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Quick PIcks: July 14, 2015

By takashichea July 16, 2015 0 Comments

Welcome to this week's DVD/BD and manga releases. What series are you guys and gals looking forward to? Thanks to Pikahyper and the gang for uploading awesome covers!

All summaries are from Anime News Network.

Anime

	A Lull in the Sea (DVD 1 of 2) Distributor: NIS America Suggested retail price: $49.99 Due to the closure of their middle school, four students from the sea, Manaka Mukaido, Hikari Sakishima, Chisaki Hiradaira, and Kaname Isaki must attend middle school on the land, despite the growing tension between the land and sea people. While getting used to their new lives, these four and their new friend from the land, Tsumugu Kihara, plan to put on an Ofunehiki, a festival traditionally organized by the land and the sea people, in an attempt to create peace between the two villages. Contains episodes 1-13 and an episode guide leaflet. Special Features: Episode 14: The Promised Day, Clean Opening 1 and Ending 1, Original Japanese Trailers. Spoken Languages: English, Japanese, English subtitles.
	A Lull in the Sea (DVD 2 of 2) Distributor: NIS America Suggested retail price: $49.99 Five years have passed since the Ofunehiki and Shioshishio's hibernation. Itaru and Akari now have a son, Akira. Sayu and Miuna, now 14, attend Mihama Middle School. All the while, Chisaki continues to worry about the whereabouts of Hikari and the others while living with Tsumugu and his grandfather. One day, an unexpected discovery leads everyone to revisit the events of the Ofunehiki and unlock the mysteries lying deep beneath the sea... Contains episodes 14-26 and an episode guide leaflet. Special Features: Clean Opening 2 and Ending 2, Alternative Clean Opening 2 and Ending 2. Spoken Languages: English, Japanese, English subtitles.
	Is the Order a Rabbit? Distributor: Sentai Filmworks Suggested retail price: $59.98 (Blu-Ray), $49.98 (DVD) Coming to a new town to start high school can be intimidating, and that's especially true for Cocoa, who can't find the place she's supposed to be staying when she arrives. When she stops at a cafe to ask for directions, however, it turns out that she's already where she needs to be! You see, the Rabbit House is both a restaurant and a boarding house, and Cocoa will be working there along with the owner's granddaughter, Chino, and the strangely military-obsessed Rize. It's a great place to work, business is hopping, and Cocoa's fits right in with her new coworkers, as well as the girls from two other rival cafes. Still, there IS something just a little odd about the Rabbit House. Besides the fact that Rize usually carries a Glock and a knife hidden on her, there's also a mystery involving the shop's pet rabbit, Tippy. And then there are those girls who sometimes seem to be able to communicate without talking... Contains episodes 1-12. Special Features: Clean Opening and Closing. Spoken Languages: Japanese, English subtitles.
	One Piece - Collection 13 (DVD) Distributor: FUNimation Entertainment Suggested retail price: $34.98 The assault on Enies Lobby rages on as Spandam drags Robin towards the towering Gates of Justice! Zoro's demonic nine-sword fighting style sets the stage for a blistering barrage of heroic attacks as the Straw Hats inch ever closer to a joyous reunion with their captured crewmate. Thankfully, Luffy and his mates manage to emerge victorious, but after bidding a fiery farewell to the Going Merry, these pirates won't be going anywhere! There's a hefty new bounty of each of their heads, and their only hope for escape rests on the cyborg soldiers of Franky. The blue-haired, speedo-sporting shipwright offers to build the Straw Hats a new vessel, but time is of the essence. Some very familiar marines are breathing down their necks, and the crew can't set sail without a boat - or their stubborn sniper. Contains episodes 300-324. Special Features: On the Boat: Behind the Scenes of One Piece, Episode Commentary (300, 301, 317, 319), Textless Openings and Closings, U.S. Trailer, Trailers. Spoken Languages: English, Japanese, English subtitles.
