Manga Review: "WITCH OF THISTLE CASTLE Volume 1" is Magical Girl Magic

WITCH OF THISTLE CASTLE VOL. 1

TITAN COMICS/Titan Manga

MANGAKA: John Tarachine

TRANSLATION: Motoko Tamamuro and Jonathan Clements

LETTERS: Jessica Burton and Cale Ward

EDITOR: Phoebe Hedges

ISBN: 978-1787741416; paperback (October 31, 2023)

176pp, B&W, $12.99 U.S., $16.99 CAN, £9.99 UK

Azami no Shiro no Majo is a fantasy manga from writer-artist John Tarachine.  It began serialization in the Japanese magazine, Comic Tatan, in 2019.  Titan Manga is publishing an English-language edition of the manga under the title, Witch of Thistle Castle.

Witch of Thistle Castle, Vol. 1 (Chapters 1 to 5) opens in Edinburgh, Scotland.  Spirits and magic are everywhere in this city's streets – if only you dare to see it.  Marie Blackwood is the last in a long line of Witches of the Black Wood, and she is also known as “the Black Witch of Albion.”  However, Marie Blackwood lives a quiet life in Edinburgh – away from the scrutiny of the Church of London, which oversees magic.

Then, the Church thrusts 13-year-old Theo Edison into her hands for safekeeping.  Marie suddenly gains the responsibility not only of taking care of a teenager, but also of protecting the world, and Theo himself, from the amazing power that lives inside of him.  It is the power known as “the Blood of Righteous Anger.”  Is Theo Marie's apprentice or burden … or more?

THE LOWDOWN:  Beginning last month (October 2023), Titan Comics started providing me with print copies of their manga publications for review.  Witch of Thistle Castle 01 is the second.  The Witch of Thistle Castle manga is also the first title created by John Tarachine that I have read.

Witch of Thistle Castle Graphic Novel Volume 1 is intriguing simply because of the way that author John Tarachine presents magic.  In this world, magic works by negotiating with spirits that humans can't see, and even magic users need special means by which to see these spirits.  The narrative is at once playful, but there is always an air of menace about it.  Tarachine seems to use the sense of mystery and of the unknown as a lure to ensnare readers, which if fine by me.  Like me, I think readers will want to know more, much more about the world of this series.

Witch of Thistle Castle presents some of the most beautiful drawn manga art that I have seen in a while.  The figure drawing is a combination of sexy angles and playful elegance.  The detailed backgrounds are lavish and imaginative, and they serve to transport readers to this world with its unique and eccentric methods of magic and madness

My second experience with Titan Manga is also a win.  I hope to keep reading Witch of Thistle Castle.  I highly recommend this magical girl manga that is like no other.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of magical girl manga will want to try Titan Manga's Witch of Thistle Castle.

A

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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The text is copyright © 2023 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

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Manga Review: "ALPI: THE SOUL SENDER Volume 1" Makes a Strong Series Debut

ALPI – THE SOUL SENDER VOL. 1

TITAN COMICS/Titan Manga

MANGAKA: Rona

TRANSLATION: Motoko Tamamuro and Jonathan Clements

LETTERS: Jonathan Stevenson

EDITOR: Phoebe Hedges

COVER: Rona

ISBN: 978-1787741300; paperback (October 10, 2023)

176pp, B&W, $12.99 U.S., $16.99 CAN, £9.99 UK

Soukon no Shoujo to Sourei no Tabi is a manga from writer-artist Rona.  It was serialized by Japan's Web Comic Zenyon from 2018 to 2022.  Titan Manga is publishing an English-language edition of the manga under the title, Alpi – The Soul Sender.

Alpi – The Soul Sender, Vol. 1 (Chapters 1 to 5) is set on a magical version of Earth where divine spirits are the source of all life.  These spirits are the incarnation of the Sun God's blessed power, and they take the form of animals.  However, when a spirit's life ends, a terrible curse drives them to evil.

Enter the “Soul Senders.”  They perform a “valediction” that sends the malignant spirits to the afterlife.  Alpi is a Soul Sender, a very talented one despite her young age.  She travels the land with her familiar, an older man named Perenai.

THE LOWDOWN:  Beginning this month October 2023, Titan Comics started providing me with print copies of their manga publications for review.  Alpi – The Soul Sender 01 is the first.  Alpi – The Soul Sender manga is also the first title created by Rona that I have read.

Alpi – The Soul Sender Graphic Novel Volume 1 belongs to the “magical girl” manga genre.  Rona, the series creator, tells the stories of Alpi and her adventures in a episodic form.  In this first volume, the five chapters yield four episodes.  Rona deftly uses these early chapters to shape Alpi's character and personality and also to establish the bonds between Alpi and Perenai.

In true magical girl fashion, Alpi is likable and plucky, but her demeanor belies a subtle iron will and steady determination that makes us believe that she can overcome the serious obstacles before her.  When a spirit goes foul, it is a hot, dangerous mess.  Alpi is always up to the challenge, and I think that makes the readers want to put themselves in her place.

Rona's detailed graphical and drawing style serve the narrative well when it comes to depicting the rich and varied environments in which these episodes are set – from a lush lake town to town that is a series of iron works.  Motoko Tamamuro and Jonathan Clements' translation captures Alpi's winning personality and the seriousness of her mission and vocation; it's also an enjoyable read.

My first experience with Titan Manga is a win.  I hope to keep reading Alpi – The Soul Sender.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of magical girl manga will want to try Titan Manga's Alpi – The Soul Sender.

A

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

https://titan-comics.com/

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The text is copyright © 2023 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

PREVIEW of Page 127 (top) and Page 6 (bottom):

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Manga Review: Rumiko Takahashi's MAO: Volume 2

MAO, VOL. 2
VIZ MEDIA

MANGAKA: Rumiko Takahashi
TRANSLATION: Junko Goda
ENGLISH ADAPTATION: Shaenon Garrity
LETTERS: Susan Daigle-Leach
EDITOR: Annette Roman
ISBN: 978-1-9747-2058-3; paperback (November 2021); Rated “T+” for “Older Teen”
192pp, B&W, $9.99 U.S., $12.99 CAN, £7.99 UK

Mao is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Rumiko Takahashi.  It has been serialized in the Japanese manga magazine, Weekly Shōnen Sunday, since May 2019.  In September 2021, VIZ Media began publishing an English-language edition of Mao as a series of paperback graphic novels under its “Shonen Sunday” imprint.

Mao focuses on 15-year-old Nanoka Kiba.  Eight years ago, she was in a mysterious car accident in which she and her parents died, but Nanoka continues to live on.  One day, while visiting the shopping alley on Fifth Street, Nanoka inadvertently enters a portal that transports her back to Japan's Taisho era.  There, Nanoka meets a young-looking exorcist named Mao and his helper, Otoya, a shikigami that resembles a small boy.  As they try to discover what thread of fate connects them, they'll kick demon butt along the way.

As Mao, Vol. 2 (Chapters 1 to 10) opens, Nanoka, Mao, and Otoya investigate the strange cult of Priestess Shoko in hopes of bringing her to justice.  However, diabolical forces surround her, and they will kill anyone who stand in their way.  Meanwhile, Shoko reveals a shocking doomsday prophecy.  Later, Nanoka and her friend, the boy who wants to date her, Shiraha, do some historical research and discover a cataclysmic event that is yet to occur in Mao's timeline.

THE LOWDOWN:  The Mao manga is the latest multi-genre manga from Rumiko
Takahashi.  As usual, this title pairs a young female touched by the supernatural with a youngish male whose trade is in the supernatural.

Mao Graphic Novel Volume 2 finds Nanoka hopping back and forth between timelines.  She and Mao investigate all manner of demons.  Meanwhile, a historical disaster connects the two different worlds in which they live, but history may not be entirely correct about the details of event.  The Princess Shoko story arc reveals that while both their personalities and their methods sometimes clash, Nanoka and Mao are actually a rather nice match.

As she did in the first volume, Shaenon Garrity once again offers an English-language adaptation that is a delightful read, capturing the magic that infuses this volume and also the curious and inquisitive nature of Nanoka.  I couldn't stop reading Mao Vol. 1, and by the time I finished Vol. 2, I really wanted to read more.  I heartily recommend this series to any fans of supernatural fantasy comics and graphic novels even if they have never previously read Rumiko Takahashi.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Readers who love Rumiko Takahashi’s manga will want the Shonen Sunday title, Mao.

A

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


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Comics Review: KAIJU NO. 8 Volume 1

KAIJU NO. 8, VOL. 1
VIZ MEDIA

MANGAKA: Naoya Matsumoto
TRANSLATION: David Evelyn
LETTERS: Brandon Bovia
EDITOR: Karla Clark
ISBN: 978-1-9747-2598-4; paperback (December 2021); Rated “T” for “Teen”
212pp, B&W, $9.99 U.S., $12.99 CAN, £7.99 U.K.

