Toxin City & Other Stories

What is a dream and why do we have them? Are they memories of a distant past or are they windows into unknown worlds? What mysteries can we solve by deciphering their symbols and metaphors? In Toxin City & Other Stories, Shayna Kay imagines places of wonder, unexpected journeys, and imagination—of mystical beasts and magical objects—where nature and morality battle for balance. Inspired by real dreams from the author, each story materializes hope, creativity, and understanding through the experiences of our most inner selves.

Experience a collection of thought-provoking stories and characters, each one imparting valuable lessons in life. Follow Tanda and Immy to a magical place where they reawaken childhood dreams in search of success. Faith and her cat Young revisit an enchanting land that reawakens lost passions. In the midst of stardom, Jane and Joel are spirited away to a bizarre world where they face the race of a lifetime. Ellie and her friend Rachel must flee from the comfort of their home only to get lost in time. A boy from the slums gains new perspectives by finding a friend to share his unique powers with. Warring nations employ mystical beasts to battle each other for a chance at love. Gidget and Finch escape their sheltered life in search of a greater truth. Aurum investigates a mansion driven by rumors of magic and murder in search of mystery. A family moves into a new home only to find that it's already been invaded by unknown horrors. Two childhood friends are saved from hoards of the dead by their grandfather's unique invention. Rickiss unveils the secrets of his experimental origins through dreams of the past. In Toxin City & Other Stories, Shayna Kay reveals that our dreams can impart wisdom to us in the most mysterious ways.

Shayna Kay was born and raised in San Diego, California. Growing up, she was fascinated by nature and fantasy. This led to an interest in history and culture developing her love for books. Inspired, Shayna put herself through college and earned a bachelor's degree with concentrations in creative writing and art history. Now, she strives to blend her passions to create unique worlds and characters. In Toxin City & Other Stories, Shayna Kay shares meaningful lessons and charming relationships that are woven from actual dreams and life events into mystical tales. Toxin City & Other Stories is Shayna Kay's first book.