	One Piece - Season 7 Part 1 (DVD) Distributor: FUNimation Entertainment Suggested retail price: $39.98 anji meets his dream girl when the crew crosses paths with Camie, a beautiful mermaid in distress! Luffy agrees to help Camie save her best friend, but the rescue is quickly complicated by surly sea monsters, dive-bombing flying fish, and a foe with an eerily familiar face. The situation gets even stickier when the friend in need of rescue turns out to be a gilled goon from Nami's dark past! Nevertheless, Luffy proves to be a man of his word and unveils some new tricks in a toe-to-toe brawl with a giant brute of a bull. Once the dust settles, the Straw Hats drop anchor at an island bursting with bubbles in the hopes of equipping their ship for underwater travel! But when Camie is kidnapped, job number one becomes saving their newest friend from the cruel clutches of the Celestial Dragons! Contains episodes 385-396. Special Features: Villains and Fisherman: A Peak Behind the Curtain, Episode Commentary (387, 393), Textless Opening and Closing, U.S Trailer, Trailers. Spoken Languages: English, Japanese, English subtitles.
	Sailor Moon R - Season 2 Part 1 (DVD) Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $44.82 After their epic battle, the Sailor Guardians are called back to action when some new and powerful enemies appear! Ail and An are alien siblings bound to the mysterious energy-devouring Makai Tree. And the Black Moon Clan, led by Prince Demande, has the power to destroy all of future Crystal Tokyo! Things get complicated when a mysterious pink-haired girl falls from the sky, demands the Legendary Silver Crystal, and claims Mamoru for her own! Could there also be a new Sailor Guardian? Note: Sailor Moon R is the second season of Sailor Moon, picking up where the first season left off. Contains episodes 47-68. Special Features: Trailers. Spoken Languages: English, Japanese, English subtitles.
	Super Robot Wars - Complete Collection (Sub.DVD) Distributor: Media Blasters Suggested retail price: $25.98 In the new space era, a doctor creates humanoid robots called "personal troopers" to defend Earth against an evil alien race!
	The Familiar of Zero F - Complete Collection Distributor: Sentai Filmworks Suggested retail price: $59.98 (Blu-ray), $49.98 (DVD) Their relationship has been building ever since she first accidentally kidnapped him from Earth, but even with all they've been though together, are Saito and Louise ready to take their relationship to the next level? The answer, sadly, will have to wait, as once again events in Halkeginia are running out of control and Saito and Louise find themselves, along with several other Void Mages, pressed into service to save the world. And while any mission involving Void Magic is sure to suck at some point, the suck-age is certain to be compounded by the fact that one of the mages they'll be working with is the amply endowed elf Tiffania. Who may have designs on getting familiar with Saito herself. Betrayals, reversals and the inevitable side trip to the hot springs lie ahead as the evil plots get plottier, the dysfunctional relationships get even more dysfunctional, and lots of stuff goes BOOM for only vaguely justifiable reasons! Contains episodes 1-12. Special Features: Clean Opening and Closing. Spoken Languages: Japanese, English subtitles.