Kaiju No. 8 is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Naoya Matsumoto.  It has been serialized for free on Shueisha's Shōnen Jump+ application and website since July 2020.  VIZ Media began publishing an English-language edition of the manga as series of paperback graphic novels under its “Shonen Jump” imprint in December 2021

Kaiju No. 8, Vol. 1 (Chapters 1 to 7) opens up in a world where Japan is plagued by the giant monsters known as “kaiju.”  Thirty-two-year-old Kafka Hibino is a kaiju corpse cleanup man.  Kafka works for Monster Sweeper, Inc., a professional kaiju cleaning company, but he wishes that he was a member of the Japanese Defense Force, which is tasked with neutralizing kaiju.

Kafka and childhood friend, Mina Ashiro, both wanted to be members of the Defense Force.  Mina is now captain of the JDF's “Third Division” and has neutralized hundreds of kaiju.  Kafka is training a new part time worker, 18-year-old Reno Ichikawa, who is determined to take the JDF's exam to join the force as a kaiju fighter.  That inspires Kafka to revive his dream to join Mina in the Defense Force, but there is one serious complication.  Kafka has recently made the Defense Force's neutralization list as the kaiju code named Kaiju No. 8!

THE LOWDOWN:  The Kaiju No. 8 manga made its North American debut this month (Dec. 2021).  With its striking cover art, the first volume may tempt fans of kaiju comics to try it.

Kaiju No. 8 Graphic Novel Volume 1 offers a familiar scenario.  A hero is forced into becoming the very kind of monster that he fights, or, in the case of Kafka Hibino, the very monsters which he cleans-up after.  Rather than treating his lead character as tragic, creator Naoya Matsumoto creates a comedy in which the hero makes the best of the situation.  That will probably lead to enough imaginative comic scenarios to keep Kaiju No. 8 running for several volumes, at least.

The translation by David Evelyn captures the moods, styles, and elements in which the manga plies its narrative trade.  Right now, the story focuses on the nastiness of Kafka's job, his growing friendship with Reno, the rigors of training, and how he faces becoming a kaiju.  So far, I like that Kafka is making the best of it.  Maybe, this manga will ultimately be about a hero who overcomes obstacles.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of kaiju manga will want to read the Shonen Jump title, Kaiju No. 8.

A

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


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Manga Review: BOYS RUN THE RIOT Volume 1

BOYS RUN THE RIOT, VOL. 1
KODANSHA COMICS

MANGAKA: Keito Gaku
TRANSLATION: Leo McDonagh
LETTERS: Ashley Caswell
EDITORS: Tiff Joshua and TJ Ferentini
COVER: Keito Gaku
ISBN: 978-1-64651-248-5; paperback (May 2021); Rated “OT 16+”
244pp, B&W, $12.99 U.S., $16.99 CAN

Boys Run the Riot is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Keito Gaku.  It began serialization in Kodansha's Weekly Young Magazine in January 2020, and then moved to Kodansha's “Comic Days” manga app in September 2020.  Kodansha Comics began publishing an English-language edition of the manga as a four-volume trade paperback original series in May 2021.  Each volume of Boys Run the Riot will also be available digitally upon release across all our participating digital vendors including Bookwalker, comiXology, Google Play, Kindle, Nook and izneo.

Boys Run The Riot, Vol. 1 (Chapters 1 to 7) introduces Ryo Watari, a second year high school student.  Ryo knows that he is transgender, but he does not have anyone in which to confide about the confusion he feels.  He can’t tell his best friend, Chika, who only sees Ryo as a girl who likes to dress as a boy.  He can't tell his mother, who is constantly asking Ryo why he “dresses like a boy.”  He certainly can’t tell Jin Sato, the new transfer student who looks like just another bully and a delinquent.

Ryo is into “street fashion,” and the only time he feels at ease is when he is wearing his favorite clothes.  It is then and only then that the world melts away, and Ryo can be his true self.  However, one day, while out shopping at a “pop-up” store, Ryo sees someone he didn’t expect, Jin.  The new student who looked so tough in class has the same taste in fashion as Ryo!  Ryo has someone with whom he can be open, but it is never that easy – especially when uniting with another outcast can make you even more of an outcast.

THE LOWDOWN:  Earlier this summer, I came upon either a review or an advertisement that alerted me to the existence of Boys Run the Riot.  I liked the title, and also, I have been curious about manga featuring transgender characters since I first read Shimura Takako's trans manga, Wandering Son Volume 1 (Fantagraphics Books), back in 2011.

Boys Run The Riot Volume 1 does an amazing thing.  From the moment I started reading, I only thought of Ryo as a boy.  Creator Keito Gaku only ever presents Ryo as a high school boy, and midway through the first chapter (entitled “Encounter”), Ryo declares to Jin, “I'm a guy on the inside!”  At that point, the narrative makes conveys the fact that Ryo is a guy through and through – at least to me.

I like Guka's art with its expressive faces and large, emotive eyes on the characters.  Ryo and Jin's street fashions fit them so naturally and with a sense of ease.  Guka's graphical storytelling feels at ease, but it is also capable of sudden changes and explosive displays of emotion.  Ryo and Jin's friendship is an evolving relationship, and there are plenty of bumps along the way, especially because Jin likes to tease and provoke.

Leo McDonagh's English-language translation perfectly fits the art and storytelling, while Ashley Caswell's lettering captures the many moods of the chapters contained in this first volume.  I thought that I would like Boys Run The Riot, and this first volume makes me want to read more.  The final chapter of Vol. 1 (Chapter 7: “Riot”) sets up some interesting things to come.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of transgender manga, of high school-set manga, and of comics about fashion will want Boys Run The Riot.

A

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


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Comics Review: FUTURE STATE: Gotham #1 Yells "AKIRA!"

FUTURE STATE: GOTHAM #1
DC COMICS – @DCComics

STORY: Joshua Williamson and Dennis Culver
ART: Giannis Milonogiannis
LETTERS: ALW's Troy Peteri
EDITOR: Ben Abernathy
COVER: Yasmine Putri
VARIANT COVER ARTIST: James Stokoe
32pp, B&W, $3.99 U.S. (July 2021)

Rating: Age 13+

Batman created by Bob Kane and Bill Finger

“Hunt the Batman” Part One: “Batman's Land”

Future State: Gotham is a new black and white comic book series written by Joshua Williamson and Dennis Culver and drawn by Giannis Milonogiannis.  The series springs out of the “Future State” miniseries, Future State: Dark Detective, and focuses on Red Hood/Jason Todd as he wages a war against the “Bat-family.”  Letter Troy Peteri completes the creative team.

Future State: Gotham #1 (Batman's Land) opens with the Red Hood battling “Mecha-Scarface” and Arnold Wesker.  Although he is victorious, Jason Todd has earned the ire of the “Peacekeepers.”  Then, disaster strikes Gotham City, and all evidence points towards “the Next Batman.”  Now, Todd must choose justice over his “Bat-family,” when he is recruited by The Magistrate, which wants the Next Batman dead or alive (more the former than the latter).  Peacekeeper Red is born!

But the Magistrate is corrupt.  So what is Jason Todd up to in this forbidding world of tomorrow?

THE LOWDOWN:  “Hunt the Batman,” the debut story arc of Future State: Gotham, will run six issues.  Series writers Joshua Williamson and Dennis Culver offer a story that is explosive and has attractive and engaging characters.  They also put Jason Todd/Red Hood in a precarious position filled with uncertainty that will make for high-wire tension and nail-biting drama.

Series artist Giannis Milonogiannis renders Future State Gotham #1 in stark black and white tones.  This art evokes a gritty, noir aesthetic that recalls both the 1982 film, Blade Runner, and Katsuhiro Otomo's classic manga, Akira (serialized in Japan's Weekly Young Magazine, 1982-90).  In fact, it is not a coincidence and is fitting that this first issue reprints the Batman short story, "The Third Mask," that Otomo wrote and drew for the first Batman: Black and White (1996) miniseries.  I think that DC Comics and the creators want us to know that they are producing a comic book that exemplifies what is true to the spirit of Akira, if not being an heir to that manga.

Troy Peteri's dynamic lettering for Future State: Gotham #1 is pitch perfect for this series.  His fonts ride Milonogiannis' manga-like action lines as if they were riding lightning.  Yes, dear readers, I am strongly recommending Future State: Gotham #1.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Jason Todd and Red Hood will want to read Future State: Gotham.

