Amusement parks have been a staple of California recreation and entertainment for over a century. First appearing along the beaches and multiplying up and down the coast, these parks ignited an industry that has seen tremendous change and innovation. Children's Fairyland-America's first theme park-and Knott's Berry Farm-the first children's park-set high standards for the amusement world. When Disneyland opened in 1955, amusement parks became destinations in themselves, transforming surrounding communities. Discover how these magical places came to be. Learn little-known secrets of 20 California parks and what makes them landmarks. For guests of all ages, California's theme parks offer an abundance of entertainment possibilities. 301color photos provide a unique glimpse into an industry that forever changed family entertainment. AUTHOR: Alex Miller had an annual pass to Disneyland when he was six. He has traveled the U. S. and Europe seeking amusement parks, and works at California's oldest amusement park, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk as an historian. Photographer Bryce Walker graduated in photography from U. C. Santa Cruz. He does commercial work and shoots candid images of daily life. SELLING POINTS: ? Visit 20 parks and learn their history ? See rides and events that thrill ? Plan a trip to each one 310 colour photographs