In the June Alley Inn in the mouse city of Barkstone a group of mice compete to tell stories in the hope of being declared a winner and having their bar-tab cleared.

This framing device serves to allow Mouse Guard creator David Petersen to invite other creators to play in the Mouse Guard universe. This collection of 13 such tales is varied in art styles, story length, and approaches but all delight to some extent, and a handful are standouts.

You don’t have to be familiar with the characters or setting to enjoy these tales as they address universal subjects such as bravery, curiosity, hope, leadership, kindness, empathy, and ingenuity.

Another great addition to the Mouse Guard series. ( )