A

Future State: Gotham #1 includes the following extras:

• a Batman pinup drawn by the late French artist, Moebius
• A series design sketch by Giannis Milonogiannis
• A story from Batman: Black and White #4 (September 1996), “The Third Mask” written and drawn by Katsuhiro Otomo; translated by Jo Duffy; lettered by Bill Oakley
• A “DC Nation” “Spotlight On” Wonder Girl #1 interview with writer artist Joelle Jones

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


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The text is copyright © 2021 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

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Comics Review: GREY: CHAPTER 5

GREY. CHAPTER 5
THE GREY ROOM

STORY: Kris Hornett
ART: Ardee Arollado
SPECIAL PROJECTS ART: Kenet Guevarra
EDITOR: Lisa Taylor
COVER: Nicholas Sen
36pp, B&W, $10.00 U.S. (print), $5.99 U.S. (March 2021)

Age Rating: 15+ Only

Chapter 5: Living Portraits

Grey is an independent comic book series from writer Kris Hornett and artist Ardee Arollado.  Published by The Grey Room, Grey is a hybrid, a combination of an American comic book format and Japanese manga.  Grey is similar to what was once called “OEL manga” or “original English language” manga.  These were American graphic novels in which the storytelling borrowed or mimicked the aesthetics and sensibilities of Japanese manga (comics).

Grey is set in the realm of Ketiyama (apparently an archipelago) and takes place some time after an event known as “the Sonoma Incident.”  This outbreak of the lethal “Moon Virus” on Nacirema, one of Ketiyama's islands, led to chaos, destruction, and division.  As a sign of good faith and as a last attempt to restore order, the ruling Board of Officials allowed the people to elect a team of highly trained tactical agents, known as “the Bureau,” to serve and protect them.  Within the Bureau is an elite unit known as “Nimbus.”  The members of this team of five agents are sworn to maintain moral balance and to enforce the law.  These agents are also able to manipulate their “prana” (“life energy”).

The agents of Nimbus are Samara Asuhara, Kouken Masimuto, Shuyin Hagamuri, Manu Yagyu, and Kale Schaefer.  Belisia Asuhara, Samara's sister, is their handler and the creator of Nimbus.

Grey Chapter 5 opens in the home of Asuna and Yuta Yagyu – recently murdered.  It is, however, an unusual death, as they have been posed in a process involving prana.  Now, they are “living portraits,” and it is up to Saya Yagyu – the Shriker of Malta – to discover who killed members of her family.  Meanwhile, the killer has absconded with her niece, Asuka, Asuna and Yuta's daughter.

The agents of Nimbus have joined her in the investigation, and Samara has seen “living portraits” in her past.  In fact, Samara knows who the killer is, and she and Shuyin prepare to lead the mission to bring in the killer.  Not everyone is happy with that plan, though.

THE LOWDOWN:  The Grey Room is about to release the first trade paperback collection of Grey, entitled Grey: Volume 1.  This TPB will reprint Grey Chapters 1 to 5, as well as, Chapter 3.5: Astrid and Chapter 4.5: The Right Thing, both “special release chapters.”  I think this collection will be the best way to read the series, as it will reinforce to readers how conceptually well-developed Grey is.

As I have previously written, when readers start from the beginning, they discover that the world in which Grey is set has a complex history.  Readers get to watch the authors build a world in front of them and also to experience some other elements of the series, such as its engaging mysteries and sense of discovery.

The one thing I do want to emphasize, which Grey Chapter 5 also emphasizes, is the strength of the characters in this series.  First, each character is independent in the sense that he or she has his or her own motivations, desires, and goals.  Hornett presents characters that are not beholding to other characters for their worth.  Certainly, one character can affect another via the action, but it is good that supporting characters and cameo players don't feel like mere window dressing in the dramas of Grey's most important characters.

The best example of that takes place in the second half of Chapter 5, which I want to be careful not to spoil.  Hornett has the Nimbus characters and investigators confront one another about various issues regarding the murder investigations.  Hornett does not depict any characters as “backing down,” which makes them all appear important.  Readers are welcomed to pick a favorite character or even assume a character is the lead, but like Japanese manga, this American manga respects the idea of an ensemble cast with many quality characters.

Ardee Arollado's art, which gets more powerful with each chapter, conveys this in the way he composes the characters.  Sometimes, his art and storytelling seem like impartial observers, presenting the drama in large-size panels, capturing a stage in which each character has the power to affect the drama.

So after praising the characters, I have to heartily recommend Grey to you, dear readers.  And with this new trade paperback, you can still get in on Grey's intriguing ground floor.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of manga-inspired comic books and of good science fiction comic books will want to read Grey.

[This comic book includes three pages of additional informative text pieces.]

A

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


Grey #5 and all issues of the series can be read at comiXology.  Readers can also purchase all issues of the series and the new first trade collection, Grey: Volume 1 here or at https://thegreyroom.org/.

https://thegreyroom.org/
https://www.instagram.com/thegreyroom_/
Kris Hornett: https://twitter.com/Hornett_
Lisa Taylor: https://twitter.com/Persuasion513
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"Getter Robot Arc" Anime is Due Summer 2021

“Getter Robot Arc" Finally Becomes an Anime!

The last "Getter Robot" by Ken Ishikawa is going through an era of stagnation and chaos!

TOKYO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The hit manga series "Getter Robot" by Go Nagai and Ken Ishikawa, which has been running since 1974, is now in its 46th year. The final chapter of the series, "Getter Robot Arc", has finally been made into an anime! A teaser visual and the first PV have been released.
“Getter Robot Arc” is the final installment in the "Getter Robot Saga" manga series by Go Nagai and Ken Ishikawa, which began in 1974.

What is "Getter Robot Saga"?

“Getter Robot Saga” is the generic term for the Getter Robot series, which began with “Getter Robot”.  The original “Getter Robot” was a milestone in the history of coalescing robots. After that, the spirit of "transformation" was inherited in many other work.  “Getter Robot” was followed by "Getter Robot G" (1975~), "Getter Robot Go" (1991~), "Shin Getter Robot" (1997~), and "Getter Robot Arc" started to be serialized in Futabasha's “Super Robot Magazine”, an extra issue of Action Pizzazz, in 2001.  After that, Ken Ishikawa passed away suddenly. Both "Getter Robot Arc" and "Getter Robot Saga" became unfinished masterpieces.

Finally, "Getter Robot Arc" is coming to life!

The anime to be produced this time is a work that reflects the characteristics of the original work more strongly.  The teaser visual depicts the story's main character, Takuma Nagare, the main Robot, Getter Arc, and Hayato Jin, the first pilot of Getter Robot, who is also deeply involved in the series.  In the first PV, the song 'HEATS' by Hironobu Kageyama, that is very popular in the OVA "Getter Robot - The Last Day", is newly recorded in the new version 'HEATS 2021', and you can see the Getter Arc in action.

The animation will be produced by Bee∙Media, the creator of the OVA "Getter Robot Series", and will be directed by Jun Kawagoe, who has worked on "Getter Robot - The Last Day", "Shin Getter Robo vs Neo Getter Robo", and “New Getter Robo”.  It has been 46 years since the series was born. The Getter Robot's exuberant "hot spirit" will break through the current stagnation and chaos.  Don't miss it!

Animation ”Getter Robot Arc”
Animated in summer, 2021

Staff:
Original work: Go Nagai and Ken Ishikawa
Director: Jun Kawagoe
Animation Production: Bee∙Media

Official Website:
“Getter Robot Arc” Official Website: getterrobot-arc.com

“Getter Robot Arc” ©Go Nagai-Ken Ishikawa/DynamicPlanning-Shin Saotome Labo

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Yen Press Announces 11 New Titles at NYCC Metaverse 2020

NYCC Metaverse 2020 Announcements — Yen Press Announces Eleven New Titles for Future Publication

NEW YORK, NY – Yen Press, LLC announced a slate of upcoming titles during a virtual panel titled The Yen Press Manga and Light Novel Party that was a part of New York Comic Con Metaverse. Acquisitions included manga (Hana-chan and the Shape of the World, Please Put Them On, Takamine-san!!, In Another World With My Smartphone, Can’t Stop Cursing You, Sex Education 120% and Love of Kill), light novels (Durarara!! SH, Yokohama Station SF and Hazure Skill: The Guild Member with a Worthless Skill Is Actually a Legendary Assassin) and both the light novel and manga adaptation of Bofuri: I Don’t Want to Get Hurt, So I’ll Max Out My Defense.

All announced titles are scheduled for March and April 2021 release.

Durarara!! SH
Story by Ryohgo Narita
Illustrations by Suzuhito Yasuda

In the sequel series to the urban fantasy Durarara!!, Yahiro Mizuchi has come to Tokyo in the hopes of starting a new life (and maybe seeing the Headless Rider), but the famous Dullahan hasn’t been seen in half a year—and neither has anyone who’s gone to find her!

