A Mouse Divided Audiobook by Jeff Ryan

On a lazy Sunday morning, with the sun streaming through the blinds and a steaming cup of coffee in hand, I settled into my cozy reading nook to dive into “A Mouse Divided” by Jeff Ryan. The quiet hum of the neighborhood outside provided the perfect backdrop for this fascinating deep dive into the history of Mickey Mouse and the complex relationship between Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks. As someone who grew up enchanted by Disney’s magic, I was eager to uncover the lesser-known truths behind the iconic mouse.

From the very first chapter, Jeff Ryan’s meticulous research and engaging storytelling pulled me in. The audiobook, narrated by J.D. Jackson, felt like a conversation with a knowledgeable friend – someone who could make even the most intricate details of animation history feel accessible and exciting. Jackson’s voice carried just the right mix of warmth and authority, making it easy to get lost in the story.

What struck me most was how human this tale felt. Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks weren’t just legendary figures; they were two flawed, ambitious men whose friendship was both their greatest strength and their ultimate downfall. Ryan doesn’t shy away from showing their imperfections – Walt’s relentless drive for success often came at a cost, while Ub’s quiet genius was overshadowed by his inability to navigate the business side of creativity. Listening to their story felt like peeling back layers of a myth I thought I knew so well.

There were moments when I found myself rooting for both men, only to be frustrated by their choices moments later. The emotional rollercoaster of their partnership – filled with triumphs, betrayals, and missed opportunities – kept me hooked until the very end. By the time I finished listening, I had a newfound appreciation for both Walt Disney’s vision and Ub Iwerks’ underappreciated contributions.

This audiobook isn’t just for Disney fans or animation enthusiasts; it’s for anyone who loves stories about ambition, creativity, and the complexities of human relationships. It left me reflecting on how often we overlook the people behind our favorite cultural icons – and how much richer those icons become when we understand their origins.

—