www.86thfloor.com     PREVIEWS VOL. XVIII #5 May 2008  

Independent Comic Publishers
(Companies beginning with V)

VANGUARD PRODUCTIONS

STERANKO HC
by Jim Steranko & Various
This massive, full-color volume of the controversial creator's career explodes with hundreds of images — many never before collected in book form! The package reveals a multitude of behind-the-scenes stories and analytical insights about comics' most innovative artist, writer, and performer — unknown Marvel art; work with Steven Spielberg & George Lucas; the Secret Origin of Mister Miracle; a collaboration with Harlan Ellison; an annotated Shadow Gallery, and more, in high-quality hardcover format! Also available is a limited Deluxe Slipcased Edition with 16-page Bonus Folio and autographed by Steranko. Don’t miss this superb collection! (C: 0-1-2)
DELUXE SLIPCASED ED—HC, 8.5x11, 128pgs, FC SRP: $49.95
REGULAR EDITION—HC, 8.5x11, 128pgs, FC SRP: $34.95

OFFERED AGAIN

O/A THE AMAZING WORLD OF CARMINE INFANTINO (REVISED) HC
by J. David Spurlock
Carmine Infantino, the legendary artist that launched the Silver Age and co-creator of The Flash, Batgirl, Poison Ivy, and Deadman, tells all in this 180-page, heavily illustrated, autobiographic, career retrospective filled with his revolutionary accomplishments and anecdotes about his colleagues Jack Kirby, Julie Schwartz, Joe Orlando, Neal Adams, Joe Simon, Bill Gaines, and Stan Lee.
HC, 11x8, 180pgs, PC SRP: $29.95

O/A THE ART OF NICK CARDY SC
by John Coates with Nick Cardy
Nick Cardy has been a cartoonist and illustrator for over 50 years. Features a complete recollection of his work, including art from strips, magazines, posters, and books, all indexed by year. Includes a forward by Mark Evanier, an interview with Cardy by Jon Cooke, and an afterward by Kurt Busiek. Foreword by Mark Evanier, with an afterword by Kurt Busiek.
MATURE THEMES
SC, 8x11, 176pgs SRP: $19.95

O/A CURT SWAN: A LIFE IN COMICS SC
by Curt Swan & Various
The elegant comic book art of Curt Swan defined the look of Superman for over 30 years. His amazing skills of storytelling, draftsmanship, and design brought a realism and sense of wonder to The Man of Steel's adventures, making them the best-selling comic books of their day. Filled with iconic and previously unseen pop art, this fascinating biography traces the artist's career from the beginning on features like Gangbusters to his rise as the top Superman artist. Engaging one-on-one interviews with Swan family members as well as comics legend associates like Joe Kubert, Carmine Infantino, Murphy Anderson, and dozens more, paint a portrait of the man as elegant as the artist's own work. Includes never-before-published Superman art and sketches. (C: 0-1-0)SRP: $19.95

VILLARD BOOKS

FLIGHT VOLUME 5 GN
by Various
The previous four editions of Flight have propelled this anthology to the forefront of the graphic novel industry, garnering award nominations, creating great buzz at BEA, Comic-Con and other like-minded conventions, and generally striking a fresh note among jaded comics readers. Featuring short work from some of comics freshest voices, each volume of Flight will challgenge readers with a range of storytelling not often found in the comics medium. Featuring works from these creators: Michel Gagné, Reagan Lodge, Kazu Kibuishi, Phil Craven, Kean Soo, Matthew Bernier, Tony Cliff, Chris Appelhans, JP Ahonen, Sarah Mensinga, Joey Weiser, Bannister, Steve Hamaker, John Martz, Ryan North, Dave Roman, Svetlana Chmakova, Sonny Liew, Graham Annable, Scott Campbell, Kness Made, Richard Pose, And Paul Rivoche. (C: 0-1-2)
SC, 6x9, 352pgs, FC SRP: $25.00

STAR OF THE MONTH

FLIGHT EXPLORER VOLUME 1 TP
Edited by Kazu Kibushi
From Kean Soo's popular Jellaby character to Kazu Kibuishi's own Daisy Kutter, Flight Explorer features characters and worlds that will appeal to young readers. Effective in reaching reluctant readers and bibliophiles alike, Flight Explorer is destined to appeal to younger fans of books and graphic novels and the parents who want to introduce them to the wide world of reading. (C: 0-1-2)
SC, 5x7, 112pgs, FC SRP: $10.00