Durarara!! SH is a sequel series of the legendary Durarara!!, the most well known work by Ryohgo Narita, the creator of Baccano! and Dead Mount Death Play. With Durarara!! standing out as one of the most beloved franchises of the past decade, one that helped launch light novels in the West, Durarara!! SH is a highly anticipated release by the most passionate of light novel readers.

Hana-chan and the Shape of the World
Story and Art by Ryotaro Ueda

It’s the story of a girl. A girl who lives in the country. A girl encountering fragments, both bitter and sweet, of the world around her. It’s the story of the shape of her world.

Hana-chan and the Shape of the World is a unique addition to the growing category of slice-of-life manga, one that features a loveable female protagonist, a stylized art style and a story reminisicent of Yotsuba&!. Hana-chan and the Shape of the World is complete in one volume.

Please Put Them On, Takamine-san!
Story and Art by Yuichi Hiiragi

The student council president, Takane Takamine, is a beauty beyond compare, and she would normally never associate with a friendless nobody like Koushi Shirota. After seeing her undressed, however, he’s forced to become her walking “closet” as she changes underwear throughout the day. But Takamine’s stripping isn’t merely to tease—it’s the key to unleashing her time-bending powers!

Please Put Them On, Takamine-san! is a spicy romantic comedy manga that puts a sexy spin on popular science fiction tropes, one that appeals greatly to fans of the best-selling Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai looking for more of an edge.

In Another World With My Smartphone
Story by Patora Fuyuhara
Art by Soto and Eiji Usatsuka

Due to God having a bit of a clumsy accident, Touya Mochizuki is killed and reincarnated in a medieval fantasy world, along with his smartphone…? His easygoing, wondrous journey through another world starts here!

In Another World With My Smartphone is a manga adaptation of the light novel series that inspired the hit anime. The ongoing series puts a fun twist on the ever popular isekai genre.   

Yokohama Station SF
Story by Tatsuyuki Tanaka
Illustrations by Yuba Isukari

In a future where Yokohama Station covers most of the island of Honshu, there are two ways of life-inside the station and outside. Life within the station is strictly controlled, and those who fail to follow the rules are expelled to the harsher world outside. When one of these exiles receives a temporary ticket to go into the station, he’s also given a mission to find the leader of a group determined to free humanity.

Yokohama Station SF is a dystopian science fiction novel that has enjoyed best-seller status in Japan. An epic tale that is complete in one volume, Yokohama Station SF is a must-read for fans of Japanese science fiction novels.

Can’t Stop Cursing You
Story by Kensuke Koba
Art by Natsuko Uruma

Those who make contracts with devils gain the power to curse others to death. Their mortal enemy: the Curse Detective Kiyoharu Saeyama, who uses traces of the curses left on their victims to uncover the identities of these sick killers. Let this deadly, paranormal game of psychological warfare begin!

Can’t Stop Cursing You is an edgy and suspenseful manga series that features a stylish and often gruesome art style. A relatively new series that is quickly gaining traction in Japan, Can’t Stop Cursing You is a welcome addition to the ever popular category of psychological thriller manga.

Sex Education 120%
Story by Kikiki Tataki
Art by Hotomura

Gym teacher Tsuji-sensei has one mission: help with Japan’s terrible modern sex education standards. The problem is, her students barely know their birds from their bees! Between a girl who already has a girlfriend, a hard-core BL lover, and a girl who only cares about cats, Tsuji-sensei has her work cut out for her.

Sex Education 120% is a school life manga that takes a comedic and sexy approach to discuss the topic of sex education. Led by an eccentric cast of characters all with their own lovable quirks, Sex Education 120% answers all the questions one would ask (and might not know to ask!) on a very important subject.

Hazure Skill: The Guild Member with a Worthless Skill Is
Actually a Legendary Assassin
Story by Kennoji
Illustration by KWKM

Roland is the world’s greatest assassin, he’s a man who’s taken a worthless skill and made it so powerful that he managed to kill the greatest demon lord that’s ever lived. He could live out the rest of his days as a wealthy and famous man, but instead chooses...an exceedingly normal life working at an adventurer’s guild?! For someone as exceptional as Roland, aiming for a normal life won’t come easy, however...

Hazure Skill: The Guild Member with a Worthless Skill is Actually a Legendary Assassin is an adventurous fantasy light novel series that is growing in popularity. The light novel series features popular RPG elements and a protagonist who shows himself to be a reluctant hero, an increasingly popular element seen in some of today’s hottest light novel series.

Love of Kill
Story and Art by Fe

She’s a professional hitman. And he…is also a professional hitman. And she’s his target. Caught in a deadly game of cat-and-mouse, will she fall first…or will he?

Love of Kill is a thrilling manga series filled with intriguing action and romance. Originally a webcomic that has enjoyed success for years, Love of Kill is a dramatic and compelling romance story unlike any manga seen in the West.

Bofuri: I Don’t Want to Get Hurt, So I’ll Max Out My Defense (light novel)
Story by Yuumikan
Illustrations by Koin

When it comes to the VRMMO NewWorld Online, Kaede Honjou isn’t your run-of-the-mill greenhorn gamer. Forgoing a typical stat allocation for her Great Shielder, Maple, she pumps all her points into defense from the get-go! Her reasoning? “I don’t want to get hurt.” With no magic, agility, or strength to speak of, this walking fortress will have to get creative to beat the baddies early on. But little does she know that her pure-stat build will propel her to chaotic new heights that even the game admins couldn’t account for!

Bofuri: I Don’t Want to Get Hurt, So I’ll Max Out My Defense is the light novel series that inspired the hit anime that stands out as one of the most popular of 2020. Led by an adorable and endearing protagonist, this series excellently combines action, comedy and ever popular RPG elements to tell a story that appeals to a wide audience.

Bofuri: I Don’t Want to Get Hurt, So I’ll Max Out My Defense (manga)
Story by Yuumikan
Art by Oimoto
Original Illustrations by Koin

When Kaede Honjou agrees to try out VRMMO gaming with her best friend from high school, her inexperience and “I don’t want to get hurt” outlook cause her to max out her defense points—leaving her with no attack points to speak of! Luckily for her, the game’s mod system is diverse enough that a little creativity boosts her special abilities to heights beyond the game admins’ wildest imaginations…Will this noob become a new star in NewWorld Online?!

The Bofuri: I Don’t Want to Get Hurt, So I’ll Max Out My Defense manga does an amazing job portraying the events of the highly-anticipated light novel series in an art style that is just as adorable as its protagonist. This manga adaptation appeals greatly to fans of the upcoming light novel series as well as the hit anime.


About Yen Press, LLC:
Yen Press, LLC is a joint venture between Kadokawa Corporation and Hachette Book Group. Founded in 2006, Yen Press has quickly risen to become one of the largest and most prolific publishers of manga and original graphic novels in the North American marketplace and a driving force in the introduction of light novels and Japanese literature to new readers through its Yen On imprint. For more information, visit www.yenpress.com.   

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Yen Press Announces "When a Magician's Pupil Smiles" and More Titles

Acquisition Announcement — Yen Press Announces Four New Titles for Future Publication

NEW YORK, NY – Yen Press, LLC announced a slate of upcoming titles that include the manga series When a Magician’s Pupil Smiles and Goblin Slayer Side Story II: Dai Katana and the light novel series and manga adaptation of I Was a Bottom-Tier Bureaucrat for 1,500 Years, and the Demon King Made Me a Minister.

When a Magician's Pupil Smiles
Story and Art by Chisaki Kanai

Ouka Namae, a magician's pupil, is incapable of feeling emotion. That is...he's almost incapable. There is one particular circumstance when his feelings rise to the surface, but the scenario that unleashes them is too dark to even contemplate...

When a Magician’s Pupil Smiles is a dark supernatural manga that was originally published as a digital exclusive by Yen Press. This upcoming print edition collects the entire series in a single omnibus edition.

Goblin Slayer Side Story II: Dai Katana, Vol. 1 (manga)
Story by Kumo Kagyu
Art by Aoki Shogo
Original Illustrations by lack

Not a soul knows how the death and destruction started. Only one thing is certain-it came from the north. Deep within the Dungeon of the Dead is where the the Demon King resides and the only hope humanity has of defeating this great evil rests on the shoulders of a handful of adventurers. This tale of Sword Maiden's past smells of ash and sounds like the ringing of bare steel.

Goblin Slayer Side Story II: Dai Katana is a manga adaptation of the upcoming light novel release. A spin-off of the ever popular Goblin Slayer that delves into the past of the legendary Sword Maiden, this manga appeals greatly to fans of the series.

