MAKING MARY POPPINS The Sherman Brothers, Walt Disney, and the Creation of a Classic Film

Al Kessel delivers an efficient narration of Todd James Pierce's deep dive into the music of 1964's highest grossing movie, "Mary Poppins," featuring Julie Andrews as the musical English nanny and Dick Van Dyke as the charming chimney sweep. Pierce profiles the two obscure songwriters, brothers Richard and Robert Sherman, who wrote nearly all the music and lyrics at Walt's personal request. Kessel's narration is precise, controlled, and a bit nasal. His voice lacks the warmth, lightness of spirit, and enthusiasm that the movie evokes. Nonetheless, the audiobook may have listeners considering another viewing of the film classic. [Published: JANUARY 2026]