The Kingdom Keepers: Disney After Dark

In The Kingdom Keepers, all Disney characters are brought to life by The Magic of Belief, including the villains. Why might this be? What does it mean that the villains are believed in as much as the other characters? Consider these points as you reflect on the text:

• Does belief in good triumph over belief in evil? Why or why not?
• What are some reasons why people are drawn to the villains in Disney films?
• What does it mean that we never meet the leader of the Overtakers?

Teaching Suggestion: The Kingdom Keepers presents a unique insight into the idea of “Disney magic.” Pearson chooses to make not only kind and heroic characters come alive with belief, but also villains, making The Magic of Belief a force or power that is not entirely benevolent. Consider encouraging students to think about whether or not belief is always “good” and what constitutes “good” or “bad” in this respect. You may also wish to have students consider the ways in which Disney portrays villains. Depending on class level and student maturity, this could involve a discussion of how these characters have been racially coded and/or other stereotypes that they might build upon to create caricatures of certain identity groups, further Othering members of those communities.