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VIPER COMICS

THE MIDDLEMAN COLLECTED SERIES INDISPENSABILITY COMPENDIUM SC
by Javier Grillo-Marxuach & Les McClaine
Together in one explosive tome, it's all three volumes of The Middleman, the Viper Comics smash coming soon to ABC Family! It's all here: the complete story of Wendy Watson, art student turned crime-fighter for the world's most absurdly secretive organization, loaded with extras and ready for action! (C: 0-1-2)
SC, 6x9, 336pgs, B&W SRP: $19.95

GYPSY JOE JEFFERSON GN
by Jason M. Burns & Armando Mendoza
Joe Jefferson was secretly chosen to be a super weapon. Kidnapped and experimented upon, he eventually escaped to discover he emits a pheromone that causes anyone around him to go mad with murderous rage. Finding it impossible to stay in one place, Joe hits the road in search for answers, only to meet a woman unaffected by his newfound abilities!
MATURE THEMES
SC, 6x9, 96pgs, FC SRP: $9.95

VIRGIN COMICS

JENNA JAMESON’S SHADOW HUNTER VOL. 1 HC
Created by: Jenna Jameson
Written by: Christina Z.
Art by: Mukesh Singh
Cover by: Greg Horn
From the vivid mind of Jenna Jameson and Witchblade co-creator Christina Z comes Shadow Hunter, the sexiest and deadliest demon slayer… ever!!
Compiling the first three issues and a wealth of bonus material into one hardcover collection, including a full art gallery, a collection of sketches and much more, this is the keepsake of the sexy, sultry and badass Shadow Hunter that you’ve been waiting for.
HC, 7x10, 108pgs, FC $19.99

DAN DARE #7
Written by: Garth Ennis
Art by: Gary Erskine
Cover by: Garry Leach
SPECIAL DOUBLE-SIZED FINALE ISSUE! It’s the final showdown between the Mekon’s massive Treen fleet and the British Navy’s own trusty ships. Will the Mekon’s desire to enslave the human race and destroy Dan Dare finally be realized… or will determination in the face of grim circumstances win out over the blind obedience and sheer numbers of the Mekon’s force? Don’t miss this heart-stopping conclusion to this gripping story!
44pgs, FC $5.99

GUY RITCHIE’S GAMEKEEPER SERIES 2 #5
Created by: Guy Ritchie
Written by: Jeff Parker
Art by: Ron Randall and Ron Chan
Cover by: Mukesh Singh
THE HUNTER BECOMES THE HUNTED! Guns, gangsters, Russian spies and explosives ignite as Brock ventures into enemy territory to rescue the imprisoned Krista Morgan. The story of the Dragonov Equation draws to a close, with major consequences for the Gamekeeper... and the whole world.
MATURE THEMES
32pgs, FC $2.99

JONATHAN MOSTOW PRESENTS: THE MEGAS VOL. 1 TP
Created by: Jonathan Mostow
Written by: John Harrison
Art & Cover by: Peter Rubin
What would life be like if America wasn’t a democracy? What if our founding fathers -- instead of being dedicated to principals of freedom -- were a group of powerful men whose only purpose was to ensure the continuity of their own reign?
Fast-forward 230 years and we have found ourselves entrenched in a totalitarian society, where inferior commoners are governed by the powerful Megas. When the King is assassinated, Detective Jack Madison finds himself at the helm of a race-against-the-clock investigation that unravels one controversial truth after another in this political thriller. Collects The Megas #1-4.
MATURE THEMES
SC, 7x10, 112pgs, FC $14.99

ED BURNS’ THE DOCK WALLOPER VOL. 1 TP
Created by: Ed Burns
Story by: Jimmy Palmiotti and Ed Burns
Written by: Jimmy Palmiotti
Art & Cover by: Siju Thomas
New York City: It’s the roaring 20s and America’s great metropolis has become the nexus of high society culture, cutting edge industry and perhaps the most shocking crime wave in our country’s history. Known for its sinister and treacherous underworld, there’s a new power waking up the city that never sleeps. His name... John "The Hand" Smith. An outcast and an orphan, Smith’s massive right hand is nearly twice as large as his left, and he’s not afraid to use it.
From two of New York's favorite sons, actor/director Edward Burns (Saving Private Ryan, The Brothers McMullen) and comics' legend Jimmy Palmiotti (Painkiller Jane, Monolith) comes a story filled with diamond-toothed gangsters, Chinese gangs, the flirtatious and sexy girlfriend of a mob boss, deadly double crosses and plenty of Tommy Guns. Collects issues #1-5.
SC, 7x10, 144pgs, FC $14.99

