Pocket Essentials is a dynamic series of books that are concise, lively, and easy to read. Packed with facts as well as expert opinions, each book has all the key information you need to know about such popular topics as film, television, cult fiction, history, and more. From the moment Mickey Mouse stepped aboard Steamboat Willie, animation has been a global phenomenon. Whether its Bugs Bunny or Tom and Jerry, or newcomers like Wallace & Gromit and Toy Story's Woody & Buzz, animation continues to create characters that are loved by children of all ages. For the first time, Jeremy Clarke brings together the innovators of animation from around the world--Japan's legendary Hayao Miyazaki, Czech surrealist Jan Svankmajer, American CGI wizard John Lassiter, and Britain's own maestro Nick Park--in one volume covering everything from the classic to the cutting edge.