I Was a Bottom-Tier Bureaucrat for 1,500 Years, and the Demon King Made Me a Minister (light novel)
Story by Kisetsu Morita
Illustrations by Benio

In this spinoff story of I’ve Been Killing Slimes for 300 Years and Maxed Out My Level, enjoy Beelzebub’s misadventures in her early days as the demon Minister of Agriculture, after she was promoted from entry-level office worker right to the top!

I Was a Bottom-Tier Bureaucrat for 1,500 Years, and the Demon King Made Me a Minister is a spin-off of I’ve Been Killing Slimes for 300 Years and Maxed Out My Level, a slice-of-life fantasy that has been rapidly growing in popularity with an anime adaptation on the horizon. As a spin-off that focuses on the past hijinks of fan-favorite character Beelzebub, this series further builds upon the fun and fantastical world that many have grown to love.

I Was a Bottom-Tier Bureaucrat for 1,500 Years, and the Demon King Made Me a Minister (manga)
Story by Kisetsu Morita
Art by Meishi Murakami
Original Illustrations by Benio

In this spinoff story of I’ve Been Killing Slimes for 300 Years and Maxed Out My Level, enjoy demon Minister of Agriculture Beelzebub’s adventures in the days before she met Azusa. After refusing promotions for 1500 years, how did she make it from entry-level office worker right to the top?

Like the manga adaptation of I’ve Been Killing Slimes for 300 Years and Maxed Out My Level, the manga adaptation of I Was a Bottom-Tier Bureaucrat for 1,500 Years, and the Demon King Made Me a Minister does an amazing job portraying the hilarious events and characters from the pages of the light novel series, all in a cute art style that fans are sure to love.


About Yen Press, LLC:
Yen Press, LLC is a joint venture between Kadokawa Corporation and Hachette Book Group. Founded in 2006, Yen Press has quickly risen to become one of the largest and most prolific publishers of manga and original graphic novels in the North American marketplace and a driving force in the introduction of light novels and Japanese literature to new readers through its Yen On imprint. For more information, visit www.yenpress.com

Yen Press Releases "King of Eden" Manga

Yen Press amps up the horror with the release of the new manga, King of Eden.  The visceral new work is written by Takashi Nagasaki is the acclaimed co-author (along with famed creator Naoki Urasawa) of Monster, 20th Century Boys, Master Keaton, Billy Bat, and Pluto.  With stunning artwork by SangCheol Lee, King of Eden demonstrates a rare and flawlessly executed collaboration between Korean and Japanese creative forces.

King of Eden is available now in print and digitally.

King of Eden Summary:
Entire villages are going up in flames across the globe, with the same man left standing at the scene every time. Meanwhile, rumors abound of a highly contagious virus where those infected fly into a blind rage, killing anything and everything that crosses their path. As the death toll rises, agencies from nations around the world get together, looking for answers-How are these incidents connected? Who is that man? And most importantly...can the massacres be stopped before humanity is doomed? King of Eden would make for a fitting story ahead of any Halloween-related coverage.

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Yen Press Announces "My Broken Mariko" for October 20th

Yen Press Debuts the Poignant Josei Manga "My Broken Mariko"

NEW YORK, NY – Yen Press, LLC announces an emotional new manga release about a close friendship between two young women and the devastating impact of suicide as one of them struggles to understand the sudden loss of her best friend.

My Broken Mariko will debut digitally and also in print as a deluxe, hardcover edition on October 20th.

The title exemplifies josei manga, which is characterized by mature storytelling, unique artwork and its appeal to older female readers.

My Broken Mariko
Story & Art by Waka Hirako

Tomoyo Shiino has stood by her friend Mariko through years of abuse, abandonment, and depression. However horrific her circumstances, their friendship has been the one reassuring constant in Mariko’s life—and Tomoyo’s too. That is, until Tomoyo is utterly blindsided by news of Mariko’s death. In life, Tomoyo felt powerless to help her best friend out of the darkness that ultimately drove her over the edge. Now, Tomoyo is determined to liberate Mariko’s ashes for one final journey together…to set free her dear, broken Mariko.

About Yen Press, LLC:
Yen Press, LLC is a joint venture between Kadokawa Corporation and Hachette Book Group. Founded in 2006, Yen Press has quickly risen to become one of the largest and most prolific publishers of manga and original graphic novels in the North American marketplace and a driving force in the introduction of light novels and Japanese literature to new readers through its Yen On imprint. For more information, visit www.yenpress.com.   

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Yen Press Announces New Manga for February 2021

Yen Press Announces Nine New Titles for Future Publication During Virtual Crunchyroll Expo 2020

NEW YORK, NY – Yen Press, LLC just announced a slate of upcoming titles during the Yen Press Industry Panel that was a part of the Virtual Crunchyroll Expo. Acquisitions include the manga, Do You Like the Nerdy Nurse?, Love and Heart, Days on Fes, The Girl Without a Face, I Can’t Reach You, Play it Cool, Guys and Penguin Gentlemen and the light novels, Virgin Road and Date A Live.

All announced titles are scheduled for a February 2021 print and digital release.

Do You Like the Nerdy Nurse?
Story and Art by Arata Kawabata

The beauty in the nurse’s office is a secret nerd (who doesn’t hide it very well). Nijiko Momoyama is the the newly appointed school nurse. But beneath her gorgeous façade lies an unmistakable love for all things geeky…!

Do You Like the Nerdy Nurse? is a romantic comedy manga that includes many fun otaku references in addition to a very pretty nurse. The Yen Press edition of Do You Like the Nerdy Nurse? completes the entire series in one standalone volume.

Love and Heart
Story and Art by Chitose Kaido

Sure, university freshman Yagisawa has a lot on her plate, but the last thing she expected to add was a surprise male roommate! Handsome Haruma claims to be a childhood friend, but for some reason, Yagisawa doesn’t remember him at all, and his history isn’t the only oddity—disturbing things begin to happen and Yagisawa may really be in over her head!

Love and Heart is a manga series that falls under the category of shojo horror, a subgenre that has rarely made its way to English. With horror manga enjoying immense popularity in today’s market, Love and Heart is sure to appeal to fans looking for a unique new release.

Days on Fes
Story and Art by Kanato Oka

When high schooler Kanade Sora takes her classmate Otoha Yamana to their first rock festival, the experience is greater than they can even imagine. It’s a new life of rocking out!

Already part of the niche genre of music manga, Days on Fes stands out even more by being one of the only manga series released in English that pertains to the music festival experience. With fun characters and beautiful imagery that accurately captures the feeling of attending a music festival, this manga is a welcome addition to fans of slice-of-life manga as well as passionate fans of live music.

The Girl Without a Face
Story and Art by Tearontaron

Her boyfriend thinks she’s the cutest girl around, but her expressions can be a bit hard to read…

The Girl Without a Face is a cute yet eccentric manga about a boy and his faceless girlfriend. With horror elements, such as the presence of yokai, and a slice-of-life storyline, The Girl Without a Face appeals to fans of both categories of manga.

I Can’t Reach You
Story and Art by Mika

The differences between Yamato and Kakeru couldn’t be more obvious. Yamato gets good grades, while Kakeru’s are less than average. And while Yamato is very attractive, Kakeru’s looks are perfectly average. Not a problem—unless you’re in love with your childhood best friend…How in the world can Kakeru make Yamato look at him when Yamato is completely out of his league?!

I Can’t Reach You is a sweet boys’ love series, one that tells the tale of a budding romance between two friends with a well paced slice-of-life story. This manga is a welcome release to fans of boys’ love stories that focus on friendship and emotion.

Play it Cool, Guys
Story and Art by Kokone Nata

Enter: a bunch of cool guys who look like they got that unapproachable swag. But let’s be real—that’s not the true them. They’re just a bunch of dorks who’ve got the act down pat. So sit back, grab some popcorn and enjoy watching a bunch of goofy guys try to look cool all day every day.

Play it Cool, Guys is a fun collection of stories featuring guys that are equal parts cool and equal parts adorably awkward. This manga featuring hilarious and relatable stories is not only beautifully illustrated—it is fully colored!

Penguin Gentlemen
Story and Art by Kishi Ueno

In a certain secret bar, the “Penguin Gentlemen” work, wearing their long tailed tuxedos. “You say it’s cute how penguins waddle around? Hmph. We’re not just cute! We’re dandy, sexy, and marvelous!”

Penguin Gentlemen is a manga that is sometimes pretty, sometimes cute but always hilarious. A standalone volume that tells the tales of a bar run by penguins (often portrayed as strong and beautiful men), Penguin Gentlemen is a treat for those looking forward to an adorable and quirky manga unlike any other.

