Jonathan Lethem's 'Men and Cartoons' is an anthology that blurs the lines of reality and imagination. It contains eleven tales that oscillate between the mundane and the fantastic, featuring a multitude of memorable characters, from a drunken ex-military captain to an academic superhero, and even a suicidal sheep. These stories weave a tapestry of life's absurdities and poignant moments, exploring themes of identity, nostalgia, and the human condition. The collection showcases Lethem's remarkable narrative range, combining humor, social commentary, and genre-defying storytelling. This book includes 'The Shape We're In' and 'Interview with the Crab,' two stories exclusive to the Vintage edition.