JOHN WOO’S 7 BROTHERS VOL. 1 TP
Created by: John Woo
Written by: Garth Ennis
Art by: Jeevan Kang
Cover by: Jonathan Hickman
Available for the first time to the direct market, this is the Jonathan Hickman cover of the first series of John Woo’s 7 Brothers. Written by Garth Ennis (The Boys, Dan Dare, Preacher), this is the collection that has been called “Garth Ennis’ best work to date” by The Comics Review and “a must read by any comic fan” by Comic Fever. Limited copies are available, so act fast! Includes a special introduction by Frank Miller (Sin City, 300). Collects issues #1-5.
MATURE THEMES
SC, 7x10, 144pgs, FC $14.99

THE STRANDED VOL. 1 TP
Written by: Mike Carey
Art by: Siddharth Kotian
Cover by: Marc Silvestri
From the groundbreaking collaboration between SCI FI Channel (Battlestar Galactica, Eureka and Ghost Hunter) and Virgin Comics comes this fast-paced, chilling tale of truly epic scope.
What if your entire life — your childhood, your family, your memories — was a lie? THE STRANDED features a group of seemingly ordinary people that must face the terrifying reality that they're all, secretly, from another world, implanted with false memories to keep them safe from harm. But a deadly, otherworldly force has targeted them for death, and their only hope is a dark, mysterious woman sent to Earth as their protector. One by one, she must awaken The Stranded's true selves — along with their powerful, unique psychic and physical abilities. Collects issues #1-5.
SC, 7x10, 144pgs, FC $14.99

A BRIEF HISTORY OF DEATH GN
Written by: Arjun Gaind
Art by: Ram Soni
Cover by: TBA
A young suicide bomber prepares to destroy a busy train station. But at the moment of impact he is frozen in time, and comes face to face with the God of Death, a creature known as Yama. But death waits for no one… except for those few to whom he gives the choice of life. Will the tale of Yama’s own lost soul help the boy to change his mind? The only hope for life is Death himself.
SC, 7x10, 56pgs, FC $5.99

DEEPAK CHOPRA’S BUDDHA: A STORY OF ENLIGHTENMENT #4
Written by: Deepak Chopra
Adapted by: Joshua Dysart
Art & Cover by: Harshvardhan Kadam
The results will be devastating when Prince Siddartha learns that he shares an attraction for a beautiful young servant girl with Devadatta, his cousin and nemesis. Family loyalties are tested even further when Siddartha learns of Devadatta’s secret conspiracy against him to win not only the girl but also the throne.
32pgs, FC $2.99

DEEPAK CHOPRA PRESENTS: INDIA AUTHENTIC #15—KRISHNA
Created by: Deepak Chopra
Written by: Saurav Mohapatra
Art & Cover by: Virgin Studios
One of the most recognizable of all the hindu deities, Krishna was a warrior, statesman, diplomat and an iconic figure of ancient India. Foretold by a prophecy at birth that he would be the savior of human race, this issue takes a look back at the formative years of Krishna, the young prince who would become the man that would shape the very path of dharma in the world, as he grew up incognito in a village for fear of assassination by vengeful forces.
32pgs, FC $2.99

DEEPAK CHOPRA’S BEYOND #3 (OF 5)
Created by: Deepak Chopra
Written by: Ron Marz
Art by: Edison George
Cover by: Dean Ruben Hyrapiet
Writer Ron Marz continues his adaptation of bestselling author Deepak Chopra's dimension-spanning tale. Still searching for his missing wife, Michael Morton encounters deadly bandits, vengeful police, a mysterious Indian mystic, and even armor-clad ancient warriors -- all pieces to the puzzle of his wife's fate. His quest ultimately will lead him past the borders of our reality and to realms far beyond.
32pgs, FC $2.99