Virgin Road
Story by Mato Sato
Art by Nilitsu

The Lost Ones are wanderers who come here from a distant world known as "Japan." No one knows how or why they leave their homes. The only thing that is certain is that they bring disaster and calamity. The duty of exterminating them without remorse falls to Menou, a young Executioner. When she meets Akari, it seems like just another job...until she discovers it's impossible to kill this girl! And when Menou begins to search for a way to defeat this immortality, Akari is more than happy to tag along! So begins a journey that will change Menou forever...

In addition to being an intriguing addition to the ever popular isekai genre of light novels, Virgin Road is an intriguing release due to the fact that it includes elements not commonly seen in light novels released in English—a female protagonist and a yuri storyline. With both light novels and yuri rapidly growing in popularity, Virgin Road is sure to be a popular release for both sets of fans.

Date A Live
Story by Koushi Tachibana
Illustrations by Tsunako

Shidou Itsuka has a problem. The world has been racked by massive quakes of an unknown source for years now, though life goes on. Then one day, Shidou's calm life ends forever when in the middle of a quake in his city, he meets a girl  who's apparently a spirit-and the cause of all the destruction! When a team arrives to eliminate the threat, Shidou becomes embroiled in a war to protect these spirits-by making them fall in love with him?!

Date A Live is the highly-anticipated light novel series that inspired the popular anime adaptation—one that has had three successful seasons since 2013. As one of the most fan-requested light novel series, Date A Live is sure to become a best-seller upon release, especially due to the excitement from the recently announced Season 4 of the anime.


About Yen Press, LLC:
Yen Press, LLC is a joint venture between Kadokawa Corporation and Hachette Book Group. Founded in 2006, Yen Press has quickly risen to become one of the largest and most prolific publishers of manga and original graphic novels in the North American marketplace and a driving force in the introduction of light novels and Japanese literature to new readers through its Yen On imprint. For more information, visit www.yenpress.com. 

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Yen Press Announces "ID:Invaded #Brake-Broken"

Manga Acquisition Announcement—Yen Press Acquires the Manga ID:Invaded #Brake-Broken

NEW YORK, NY (9/2/20) – Yen Press, LLC has announced the acquisition of the manga series ID:Invaded #Brake-Broken, with story by Otaro Maijo and art by Yuuki Kodama, the creator of Blood Lad.

When Sakaido wakes up in a strange room next to a dead girl, there are only two things he knows for sure—1) he’s a brilliant detective, and 2) he has to solve the mystery of Kaeru’s death. What surprises await the brilliant detective in this strange, new world?

ID:Invaded #Brake-Broken ties into the anime series that debuted in January 2020, one of the most popular of the Winter 2020 season. The highly-anticipated manga series appeals to both fans of the anime adaptation as well as longtime fans of Blood Lad.

Additional announcements will be made at the Yen Press Industry Panel at the Virtual Crunchyroll Expo on Saturday, September 5 at 11:00 am PT.

ID:Invaded #Brake-Broken, Vol. 1 is scheduled for a February 2021 release in print and digital.


About Yen Press, LLC:
Yen Press, LLC is a joint venture between Kadokawa Corporation and Hachette Book Group. Founded in 2006, Yen Press has quickly risen to become one of the largest and most prolific publishers of manga and original graphic novels in the North American marketplace and a driving force in the introduction of light novels and Japanese literature to new readers through its Yen On imprint. For more information, visit www.yenpress.com.

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Yen Press Announces New Manga and Book Titles for August 2020

Yen Press Details New Manga & Light Novel Releases For August

News from Yen Press on a wide array of new manga and light novel releases set for release in August.

New manga series launches include: Fiancé of the Wizard, I Don't Know How to Give Birth!, I Love You So Much, I Hate You, the Puella Magi Madoka Magica: The Complete Omnibus Edition, and the manga version of Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai.

New light novels set to debut include: Final Fantasy I * II * III: Memory of Heroes, Interspecies Reviewers, Vol. 1: Ecstasy Days, Rascal Does Not Dream of Petite Devil Kohai, The Demon Sword Master of Excalibur Academy, and the novel, The Garden of Words, by the famed anime director Makoto Shinkai.

Summaries for each release follow below.

Fiancé of the Wizard, Vol. 1
By Syuri Nakamura, Artwork by Masaki Kazuka · Available August 25, 2020

Went looking for magic but found love instead...

Filimena via Adina, daughter of nobility, awakens one day with the realization that she had been reborn into a world of sorcery and given a second chance at life. In her new country full of heroes, she expects this means she's a chosen one, yet her lot is not as she dreamed-instead, her path crosses with the improbably powerful stepson of a wizard, and as a young noble lady, her place is at his side...as his fiancée! But perhaps a quest for love is exactly the adventure she was looking for...

Final Fantasy I * II * III: Memory of Heroes (Light Novel)
By Takashi Umemura · Available August 18, 2020

When darkness veils the world...

Light and darkness hold the world in balance-and should that equilibrium ever break, only the four warriors chosen by the Crystals can prevent inevitable ruin. This is the story of three times the balance shifted-and the three bands of friends who came together to save the world.

See where it all began with the novel adaptation of the first three stories from the classic FINAL FANTASY series, penned in celebration of its 25th anniversary!

I Don't Know How to Give Birth!
Story & Artwork by Ayami Kazama · Available August 18, 2020

A humorous and heartfelt autobiographical comic essay of a manga artist new to the challenges of motherhood! Follow her journey as she learns the ins and outs of pregnancy and childbirth-and the impossibility of finding comfy maternity underwear!

I Love You So Much, I Hate You
Story & Artwork by Yuni · Available August 18, 2020

What do work and love have in common? They can both take over your life...

Saori Fujimura and her boss, Ayako Asano, are an unbeatable duo at work, but after hours their relationship is more than just professional. As tensions mount between Ayako and her husband and Saori's feelings grow stronger, they'll have to decide-is it love they seek, or merely pleasure?

Interspecies Reviewers, Vol. 1: Ecstasy Days (Light Novel)
By Tetsu Habara, Artwork by Amahara, W18 and Masha · Available August 18, 2020

An all-out fantasy extravaganza!

In a world where an endless variety of humanoid species coexist, there's an equally endless variety of sexy shops sure to satisfy your every carnal desire! But say you're spoiled for choice or you have a place in mind but you're not sure if it'll live up to the hype. That's where the Interspecies Reviewers come in! These brave souls will dive crotch-first into the unknown and write a review that tells it true. From time-traveling temptresses to poison-breathed basilisk babes, join Stunk, Zel, and Crim on their erotic adventures as they sample the many deviant delights the world of succubus joints has to offer! Based on the hit manga series by Amahara!

Puella Magi Madoka Magica: The Complete Omnibus Edition
Story by Magica Quartet, Artwork by Hanokage · Available August 18, 2020

Experience the complete story of Puella Magi Madoka Magica in this oversize omnibus!

When a new girl joins her class, Madoka Kaname thinks she recognizes the mysterious, dark-haired transfer student...from a dream where Madoka is approached by a diminutive critter with an offer to change destiny. Madoka had always thought magic was the stuff of fantasy...until she sees the transfer student fighting with that very animal! And just like in Madoka's dream, the creature gives her a choice. Will Madoka become a magical girl in exchange for fulfilling her dearest desire? What will be the cost of having her wish come true?

Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai (Manga)
By Hajime Kamoshida, Artwork by Tsugumi Nanamiya and Keji Mizoguchi · Available August 18, 2020

"Forget what you saw today."

There's something odd about Sakuta Azusagawa, an acerbic, standoffish high schooler who doesn't even own a cell phone in this day and age. And perhaps strange things happen to strange people, which is why on the last day of the Golden Week holiday, in a tranquil library, he meets a wild bunny girl. With that unforgettable encounter, their bizarre and mysterious love story begins.

Rascal Does Not Dream of Petite Devil Kohai (Light Novel)
By Hajime Kamoshida, Artwork by Keji Mizoguchi · Available August 18, 2020

How far can a fake relationship go?

Mai is no longer invisible – she's acting again, and she finally said yes when Sakuta asked her out for the millionth time. Life couldn't be better for Sakuta...until he wakes up and finds himself reliving the morning before she agreed to date him!

Assuming this weird time slip to be another case of Adolescence Syndrome, Sakuta begins searching for clues and stumbles upon the first-year Tomoe. Though the last time they saw each other involved getting kicked in the butt, now she's desperately trying to avoid getting asked out by the boy her friend is crushing on so she won't be ostracized. One ruse leads to another, and soon news spreads that Sakuta is Tomoe's boyfriend. Now how is he going to explain this to Mai...?