Manga

Quick Copy and Paste

	07-Ghost Vol. 17 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 The paths of one evil god, two rival empires, three unlikely bishops and seven brave ghosts converge in the destiny of Teito Klein, a boy who vows to master a powerful artifact known as the Eye of Mikael in order to lay bare the secrets of the world’s—and his own—murky past. In this final volume, Teito desperately searches for a way to drag both himself and Frau out of the psychological trap of Verloren’s scythe for a final confrontation with the villainous death god. When the moment comes, will Teito sacrifice himself to save the world he loves? Read the conclusion to the dramatic saga of love’s triumph over evil!
	Case Closed Vol. 55 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 A man is found beaten senseless in a parking lot, and the criminal he fingers is... George? Time for the Junior Detective League to spring into action and clear their friend's name! Then a discovery in the school library reminds Conan of one of his first cases. Flash back to the young Jimmy and Rachel as they track down a sinister intruder in their elementary school after dark... an intruder who seems to have supernatural powers! Can two ordinary kids solve a code left by a master of mysteries?
	Kokoro Connect Vol. 4 Distributor: Seven Seas Entertainment Suggested retail price: $12.99 No summary
	Lone Wolf & Cub [Omnibus] Vol. 9 Distributor: Dark Horse Comics Suggested retail price: $19.99 With waves of warriors seemingly incapable of killing ronin sword master Ogami Itto, the shogun opts for stealth and subterfuge to attack the Lone Wolf. Using a network of prostitute spies to corner Itto, a master poisoner waits in the shadows to accomplish what razor-sharp steel could not! Collects two stories from volume 19, all of volume 20, and four stories from volume 21 in omnibus format.
	Love Stage!! Vol. 2 Distributor: SuBLime Suggested retail price: $12.99 Izumi Sena is an average guy born into a family of famous celebrities. A college student and total otaku, he works hard every day with the goal of someday becoming a manga creator. But right now, he's somehow found himself stuck doing a commercial with popular actor Ryoma Ichijo. To make matters worse, Ryoma makes the situation even more awkward by professing his undying love. Izumi tries to convince him they should first start out as friends, but somehow things get more intimate. Has the romance flag finally been raised?
	Magika Swordsman and Summoner Vol. 1 Distributor: Seven Seas Entertainment Suggested retail price: $12.99
	My Neighbor Seki Vol 3 Distributor: Vertical Suggested retail price: $10.95
	Ranma ½ [2-in-1 Edition] Vol. 9 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $14.99 Meet Picolet Chardin II, master of the tres terrifying "La Belle France School of Martial-Arts Dining." It turns out that Ranma's and Akane's fathers - as they've been known to do, once or twice - have promised one of their children in exchange for a debt, and now that debt's come due. If Ranma can't defeat Picolet at his own game, it'd be more than "La Belle France" - it'd be wedding bells! Collects volumes 17-18 in omnibus format.
	Rin-ne Vol. 18 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 Fall turns to winter, and in the next world everyone is out looking for mushrooms. Gathering around the stew pot stirs the appetite and challenges Rinne to stay focused on his mission to exorcise ghosts! When Tamako's Black Cat by Contract Kuroboshi and his grandson, Kuroboshi the 3rd, arrive it looks like Rinne's winter vacation is going to be all business!
	The Kurosagi Corpse Delivery Service Vol. 14 Distributor: Dark Horse Comics Suggested retail price: $12.99 The Kurosagi Corpse Delivery Service is back...only to find they've got competition from an evil rival version of themselves, not to mention an...American cartoon version of themselves? But don't fear the reaper, because our original corpse-carrying crew is still ready for any gruesome weirdness, classical or modern--from a headless stiff who only does his séances in binary, to a good old-fashioned iron maiden! Excellent!
	The Sacred Blacksmith Vol. 8 Distributor: Seven Seas Entertainment Suggested retail price: $13.99
	Tiger & Bunny Vol. 7 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 At Justice Tower, Tiger, Barnaby and Rock Bison confront Jake, but they’re no match for his unique powers and take a beating. Meanwhile, Origami Cyclone and Edward head to Jake’s secret hideout hoping to capture Kriem and stop the Mad Bears. With the data chip they recover, Saito discovers a way to stop the creepy toys, but the plan requires manpower the team doesn’t have. Fortunately, unlikely allies arrive just in time to offer assistance.

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Quick Picks: June 30 and July 7, 2015

By takashichea July 13, 2015 0 Comments

Welcome everyone to this belated blog. I'm 2 weeks behind. There will be another blog for the releases tomorrow. Sorry for being late. I thought I got a good balance of Anime Vice and To Hollywood and Beyond Wikia work.

What releases are you guys and gals looking forward to? Thanks to Pikahyper and the gang for uploading awesome covers!