PROJECT: KALKI #3
Written by: Arjun Gaind.
Art & Cover by: Vivek Shinde.
After a devastating loss and the catastrophic unleashing of his powers, Avatar is left virtually catatonic in the ruined remains of his former home. Suddenly finding himself immersed in a world beyond his wildest dreams when he is “rescued” by the agents of the Kali Yuga Corporation, his “palace” soon becomes a prison when he realizes his new-found friends are actually his greatest enemy.
MATURE THEMES
32pgs, FC $2.99

DEEPAK CHOPRA AND SHEKHAR KAPUR PRESENT: RAMAYAN 3392 AD RELOADED #7
Created by: Deepak Chopra and Shekhar Kapur
Story Consultant: Ron Marz
Written by: Shamik Dasgupta
Art & Cover by: Jeevan Kang
The retelling of the famed epic continues! Civil war rages in the kingdom of Kishkindha, and Rama and Lakshman are caught in the middle. With their comrade Prince Angad captured, the wounded Rama and Lakshman hatch a desperate plan to take down the mad King Baali, intending to make him an offer he can't refuse. Meanwhile, Angad watches the horrors of sacrifices on the pyramid of Hanuman. Rama and Lakshman are his only hope, but first they have to make it past the bloodthirsty guards at the kingdom's borders.
32pgs, FC $2.99

SHEKHAR KAPUR’S DEVI #21
Created by: Shekhar Kapur
Written by: Saurav Mohapatra
Story Consultant: Ron Marz
Art by: Chandrasekhar A.
Cover by: Eric Basaldua
An explosive new arc begins for Virgin's mythic heroine! Tara Mehta fused with the spirit of a divine warrior and became Devi, a living goddess. As mankind's champion, Devi has protected the earth and her own city of Sitapur from supernatural scourges and criminal elements alike. But now, as intrigue and betrayals among the gods of Akashik escalate into open war, only Devi can stop the carnage from spilling over into the mortal realm.
32pgs, FC $2.99

THE SADHU: WHEEL OF DESTINY #3
Written by: Shamik Dasgupta
Story Consultant: Ron Marz
Art & Cover by: Manikandan R.
Once a British officer, James Jensen is now a mystic warrior known as The Sadhu. Having joined the rebel cause to save India from the tyrannical rule of the British Empire, The Sadhu employs his powers to enter Limbo once again. This time Jensen must find an alternate reality and fuse it with the real world. But the task proves near impossible, as Jensen travels to myriad worlds, exploring endless possibilities, until he is confronted by a reality that is too much for even him to bear.
MATURE THEMES
32pgs, FC $2.99

VIZ MEDIA LLC

SHOJO BEAT SEPTEMBER 2008
VIZ Media's monthly manga magazine, Shojo Beat, offers vast quantities of serialized shojo manga appearing in the United States for the first time. In addition to tons of beautiful artwork and compelling storylines from well-known manga creators, Shojo Beat offers quality editorial on Japanese trends, art, news, fashion, and culture, plus interviews, how-tos, and more! Shojo Beat is a hip, fun, informative read that will appeal to newbies and manga fans alike. Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 300pgs, PC SRP: $5.99

SHONEN JUMP SEPTEMBER 2008
The world's most popular manga! One of the world's biggest comics, containing the original manga versions of some of the most popular anime ever made! Each issue includes tons of full-color information about toys, TCGs, CCGs, video games and anime, plus amazing manga stories! Also includes a rare YU-GI-OH card, “Dragonic Knight"! Rating: T (C: 1-1-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 328pgs, PC SRP: $4.99

BOBOBO-BO BO-BOBO VOLUME 1 (SHONEN JUMP EDITION) GN
by Yoshio Sawai
In the year 300X, the cruel Emperor Tsuru Tsururina has mandated the hunting of all hair in the Maruhage Empire. But a single man rises to the occasion and takes a stand against this violation of human hair rights. Bo-bobo, master of Fist of the Nose Hair, uses the prehensile hairs of his shnoz to most lethal ends. Follow the nonsensical adventures of Bo-bobo and his sentient sidekick snacks as they lead their "hair"-larious rebellion against the Empire. Rating: T (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $7.99

