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Of Mice and Magic

Of Mice and Magic

A History of American Animated Cartoons; Revised and Updated

About the Book

Whether you’re seeking movie gifts or something for the history buffs in your life, this comprehensive guide to animation and cartoons has it all. In this one-of-a-kind definitive history of American animated cartoons, renowned film critic and historian Leonard Maltin presents the most extensive filmography on cartoons ever compiled. 

In this revised and updated edition of Of Mice and Magic, Leonard Maltin not only recreates this whole glorious era from the silent days through the Hollywood golden age to Spielberg’s An American Tail, he traces the evolution of the art of animation and vividly portrays the key creative talents and their studios. This definitive history of American animated cartoons also brings Maltin’s many fans up to date on the work being done today at the Walt Disney and Warner Bros. studios, and other developments in the world of animation.

Drawing on colorful interviews with many of the American cartoon industry’s principals, Maltin has come up with a gold mine of anecdotes and film history. Behind the scenes were genius animators and entrepreneurs such as Walt Disney, Chuck Jones, Tex Avery, Mel Blanc, and a legion of others. In all, Maltin has put together a glorious celebration of a universally loved segment of Americana.

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Praise for Of Mice and Magic

"Informative and delightful … wonderful personal observations … Maltin has presented a history both readable and captivating."
—The Hollywood Reporter

"Lovingly detailed … wonderfully written … an excellent book."
—New York Times Book Review

"The most complete history of animation available."
—Los Angeles Times

"Maltin is an impressive archivist and a lively chronicler."
—Publisher's Weekly

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About the Author

Leonard Maltin
Leonard Maltin is one of America’s most respected film critics and historians. His many books include Of Mice and Magic: A History of American Animated Cartoons, Leonard Maltin's 151 Best Movies You've Never See, and Leonard Maltin's Movie Guide. He regularly appears on ReelzChannel and Turner Classic Movies and hosts a weekly podcast, Maltin on Movies, with his daughter, Jessie. He lives in Los Angeles, California. More by Leonard Maltin
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About the Author

Jerry Beck
Jerry Beck is an animation historian, author, and producer. More by Jerry Beck
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