June 30

	A Lull in the Sea - Complete Collection [Premium Edition] (Blu-Ray) Distributor: NIS America Suggested retail price: $179.99 Long ago, humans lived in the sea. However, some humans defied the Sea God and moved to the land, creating the division that now exists between Shioshishio, the Sea Village, and Oshiooshi, the village of the land. Now, four middle school students from the Sea Village, Manaka Mukaido, Hikari Sakishima, Chisaki Hiradaira, and Kaname Isaki must attend Mihama Middle School on the surface. While getting used to their new lives, these four and their new friend from the surface, Tsumugu Kihara, learn how true bonds of love and friendship can overcome any separation. Contains episodes 1-26 plus 2 original CD soundtracks and a 76-page full color hardcover art book with character info, an episode guide, text commentary, prop designs, and full background art and art settings. Special Features: Clean Openings and Endings, Original Japanese Trailers. Spoken Languages: English, Japanese, English subtitles.
	Chi's New Address (Sub.DVD) Distributor: Eastern Star Suggested retail price: $44.95 The Yamada family's newest addition, a cute kitty named Chi, isn't welcome by their landlady. Having searched all over for a new owner, eventually the Yamadas decide they can't just abandon a part of the family, and they move into a brand new home that allows them to keep Chi. Skeptical at first, Chi doesn't know what to make of the new home, but eventually she comes to realize that a new place just means new adventures! There are so many new things to see and do, and so many new friends to meet, how will Chi ever find the time to play with them all? A kitten's work is never done. Of course, when Chi gets too wrapped up in her playing, she just might find that the new territory is even more unfamiliar than she first realized! Will Chi be able to make it back to her new home Contains episodes 1-104. Note: Each episode on this release is 3 minutes long. Spoken Languages: Japanese, English subtitles.
	Irregular at magic high school - Enrollment Arc (Sub.Blu-Ray 1 of 3) Distributor: Aniplex of America Suggested retail price: $89.98 Magic - a century has passed since this concept has been recognized as a formal technology instead of the product of the occult or mere folklore. The season is spring and it is time for a brand new school year. At the National Magic University First Affiliate High School, A.K.A Magic High School, students are divided into two distinct groups according to their academic performances. The "Blooms," who demonstrate the highest grades, are enrolled in the "First Course," and the "Weeds," who have a poor academic record, are enrolled in the "Second Course." This spring, a very peculiar brother and sister enroll as new students. The brother is an underachiever with some deficiencies and enrolls as a "Weed," while his younger sister is an honor student, who enrolls as a "Bloom." The brother with a somewhat philosophical disposition and the younger sister who holds feelings a little stronger than sibling love for him... Ever since these two entered through the gates of this prestigious school, the calm campus began to change... Contains episodes 1-7 plus a special booklet and collectible pin-ups, all in a box illustrated by character designer Kana Ishida. Special Features: Get to Know Magic Studies Shorts 1-3, Textless Opening, Trailers and Commericals. Spoken Languages: Japanese, English subtitles.
	Magical Warfare - [Complete Collection] Distributor: Sentai Filmworks Suggested retail price: $69.98 (BD), $59.98 (DVD) The last few years haven't been easy for Takeshi Nanase. His parents are distant, his little brother despises him since "the accident," and his relationship with his girl friend isn't exactly romantic. Even one of the few high points in his existence, studying the Japanese swordfighting technique of Kendo, seems to be a dead end. He's got a definite knack for it, but it's not something that's likely to have any practical application in a future career - or so he thinks until he runs into an unconscious girl in an unknown uniform and suddenly has his world turned upside-down. In short order, he's being held at (magical) gunpoint, rescuing damsels in distress, and finding himself facing off with a group of magic users! But as shocking as finding his life in danger and learning that magic is real may be, what's even more stunning is the revelation that Takeshi's been changed into a magician himself! So maybe those sword lessons aren't going to end up being so irrelevant after all! Contains episodes 1-12. Special Features: Clean Opening Animation, Clean Closing Animation. Spoken Languages: English, Japanese, English subtitles.
