A Disney Visit to Parmatown Mall, Parma, Ohio, USA, 1997
(catalog number 225Y-065-008)

IN THE spring of 1997, I was in the Parmatown Mall, in Parma, Ohio, photographing a typical mall in Middle America for David Friend at Life magazine. Luckily, on that weekend Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, and Goofy came to the mall. Each child was allowed to meet one of the special Disney characters. Hundreds of children and their parents lined up for hours.

There was a strict time schedule for each of the characters, who appeared separately. This wouldn't have been a problem if Minnie hadn't been so popular. There were many temper tantrums when Minnie's time was up. A disappointed child who had waited in line for hours had to meet Goofy or Pluto instead of the beloved Minnie.

The reaction of the children to the Disney characters was fascinating. Some were delighted, and others were terrified. After all, it's scary when a huge mouse or dog wants to hug you and shake your hand.

This little boy had a mixed reaction: fear and wonder.