DRAGON BALL Z VOLUME 2 (VIZBIG EDITION) GN
by Akira Toriyama
With the mighty Kaiô-ken amplifying his strength, Goku fights Vegeta in a desperate battle to save the world — only to find that the elite Saiyan warrior is even stronger than his new techniques! In desperation, Goku calls upon the Genki-dama, the "spirit ball," drawing power from the Earth, its people, plants, and animals. But alone, even Goku is not enough. The last worn-out survivors, Gohan, Kuririn, and Yajirobe, must rush back into the fray to beat the unbeatable Vegeta — as their enraged foe vows to not only wipe out the human race, but destroy the planet Earth itself! Rating: A (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 6x9, 528pgs, PC SRP: $17.99

DRAGON DRIVE VOLUME 9 TP
by Ken-ichi Sakura
In the middle of his match with Maria Tsukimi, Takumi runs into — and almost over! — Taro, a jaded player who's more into napping than fighting. But he's another Raikoo master, and when he wakes up, he's unstoppable! Then a hacker takes over the D.D. system to reshuffle Earth and Rikyu — and, ultimately, reality itself! As humans vanish into Rikyu and dragons soar through the skies of Earth, Takumi races to find the programmer who can stop the worlds from colliding! Rating: A (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $7.99

HOSHIN ENGI VOLUME 8 TP
by Ryu Fujisaki
The land of Seiki's battle for independence from the domination of Empress Dakki begins in full force. After his allies suffer heavy casualties, Taikobo must hold the line against the fury of Bunchu and his forces. Rating: T (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $7.99

MUHYO & ROJI'S BUREAU OF SUPER INVESTIGATION VOLUME 6 TP
by Yoshiyuki Nishi
It's showdown time in the haunted apartments! Rival executor Goryo and his henchman Ebisu's wily tricks wear away at Muhyo's advantage. Does Muhyo even have a chance against these two? And what shocking words does Muhyo have for Roji at the end of this climactic battle? Rating: T (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $7.99

D GRAY-MAN VOLUME 10 GN
by Katsura Hoshino
Hopelessly outnumbered by the Millennium Earl's forces, Lenalee, Lavi, and the rest of the survivors aboard Anita's ship face almost certain annihilation. Then, as if determined to make sure of it, the Noah enter the fray! But the harried agents of the Black Order refuse to throw in the towel, knowing this may be the last stand of the Exorcists. If any hope remains, it could reside with Allen Walker — but no one knows if they'll ever see him again! Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $7.99

EYESHIELD 21 VOLUME 21 TP
by Riichiro Inagaki & Yusuke Murata
It's the Kanto Tournament-Devil Bats versus the Shinryuji Nagas — and the Bats are getting steamrolled! In fact, it's so bad that their star quarterback has pretty much thrown in the towel. He tells them that their chance of winning is less than one percent and not to play hard so they won't be injured and jeopardize their next season. But they know exactly what he means — abandon all fear! Kill yourself if need be, because there's no chance of winning unless this team can pull out more than they ever have! The question is will it be enough? Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $7.99

JOJO'S BIZARRE ADVENTURE VOLUME 11 TP
by Hirohiko Araki
An epic horror-action-adventure! Once there was a mighty bloodline of heroes: the Joestars. In the 1880s, Englishman Jonathan Joestar gave his life to defeat Dio, a megalomaniacal vampire. Now, 100 years later, Dio is back, and Jonathan's descendants must travel to Egypt to destroy their ancestral enemy once and for all. In a café in the shadow of the pyramids, a well-dressed gentleman challenges the heroes to a game of chance. But what begins as a simple bet turns into their deadliest challenge yet! Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $7.99

ROSARIO + VAMPIRE VOLUME 2 GN
by Akihisa Ikeda
All-around average teenager Tsukune can't get accepted to any high school save one — but on his first day he finds the rest of the student body doesn't appear average at all. Best of all, the cutest girl on campus can't wait to fling her arms around his neck! Wait a sec' — are those her teeth around his neck too? Tsukune's going to have one heck of a hickey when he gets home from Monster High! But does he have a chance of raising his grades at a school where the turf war isn't between the jocks and the nerds but the vampires and the werewolves? In this issue: Lesson Two: Witches Quiz — Having a witch for a classmate can create a vexing hex situation if she A) casts spells, stirring up all manner of mischief, just to get attention, or B) has no qualms about using magic to break up you and your girlfriend! Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $7.99

BOYS OVER FLOWERS VOLUME 31 TP
by Yoko Kamio
Mysterious men have knocked out Tsukushi and her on-and-off boyfriend Tsukasa. The two awake to find themselves alone on a boat, a situation that reeks of the diabolical handiwork of Tuskasa's maniacal mother Kaede. Will the two of them survive this insane twist of fate? Rating: T (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

