People of different ethnicities are definitely not of differing species. Biologically speaking, people are people.

I can't say I'm anything like a devoted animal rights activist, but I certainly oppose cruelty to animals.

I think a lot of things are at play when children enjoy a grisly old fairytale. I don't think many children take it literally, or rather it's quite clear to them that it's only a story, only make believe.

I'd hasten to say that the prejudice in Dust City isn't completely analogous to racism in the real world.

In Japan, it's strange to openly take credit for giving to charity or even to donate publicly.

I always hope that the artwork will complement and enrich a story.

If some readers take away the idea that animals deserve better treatment in general, then I certainly won't argue.