Humans and animals are not as different as you think, even in smog filled cities and strange places of fantasy. The book Tales From The Inner City by Shaun Tan covers the stories of different animals and their relationship with humans in a creative way. There is a short story for each animal included in the book, accompanied by beautiful art displaying the mood of the story. Some stories are from the perspective of the animal, and some from the perspective of the human. Along the way you will read the enticing stories of bears with lawyers, fish that swim in the sky, and pigs that sink into the ground. The stories all come together to teach the reader that nature is valuable, and the bond between human and animal needs to be mended. It can also show that people must be kind to animals, and that kindness and joy are more important than money and power. I thoroughly enjoyed the stories, art, and messages, since they are interesting and inspirational. I felt myself excited each time I turned the page, wondering what will happen next. I would recommend it for anyone seventh grade and up. Readers who like animals, dystopian fiction, or stunning art would definitely love this book.

Review by Alison