BABY & ME VOLUME 9 GN
by Marimo Ragawa
When Takuya's friend Hitoshi finds a strange woman's photo in his father's cookbook, he panics. Could his ultra-feminine dad really be having an affair? But Hitoshi's problems are just beginning, as an innocent dropped handkerchief leads him to a gang of bank robbers, a team of fighting transvestites, a secret code, and more. Before they know it, Takuya and his friends have been kidnapped, and it's up to Hitoshi's dad — with a little help from Minoru — to save the day! Rating: T (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $8.99

B.O.D.Y. VOLUME 2 GN
by Ao Mimori
Everyone thinks 16-year-old Ryoko has weird taste in guys because she can't stop drooling over Ryunosuke, the strong silent type who sits next to her in class. When she discovers he works for a host club — where women actually pay men to date them — will she finally wise up? Or will he leave his job to be with her? Or will she take a job at the club so he can quit so she can be with him? Only one thing's for sure in B.O.D.Y. — you can't put a price on love! Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 184pgs, B&W SRP: $8.99

FAIRY CUBE VOLUME 2 GN
by Kaori Yuki
Ian used to just see dead people. Now he is one. Trapped inside his own body by the Fairy Cube, Ian must now figure out how to stop the devious spirit Tokage from taking over his life, stealing his girl and ruining any chance he ever has of resurrection. Tokage has troubles of his own when he gets involved with the Gotoh Group, conspiratorial fairies aiming at world domination. But that doesn't stop him from further terrorizing Ian's family and friends. Is Ian's father also in Tokage's clutches? Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 216pgs, B&W SRP: $8.99

HARUKA: BEYOND THE STREAM OF TIME VOLUME 2 GN
by Tohko Mizuno
Akane is your typical teenage girl — until she swallows the Dragon Jewels and is transported to the Heian period of ancient Japan! There in the capital city, Akane learns that she has been preordained to lead the people as the Priestess of the Dragon God! But Akram, the head of the Demon Clan, has sworn death and destruction on the capital. And as Akane learns her duties as Priestess and deepens her trust in the Eight Guardians who will protect her, Akram is watching with great interest! Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $8.99

KAZE HIKARU VOLUME 10 GN
by Taeko Watanabe
A new member arrives from Edo to join the Shinsengumi — the renowned Ito Kashitaro, an intellect and master swordsman. The positive reinforcement he brings to the group and his emphasis on strengthening the mind alongside the body make him popular among the men. But his romantic pursuit of Kamiya brings yet another crisis to those who know her true identity. Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $8.99

SHORT-TEMPERED MELANCHOLIC AND OTHER STORIES GN
by Arina Tanemura
A collection of four short stories from the famed mangaka Arina Tanemura! In "Short-Tempered Melancholic," female ninja Kajika Yamano must protect her family's legendary weapon, but when a boy she has a crush on tells her she should be more ladylike, she vows to give up all ninja deeds. In "This Love is Nonfiction," Yuri sends her pen pal Ryo a picture of herself — but it's really of her best friend Karin, who is prettier than she is. Now Ryo wants to meet her, so she has no choice but to send Karin instead! In "Rainy Afternoons are for Romantic Heroines," Minori falls in love with Takato, a boy who shared his umbrella with her one rainy afternoon. Now she "forgets" her umbrella every time it rains in hopes of becoming closer to him. In "The Style of the Second Love," Mana secretly likes her friend's boyfriend, but Nakamura, a younger boy, is determined to win Mana's heart. Rating: T (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $8.99

SUGAR PRINCESS: SKATING TO WIN VOLUME 1 GN
by Hisaya Nakajo
When Maya Kurinoki takes her little brother to the local ice-skating rink for the first time, she's got her hands full just trying to get him to let go of the bar. To inspire a bit of bravery in him, she attempts a double axel — and lands it! Maya never imagined that this jump would change her life, or that a coach named Eiji Todo would vow to make her a figure skating "princess"! Now all Maya has to do is convince famous skater Shun Kano to become her partner. Too bad Shun doesn't want to have anything to do with her! Rating: A (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 184pgs, B&W SRP: $8.99

