This is the original Mary Poppins, written by P.L. Travers and, not surprisingly, it differs significantly from the Disney version. It is not so much the storyline that differs, as many of the scenes from the movie come directly from the book. There is Bert, who journeys with Mary into a magical afternoon inside one of his paintings (although here he is a poor struggling match seller rather than a chimney sweep); there is the visit to Mary's uncle who can't stop laughing and who soon has everyone else laughing and floating around the ceiling, also. There are also several scenes that I don't remember from the movie, although granted I only saw it once when I was 7 or 8 years old, so there is a good chance I've forgotten much: the magical visit to the zoo in the middle of the night, when the animals are roaming around and the humans are in the cages; the scene involving the baby Banks twins and their ability to communicate with animals (and Mary's, as well); the Christmas shopping scene with Maia, one of the plaeides (sp?).
But the major difference is in the personality of Mary herself. The Disney version was a kinder and gentler Mary; indeed, according to the Wiki article P.L. Travers had a major falling-out with Disney over, among other things, the way they softened Mary. In this original she is ascerbic and cranky (the only time she is friendly and gentle is in the scene with Bert), and extremely vain. Not the mild vanity of Julie Andrews who declared herself "practically perfect in every way"; this original Mary is absurdly vain, constantly admiring herself in mirrors, windows, any surface that offers a reflection, and carrying her umbrella everywhere in order to proudly show off its parrot head handle.
There is also a slight difference in the Banks family, also. I remember the movie giving the impression that Jane and Michael were somewhat neglected by their too-busy parents, and that Mary Poppins magically came along to give them the love, attention and training they lacked. However, the book doesn't give this impression; Mr. Banks is indeed busy with his job but Mrs. Banks, far from the campaigning sufragette of the movie, is simply a somewhat harried mother of four whose personality is fairly bland. It is not clear why Mary Poppins suddenly appears, other than the fact that the Banks are in need of a nanny after theirs leaves without notice. And it is not clear why she suddenly leaves, since she didn't seem to accomplish any sort of "mission" with the Banks children.
Nevertheless, this is a delighful story that is well suited for family listening. Sophie Thompson's narration is superb; she is a master at voices and adds color and personality to every character.
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Reviews with images
Not a Hardcover!
Mary Poppins: 80th Anniversary Collection Hardcover – October 21, 2014, 1024 pagesThis edition is okay. However, you should be aware that it's not a hardcover book. but a perfect bound one even if its cover is hard. The book feels really awkward and may not be comfortable to read due to its thickness. The print is great though, and paper's not bad either. If you're after a quality edition of Mary Poppins, buy them single hardcover books, this one containing four books, doesn't look or feel as a proper hardcover book for almost 20 dollars. Avoid.
Top reviews from other countries
Irene Greiner
Ein schöner Film für Schulkinder.
Reviewed in Germany on May 11, 2022