The Demon Sword Master of Excalibur Academy, Vol. 1 (Light Novel)
By Yu Shimizu, Artwork by Asagi Tosaka · Available August 18, 2020

Battles for ancient kingdoms are nothing compared to the battles of a classroom!

Awakening from magical stasis after a thousand years, the Dark Lord Leonis suddenly finds himself in the body of a ten-year-old boy! He quickly meets Riselia, a girl confronting the Voids, creatures that have nearly exterminated humanity. Determined to uncover the mysteries of this strange new era, Leonis enrolls in Excalibur Academy, a school that trains students to fight back against these enigmatic monsters. Could the Voids hold some connection to Leonis's past?

The Garden of Words (Novel)
By Makoto Shinkai · Available August 25, 2020

From director Makoto Shinkai comes a deeper look at his award-winning 2013 film, The Garden of Words, full of additional scenes and perspectives to show a whole new side of the many characters who brought the film to life.

On rainy mornings, Takao can never bring him-self to go to school-instead, he spends that time at the beautiful Shinjuku Gyoen gardens and finds a brief reprieve from everything else in his life among the trees and flowers. And on one of those mornings, he discovers a mysterious woman named Yukino in his haven, skipping work, and an unlikely friendship blooms between them. But though these two are the center of this story, they are far from the only ones trying to find their way in life.

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Yen Press Announces Two "Star Wars" Manga for Fall 2020

Yen Press to Release Two New Star Wars Manga — Star Wars Leia, Princess of Alderaan and Star Wars Rebels

NEW YORK, NY – Join the Rebel Alliance as they launch an epic battle against the Galactic Empire in a pair of riveting new Star Wars manga taking place before the events of Star Wars: A New Hope.

Yen Press, in collaboration with Lucasfilm, presents Star Wars Leia, Princess of Alderaan and Star Wars Rebels. Both ongoing series will be available in print and digital.

Star Wars Leia, Princess of Alderaan
Story by Claudia Gray
Art by Haruichi Furudate

A manga adaptation of the beloved YA Star Wars novel, Leia, Princess of Alderaan, by Claudia Gray.

The never-before-told story of how young Leia Organa comes to join the rebellion against the evil Empire. Claudia Gray is the author of Star Wars Lost Stars, a Star Wars YA novel adapted into a manga published by Yen Press.

A young Princess Leia spends her days learning the ways of politics, aiding those in need and preparing for the traditional ceremony in which she declares her intention to one day rule Alderaan. But as Leia prepares herself to be named the heir of the throne, she becomes aware of the growing distance between her and her parents, who behind closed doors are leaders of the newly-formed Rebellion. Upon learning her parents’ secrets, Leia must now make a choice between her responsibility to the people of Alderaan and her responsibility to save a galaxy crushed by the rule of the Empire.

Star Wars Rebels
Story and Art by Akira Aoki

A manga adaptation of the hit 3D animated series Star Wars Rebels seen on Disney XD.

The animated series launched with the first two episodes titled Star Wars Rebels: Spark of Rebellion and was followed by four seasons that aired from 2014 to 2018. The critically-acclaimed show featured fan-favorite Star Wars characters, such as Kanan Jarrus, who was the focus of his own novel and comic book series, and Chopper, a droid who made a brief appearance in the film Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.

Set during an era when the Galactic Empire is hunting down the last of the Jedi, a fledgling rebellion against the Empire begins to take form. Star Wars Rebels takes place in the area surrounding the planet Lothal, where the Galactic Empire battles against Ezra, a teenage con artist with latent Force abilities, Kanan, one of the last surviving members of the Jedi Order, and the rest of the ragtag rebels on board the starship Ghost. 

Lucasfilm, the Lucasfilm logo, STAR WARS and related properties are trademarks and/or copyrights, in the United States and other countries, of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. © & TM Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved.


About Yen Press, LLC:
Yen Press, LLC is a joint venture between Kadokawa Corporation and Hachette Book Group. Founded in 2006, Yen Press is one of the largest and most prolific publishers of manga and original graphic novels in North America and is also a leading publisher of light novels and Japanese literature through its Yen On imprint. For more information, please visit www.yenpress.com.

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Yen Press Announces New "That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime" Title

Yen Press Debuts "That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime: The Ways of the Monster Nation"

Yen Press has launched a notable new manga series with the debut of That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime, Vol. 1: The Ways of the Monster Nation.  The new manga series is a spin-off from the That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime light novel, which has been one of Yen's most successful literary releases.

The new series by Fuse, author of the original That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime light novel, features, artwork by Sho Okagiri and Mitz Vah.  Volume 1 is available now in-print and digitally on Yen Press partner platforms.

About That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime, Vol. 1: The Ways of the Monster Nation:  With all its innovations, the kingdom of Tempest-founded by the demon lord Rimuru-is a veritable paradise for travelers such as Framea, the rabbitfolk chief's daughter. Framea has always had a nose for adventure, an inquisitive mind, and a knack for discovering and identifying the latest and greatest the world has to offer! Her notepad is open at all times, ready for any three-star delights she may encounter, so when Rimuru himself gives Framea a mission to catalog the area's attractions, she will have her work cut out for her-and tons of stars to hand out!

An anime adaptation of the series premiered in October 2018, catapulting the popularity of the series to international attention and currently streams on Crunchyroll and Funimation. A second season of the anime series was recently announced and is scheduled to premiere later this year.

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Yen Press Announces Acquisition of "86 – EIGHTY-SIX" Manga

Yen Press Acquires the Manga Adaptation of 86 – EIGHTY-SIX

NEW YORK, NY – Yen Press, LLC announced the acquisition of the manga adaptation of the military science fiction series 86—EIGHTY-SIX with art by Motoki Yoshihara, story by Asatao Asato and original illustrations by Shirabii.

Long besieged by the fully autonomous killing machines known as the Legion, the Republic of San Magnolia endeavors to turn the tide of war by employing autonomous weapons of their own...  Enjoy Asato-Asato's award winning novel in fully illustrated manga form!

Filled with political and military intrigue, 86—EIGHTY-SIX has grown rapidly in popularity appealing to core fans of light novels as well as fans of military science fiction series such as Code Geass and Mobile Suit Gundam. An anime adaptation of 86—EIGHTY-SIX has been announced for future release.

86—EIGHTY-SIX, Vol. 1 (manga) is scheduled for a December 2020 release.


About Yen Press, LLC:
Yen Press, LLC is a joint venture between Kadokawa Corporation and Hachette Book Group. Founded in 2006, Yen Press is one of the largest and most prolific publishers of manga and original graphic novels in North America and is also a leading publisher of light novels and Japanese literature through its Yen On imprint. For more information, please visit www.yenpress.com.

https://twitter.com/yenpress
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Yen Press Announces "Kingdom Hearts III" and "Wizards of Mickey" Manga

Yen Press and JY to Release Two New Disney Titles: Kingdom Hearts III (manga) and Wizards of Mickey
   
NEW YORK, NY – Yen Press and JY announced the acquisition of two series featuring iconic Disney characters – Kingdom Hearts III (manga) and Wizards of Mickey. Kingdom Hearts III (manga) will be published under the Yen Press imprint and Wizards of Mickey will be published under JY, the Yen Press imprint for middle grade readers.

Kingdom Hearts III (manga)
Created by Tetsuya Nomura
Art by Shiro Amano

A manga retelling of Kingdom Hearts III, the latest in the iconic franchise and one of the best-selling video game releases of 2019.

As the one chosen by the Keyblade, Sora travels once again with his friends Donald and Goofy in order to reclaim his lost power!

Released in early 2019 after more than a decade since Kingdom Hearts II, Kingdom Hearts III was one of the most anticipated video games in history. Kingdom Hearts III (manga) is drawn by Shiro Amano, the fan-favorite artist who worked on all previous Kingdom Hearts manga.

Wizards of Mickey
Story by Stefano Ambrosio
Art by Lorenzo Pastrovicchio

A beautiful full-color graphic novel series featuring Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy in a fantasy setting—an original story about Mickey’s pursuit of magical artifacts and greatness as a wizard.

Originally published in Italy in Topolino, a digest magazine which included Disney comics, Wizards of Mickey is a fun, adventurous fantasy that has been published worldwide in several languages and adapted into a video game and trading card game. JY is thrilled to publish these exciting graphic novels, introducing young readers to a fresh take on the world’s most iconic and beloved Disney characters!

Kingdom Hearts III, Vol. 1 (manga) and Wizards of Mickey, Vol. 1 are scheduled for a November 2020 release.


About Yen Press, LLC:
Yen Press, LLC is a joint venture between Kadokawa Corporation and Hachette Book Group. Founded in 2006, Yen Press is one of the largest and most prolific publishers of manga and original graphic novels in North America and is also a leading publisher of light novels and Japanese literature through its Yen On imprint. For more information, please visit www.yenpress.com.

