If you think you know Tarzan stories—jungle fights, lost cities, Jane maybe getting kidnapped—this tenth book in the series will throw you for a loop. Edgar Rice Burroughs decides to swap the familiar for the fantastical in a big way.

The Story

Tarzan, wandering far from home, stumbles upon a hidden valley called Minuni. The catch? Its inhabitants, the Alali, are only about a foot tall. They live in massive, hive-like cities and are constantly at war with neighboring tribes. To them, Tarzan is a terrifying giant. After some initial clashes, Tarzan is captured by a scientist who has invented a shrinking ray (yes, really). Reduced to Alali size, Tarzan is forced to become a warrior in their endless, ant-like wars. The story follows his fight for survival and freedom in this miniature world, where he must use his wits and strength without the advantage of his normal size. It's a race to regain his stature and help his new tiny friends before their kingdom collapses.

Why You Should Read It

This isn't just a gimmick. Burroughs uses the wild setup to explore some cool ideas. What does strength mean when you're suddenly small? How does an outsider view a rigid, warlike society? Tarzan becomes the ultimate fish out of water. We see him struggle, adapt, and ultimately challenge the very foundations of Alali life. It's a fun mirror held up to our own world's obsession with war and social order. The action is inventive—imagine Tarzan battling with miniature spears and scaling furniture-sized obstacles. The pace never lets up, and Burroughs's imagination is in full, glorious swing.

Final Verdict

Perfect for fans of classic pulp who want something different from the usual formula. If you love old-school adventure but wish it sometimes took a left turn into science fiction, this is your book. It's also a great pick for anyone who enjoys stories about culture clash and seeing a familiar hero tested in utterly unfamiliar ways. Just buckle up for a weird, wonderful, and wildly entertaining ride.