	My Little Monster - Complete Collection [Premium Edition] (Sub.Blu-Ray +DVD) Distributor: NIS America Suggested retail price: $69.99 Shizuku Mizutani, who has no interest in anything but her studies, delivers worksheets to Haru Yoshida, a boy known for being a violent and uncontrollable monster. Though he hasn't been to school since the infamous bloodshed he caused on the first day of classes, during their fateful encounter he unexpectedly becomes attached to Shizuku and returns to school. Amid the fights with upperclassmen and all kinds of antics that follow, the two teach each other what it means to care for others. Contains episodes 1-13 plus a 64-page full color hardcover art book with detailed character info, an episode guide, and full color illustrations. Special Features: Clean Opening and Ending, Clean Episode 1 Ending, Japanese Trailers. Spoken Languages: Japanese, English subtitles.
	Space Brothers - Collection 3 Distributor: Sentai Filmworks Suggested retail price: $59.98 (BD), $49.98 (DVD) Contrary to popular belief, the hardest part about becoming an astronaut isn't being shot into orbit while sitting on top of the world's largest fireworks display. Nor is it coming back home in a fiery reentry into Earth's atmosphere. No, those events, while momentous, are easy compared to all the studying and training required to actually get to those points. The hardest part of all is the waiting: waiting to see if the technology for a mission will be ready in time. Waiting to see who gets selected for each crew. Waiting to see if the weather is clear for each launch. And waiting to see if everyone makes it back home alive. That's a lesson that Mutta is now painfully learning twice over, as he waits to find out the result of his JAXA exams and watches while his younger brother, Hibito, prepares for his own historic journey to the moon. Will Mutta finally pass and move on to the next stage of his own training? Will Hibito's mission end in success or tragedy? The tension mounts as the countdown begins! Contains episodes 27-38. Special Features: Clean Opening Animation, Clean Closing Animation. Spoken Languages: Japanese, English subtitles.
	Sword Art Online II - Phantom Bullet Part 1 Distributor: Aniplex of America Suggested retail price: $49.98 (DVD), $79.98 (BD) A year has passed since SAO was cleared. Summoned by Seijirou Kikuoka of the Virtual Division at the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, Kazuto (Kirito) learns of a series of bizarre murders linked to the popular VR game, Gun Gale Online (GGO). After being shot in-game by a player calling himself Death Gun, two prominent GGO players have mysteriously turned up dead in the real world. As Kazuto logs into GGO and starts investigating the mystery, he meets a girl sniper named Sinon who wields a Hecate II rifle. Is she friend or foe? Kirito enters the virtual world once more for an all new adventure! Contains episodes 1-7. Special Features: Textless Opening (Phantom Bullet). Spoken Languages: English, Japanese, English subtitles.
	Limited Edition BD of the same series above. Suggested retail price: $114.98 Contains episodes 1-7 plus original soundtrack CD volume 1, a 16-page deluxe booklet, a postcard set, and an exclusive Weiss Schwarz collectible PR Card.
	Turn A Gundam - Part 1 (Sub.DVD) Distributor: The Right Stuf International Suggested retail price: $49.99 For 2000 years, a separate race of humanity has lived on the moon. Known as "the Moonrace," their technology is leaps and bounds beyond those that stayed behind on the Earth's surface. Now seeking to return to their original home, the Moonrace send three teenagers - Loran, Keith, and Fran - down to Earth on a reconnaissance mission to test the viability of its environment. After spending a year on Earth, Loran has become good friends with Sochie and Kihel, daughters of the prestigious Heim family, and he looks forward to fully integrating into Earth society. But before Loran gets the chance to make his report, the Moonrace launch a surprise attack. Earth's primitive airplanes are no match for the superior power of the Moonrace's mobile suits. However, in the midst of the initial attack, Loran and Sochie uncover a long-forgotten relic: a white mobile suit. As a Moonrace, Loran is quickly able to grasp the basics of piloting it, but by doing so, he inadvertently places himself in the middle of a war. Contains episodes 1-25. Special Features: Clean Opening and Closing. Spoken Languages: Japanese, English subtitles.