TAIL OF THE MOON VOLUME 12 TP
by Rinko Ueda
Usagi and Hanzo finally return to Iga, where a wedding banquet for them awaits. Usagi couldn't be more thrilled that her dreams are coming true! Unfortunately, the arrival of Oda Nobunaga's troops puts an end to the festivities. Can the Iga ninja protect their home against such a large army? Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $8.99

POKÉMON: RANGER AND THE TEMPLE OF THE SEA GN
Somewhere in this world there is a Sea Temple created by the People of the Water. The Sea Temple contains a hidden treasure called the Sea Crown, but no one has ever seen the Sea Crown, or even the Sea Temple, because the temple is protected by a secret mechanism. The temple drifts through a vast ocean undetected, waiting. When Ash and Pikachu meet Lizabeth, a descendant of the People of the Water, they dive headlong into a sea of adventure, hounded by the nefarious pirate known as The Phantom! The manga tie-in to Pokémon Movie 9! Rating: A (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $7.99

BLACK LAGOON VOLUME 1 GN
by Rei Hiroe
Lock 'n' load with the baddest group of mercenaries ever to hit the high seas of Southeast Asia! Aboard their World War II torpedo boat, the Black Lagoon, Dutch the Boss, Benny the Mechanic, Revy Two Hand, and Rock, the salaryman from Japan, deliver anything, anywhere. In the dangerous underworld of the Russian Mafia, Chinese triads, Colombian drug cartels, crazed assassins, and ruthless mercenaries, it's hard to know who to trust. But if you've got a delivery to make, and you don't mind a little property damage along the way, you can count on the crew of the Black Lagoon! Rokuro Okajima was just an average Japanese salaryman, living an average life. But when he's taken hostage by the crew of the Black Lagoon, Rokuro finds himself thrown headfirst into a deadly world of outlawed heroes, brutal villains, and blazing gunfights. Where he ends up is anyone's guess, but one thing is for certain — he's in for a wild ride! Rating: M (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
MATURE THEMES
SC, 6x9, 208pgs, B&W SRP: $12.99

FLAME OF RECCA VOLUME 28 TP
by Nobuyuki Anzai
Deep in the labyrinthine fortress city, Team Hokage learns that it isn't easy to play Kôran Mori's deadly games. The devious Kirito stays one skip ahead of poor, gullible Fuko. Domon gets his crumpet burned when he takes tea at Marie's House. Kaoru just keeps running into one creepy guy after another. Even Kagerô's powers may not be enough to stop the darkest forces of SODOM. And while the rest of the gang squirms in the clutches of ultimate evil, where the heck is Recca? Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

GIMMICK VOLUME 2 GN
by Youzaburou Kanari & Kuroko Yabuguchi
Never one to let a minor inconvenience like a bullet wound get him down — he caught a little lead while trying to prevent a jewel heist — Kohei doggedly pursues a group of thieves who've been using one of his creations for illicit purposes. Can he spring his buddy Shingo from jail and track down the burglars before more blood, both real and costume, is shed? Later, a major Hollywood star contacts Kohei to help him deal with a fanatical female fan, but with a crooked agent thrown into the mix, Studio Gimmick might also have to foil a blackmail plot! Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 224pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

HAYATE THE COMBAT BUTLER VOLUME 8 TP
by Kenjiro Hata
For reasons of no major concern or importance, butler-in-debt Hayate has to leave the Sanzenin mansion for a three-day, two-night trip. Though he has no particular place to go or reason to be there, Hayate does have one thing that's rarely in his possession — money, one million yen from Maria, to be exact. Well, he thought he had some money. Steering clear of gambling should be easy enough, but will cash-strapped classmates and impromptu medical bills leave Hayate's billfold as bleak and barren as his future? Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

INUBAKA: CRAZY FOR DOGS VOLUME 10 TP
by Yukiya Sakuragi
One of the regulars at Suguri's pet shop finds out that his precious little French bulldog, Zidane, has a weight problem! He tries everything from diet food to yoga and even an exercise machine to help the little guy lose that doggy fat! Could someone else be feeding him, too? Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 216pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

INUYASHA ANI-MANGA VOLUME 28 GN
by Rumiko Takahashi
Naraku has disappeared, and Kagome and Inuyasha, tired of battling demons and searching for Shikon Jewel shards, are getting some much-needed R&R in Kagome's time. Meanwhile, back in the Feudal Era, Koga searches for traces of the missing Naraku, only to encounter the female Wolf-Demon, Ayame. When she claims that Koga promised to marry her, Koga doesn't know what to do — nor does he even remember making such a promise! Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 216pgs, FC SRP: $11.99