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https://www.facebook.com/yenpress/
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Yen Press Announces Thirteen New Titles for Future Publication

Yen Press Anime Expo Lite 2020 Announcements

Yen Press Announces Thirteen New Titles for Future Publication

NEW YORK, NY – Yen Press, LLC announced a slate of upcoming titles during the Yen Press Industry Panel that was a part of the Anime Expo Lite virtual event. Acquisitions included manga titles, A Witch’s Love at the End of the World, Strawberry Fields Once Again, The Vampire & His Pleasant Companions, Slasher Maidens, Eniale & Dewiela and Mieruko-chan), new light novels for The World’s Finest Assassin, Reincarnated in a Different World as an Aristocrat, The Place Promised in Our Early Days, The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten, Unnamed Memory, King of the Labyrinth and Reign of the Seven Spellblades) and an art book, Overlord: The Complete Anime Artbook.

These titles are all set for release in December 2020:

Overlord: The Complete Anime Artbook
By Hobby Book Editorial Department

A deep dive into the planning and making of the hit anime adaption of Overlord reveals delicately crafted settings and the incredible detailed outfits and accessories that breathed life into everyone's favorite cast of not-so-good guys!

This series of artbooks features hundreds of illustrations—character designs and concept art that went into the production of all three seasons of the Overlord anime series. Also included are interviews and commentary from the production staff.

A Witch’s Love at the End of the World
Story and Art by Kujira

In a world where magic rules from the shadows, there exists a school for witches. This mysterious academy trains young witches on a path of revenge against those who have used them only as tools. Alice, a magical prodigy, has lived her life by this goal only to have her world turned upside down when Mari, a magic-less human, enters the school and her heart!

A Witch’s Love at the End of the World is a school-life yuri series that takes place in a world of magic. As a series that falls under the josei category, A Witch’s Love at the End of the World appeals greatly to fans of mature and sophisticated yuri manga.

Strawberry Fields Once Again
Story and Art by Kazura Kinosaki

“I’ll never have a 3D romance!” High schooler Akira loves otome games and refuses to have a 3D romance, so she’s caught off-guard when the new transfer student suddenly declares that she is Akira’s future lover! It’s the start of the bittersweet story of two girls who are more than friends but less than lovers!

Strawberry Fields Once Again is a sweet and beautiful yuri manga that is sure to please fans of realistic school-life romances, such as the best-selling Éclair series, as well as manga that portray otaku culture.

The Vampire & His Pleasant Companions
Story by Narise Konohara
Art by Marimo Ragawa

From veteran shoujo manga artist Marimo Ragawa and BL light novelist Narise Konohara comes a strange and sexy tale! When a vampire from Nebraska named Al gets frozen in bat form, he winds up in Japan under the care of a dark and mysterious man covered in a bloody scent!

The Vampire & His Pleasant Companions, a manga adaptation of a popular light novel series, is drawn by Marimo Ragawa, the creator of the shojo series Baby & Me. This sexy and comedic supernatural romance is a must-read for the passionate boys’ love and yaoi audiences.

Slasher Maidens
Story and Art by Tetsuya Tashiro

Around the world, a phenomenon is observed where those whose mental stress reaches a peak transform into monsters called “Kaijin” and succumb to murderous impulses. Such supernatural events were completely unrelated to proud pervert Asuma Sudo, but after he transfers to an all-girls school while chasing the girl of his dreams, he discovers that the school was actually a front for an anti-Kaijin special agency!

Slasher Maidens is a provocative manga series featuring fantasy and harem elements. As the latest series by Akame ga KILL! artist Tetsuya Tashiro, this series will appeal greatly to fans of his previous work as well as fans of gritty school stories such as High School of the Dead and Prison School.

Eniale & Dewiela
Story and Art by Kamome Shirahama

When Eniale the coy angel and Dewiela the serious devil get into frivolous spats, the whole world gets caught up in their antics! Whether it’s wrecking New York in a bid to nab some famous cosmetics, getting into a car chase in Paris over a clothing quarrel, or sinking Tokyo thanks to a zombie outbreak, it’s the advent of an otherworldly duo who are both beautiful and obnoxious!

An earlier work by Witch Hat Atelier creator Kamome Shirahama, Eniale & Dewiela is a quirky manga about an angel, a devil and a ton of trouble the two get into together. Praised for her amazing artistic ability, Eniale & Dewiela features amazing illustrations from Shirahama that showcase a sexier side to her artwork.

Mieruko-chan
Story and Art by Tomoki Izumi

When a girl sees horrific creatures that can't be seen by ordinary people, she doesn't run away or confront the creatures...she simply tries to live a normal life!

Originally a webcomic published in the Pixiv online art community, Mieruko-chan is a unique manga series that does an excellent job mixing horror, comedy and cuteness together. With horror standing out as one of the most popular genres of manga today, Mieruko-chan is sure to be a hit with the many of today’s fans.

The World’s Finest Assassin, Reincarnated in a Different World as an Aristocrat
Story by Rui Tsukiyo
Illustrations by Reia

When a great assassin is reborn in another world, he finds himself the heir to a long line of killers from the shadows. With both his modern-day knowledge and experience and the special magic and techniques of this new world, he could very well become the most unstoppable assassin in history…!

This quirky isekai light novel series follows a reincarnated assassin who is tasked with killing the hero of another world. As an unconventional story told from the point of view of an anti-hero, this series appeals to fans of recent light novel hits such as The Genius Prince’s Guide to Raising a Nation Out of Debt.

The Place Promised in Our Early Days
Story by Makoto Shinkai

In the Soviet-occupied Japan of an alternate history, two childhood friends who have grown apart find each other again and begin a search for a missing third friend-and possibly save the world in the process. Acclaimed director Makoto Shinkai pens his own novelization of his first feature-length animated film!

The Place Promised in Our Early Days is a novel adaptation of an early film by Makoto Shinkai, the celebrated creator of animated films such as your name. and Weathering With You. This hardcover novel is a must-have for fans who have collected the best-selling novel adaptations of Makoto Shinkai’s works previously published by Yen Press.

The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten
Story by Saekisan
Illustrations by Hanekoto

Amane lives alone in an apartment, and the most beautiful girl in school, Mahiru, lives just next door. They’ve almost never spoken—until the day he sees her in distress on a rainy day and lends her his umbrella. To return the favor, she offers him help around the house, and a relationship slowly begins to blossom as the distance between them closes…

The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten is a school-life romance story, a category that has had a resurgence in popularity in the world of light novels. A series that tells the tale of a boy who finds himself in a budding relationship with the most popular girl in school, this series appeals greatly to fans of Bottom-Tier Character Tomozaki.

Unnamed Memory
Story by Kuji Furumiya
Illustrations by chibi

Love can bloom in the strangest places...and people! A cursed king and the world's strongest witch are about to cross paths, forever changing their future and the fate of the world!

Unnamed Memory is a fantasy adventure light novel, one filled with drama, mystery and romance. This light novel series is quickly gaining a passionate fanbase worldwide due to its captivating storyline as well as its beautiful illustrations.

King of the Labyrinth
Story by Shien Bis

On the tenth floor of the labyrinth awaits the minotaur. Many brave adventurers have challenged this great beast, all have thoroughly failed. “More!" Demands the powerful monster. “Send me more powerful opponents!” This creature blindly pursues strength at any cost. Perhaps it will even grow strong enough to surpass the rules of the labyrinth itself! Can any adventurer hope to stand against such a mighty creature?

An unconventional story that is told from the point of view of a powerful dungeon monster, King of the Labyrinth is an intriguing light novel series that puts a twist on the popular genre of dungeon-crawling fantasies such as Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?

Reign of the Seven Spellblades
Story by Bokuto Uno
Illustrations by Miyuki Ruria

Springtime at Kimberly Magic Academy, when new students begin their first year. One boy, clad in black robes with a white cane and sword strapped to his hip, approaches the prestigious school. This young man—Oliver—must form a bond with a katana wielding girl named Nanao if he’s to survive the dangers he’s to face at this school that is anything but what it seems!

Reign of the Seven Spellblades is a light novel series full of fantasy action. A rising star in Japan that has already been adapted into a manga, Reign of the Seven Spellblades appeals to fans of light novels that involve combat in school settings.


About Yen Press, LLC:
­­Yen Press, LLC is a joint venture between Kadokawa Corporation and Hachette Book Group. Founded in 2006, Yen Press has quickly risen to become one of the largest and most prolific publishers of manga and original graphic novels in the North American marketplace and a driving force in the introduction of light novels and Japanese literature to new readers through its Yen On imprint. For more information, visit www.yenpress.com.

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