all love. This series by Tim O'Brien and Ripley Publishing adds faces and personality to the rich history of the industry.

This first volume highlights 10 pioneers who were instrumental in shaping the 20th century fun park landscape. Presented here are the most detailed and comprehensive biographies ever written about these individuals. Written in a casual and easy to read style, the passion of these pioneers beautifully shines through.

Pioneers included in this volume are: Harrison "Buzz" Price, who created, and then introduced professional data analysis into the industry; George Millay, visionary who created the SeaWorld marine park concept and Wet'n Wild, the world's first waterpark; Ron Toomer, roller coaster designer, with more than 80 coasters to his credit; Jeff Henry, waterpark ride creator and visionary; Harold Chance, founder of Chance Rides; Dr. Roberto Ortiz, Costa Rican physician who created the country's first theme park to raise money for his children's hospital; John Graff, 20-year president of International Assn. of Amusement Parks & Attractions (IAAPA); Bo Kinntorph, first international president of IAAPA and CEO of Liseberg Park in Sweden; Carl Hughes, first non-owner president of IAAPA, and a catalyst in modernizing the association; and Marty Sklar, creative guru for Walt Disney Parks for more than 50 years.