KEKKAISHI VOLUME 14 GN
by Yellow Tanabe
While his big brother Masamori takes heat from the fearsome Council for the calamity at the Karasumori site, Yoshimori attempts to outsmart an ayakashi who saps his opponent's strength with mind games. Then, when Yoshimori decides to play good Samaritan and help a raven-like ayakashi, will he end up crowing with pride or swearing "nevermore"? Rating: T (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

THE LAW OF UEKI VOLUME 13 TP
by Tsubasa Fukuchi
Team Marilyn can't lose — as long as Marilyn's in charge! She's a powerhouse, mowing down every opponent she finds. Ueki's solution: hide! Now Marilyn is searching for Ueki, Ueki is searching for his teammates, and everyone's searching for the pendant that will win the battle. But with the clock running down, there's still time for Sano to learn a few new tricks — and for Mori to finally figure out what her power is! Rating: T (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

NIGHTMARE INSPECTOR: YUMEKUI KENBUN VOLUME 3 GN
by Shin Mashiba
For those who suffer nightmares, help awaits at the Silver Star Tea House, where patrons can order much more than just Darjeeling. Hiruko is a special kind of private investigator. He's a dream eater. And he'll rid you of your darkest visions, for a price. Dreams on the menu in this volume: an amnesiac with a misplaced sister, a voice actor who can no longer be heard, a wall that blocks true love, an author with a mystical case of writer's block, and a boy who literally masks his feelings. Rating: T (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 184pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

ONE-POUND GOSPEL VOLUME 2 GN
by Rumiko Takahashi
Four years ago, Kosaku pulled off an astounding upset in his pro test by KO'ing a big-time boxer. More than simply sending his opponent down for the count, Kosaku also managed to mangle this pretty-boy fighter's teeth in the process. Now this toothless tyrant is ready for a rematch, but can Kosaku drop down an entire weight class to qualify for the bout? It is said that the weight of a fighter's punch comes down to how hard he grips his fist, but will Kosaku ever get a grip on his pre-fight snacking? Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 240pgs, PC SRP: $9.99

O-PARTS HUNTER VOLUME 11 TP
by Seishi Kishimoto
In the not too distant future, mankind battles over O-Parts, relics from an ancient civilization. It takes a special kind of person to unlock the full potential of these remnants from the past, and a unique breed of humans known as O.P.T.s (or O-Parts Tacticians) become a force to be reckoned with. Unfortunately, O-Parts can be used for good or evil purposes. As the battle between Shuri and Jin intensifies, Anna and Kite remain imprisoned. Meanwhile, Jio and Ball prepare for their battle. Jio is an amazing O.P.T., and Ball is stronger than anyone expected — but their opponent is fierce. Will Jio have to rely on the dark power inside him in order to win? Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

THE RECORD OF A FALLEN VAMPIRE VOLUME 2 GN
by Kyo Shirodaira & Yuri Kimura
Akabara is heavily injured during his battle against Kayuki, the newest incarnation of the Black Swan. Kayuki remains shrouded in mystery — not only does she bear a striking resemblance to the previous Black Swan, but she also offers Akabara a temporary truce! Why does she need to keep the Vampire King alive? Rating: T (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 208pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

ZATCH BELL! VOLUME 20 GN
by Makoto Raiku
There's a new mamodo on the scene — and he has bunny ears. Momon is a somewhat cowardly character who's been able to avoid competing in the battle to become king thanks to his radar-like abilities that allow him to pinpoint other mamodo's locations. But when he uses his skills to catch the ever-ready-to-strangle-someone Tia off guard, he risks earning himself a fast trip to the hospital. What's a naughty bunny in the big city to do? Rating: T (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

NAOKI URASAWA'S MONSTER VOLUME 16 TP
by Naoki Urasawa
Tenma is lying low in Frankfurt, but his brief respite is doomed to be short-lived. Milan, one of Tenma's new friends, is planning to assassinate a man with deep ties to "Red Rose Mansion." Can Tenma dissuade him from this drastic line of action? Also, a seemingly unrelated string of murders by various serial killers hints at a sinister connection with Johan. How many more people need to die before the monster's work is complete? Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 216pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99