	Alice in the Country of Hearts: Junk Box Vol. 1 Distributor: Seven Seas Suggested retail price: $13.99 Alice in the Country of Hearts: Junk Box chronicles the further adventures of Alice as she goes deeper down the rabbit hole. Like the other New York Times bestselling books in the Alice in the Country of Clover series, this new volume is an oversized edition that features impressive artwork and color pinups. The men of Wonderland adore Alice, but she simply can’t make up her mind. Whether it’s Blood, Ace, Joker, Dee and Dum, Pierce, Boris, Elliot, or Gray, each paramour has a claim on Alice’s heart. But whom will she choose?
	Maria the Virgin Witch Vol. 3 Distributor: Kodansha Comics Suggested retail price: $10.99 Maria has flaunted her magic one time too many under the watch of the Church of Heaven, and for this she has paid dearly, as a strike by the archangel Michael's spear leaves her hanging on to life by a thread. But for all her ostentation, her devotion to ending the cruelty of war has firmly placed her in the hearts of those around her, and they won't allow Maria's mission to end here, even if it means standing against the awesome might of an angel. They say that love conquers all, but will passionate pleas and a show of bravery from Maria's friends be enough to sway the judgment of the heavens?
	Non Non Biyori Vol. 1 Distributor: Seven Seas Entertainment Suggested retail price: $12.99 Welcome to the countryside village of Asahigaoka, a quaint town far-removed from the hustle-and-bustle of the big city. You couldn't imagine a more isolated setting in all of Japan. So when Tokyo-raised elementary school student Hotaru Ichijo transfers to the tiny Asahigaoka Branch School due to her father's job, she's in the for the culture shock of her life!
	Witchcraft Works Vol. 5 Distributor: Vertical Suggested retail price: $12.95 No summary

July 7

Notes

Right Stuf, Amazon, and ANN listed Silent Voice Vol. 2 and Pandora of the Crimson Shell: Ghost Urn, but comic stores have it on a later date.
ANN listed Blade Dance of Elementalers Vol. 1 for July 7 while Right Stuf has it for 9/22/2015 and Amazon has it for this week and Oct 8, 2015. (It's confusing why Amazon has 2 dates)
ANN listed Border Vol. 5 for this week. Amazon has it on January 14, 2016. Right Stuf has no date on it.
Itazura na Kiss Vol. 11 is listed by ANN this week. Amazon listed for January 14, 2016. No date for Right Stuf.
While ANN has Monster Musume Vol. 7, Right Stuf and Amazon has it for 8/11/2015.
ANN listed The Hentai Prince and the Stony Cat Vol. 3 for this week. Right Stuf and Amazon had it released back in January 2015.
ANN,

	Atelier, Escha & Logy: Alchemists of the Dusk Sky - Complete Collection Distributor: Sentai Filmworks Suggested retail price: $59.98 (BD), $49.98 (DVD) Ever since she was a little girl, Escha Malier has held two dreams in her heart: to become an Alchemist like her late mother, and to one day explore the mysterious ruins that float in the sky above her home town. Now, after years of study, she's ready to make the first dream come true, working in the R&D branch of her town's Alchemy department. However, while she has all of the knowledge and skills required to meet the job head on, she's not quite as ready for new coworker, Logix "Logy" Fiscario. They seem to be such total opposites, in everything from their attitudes on life to the tools they prefer. Not to mention that he's from the well-populated central region, while she's always lived out on the very edge of what's left of civilization. But as contaminants and pollution threaten the farmlands that keep their people alive, they'll have to work together to seek out the causes and protect their people from the blight and dust that has consumed most of the world. Because sometimes, when one person alone can't save the world, two of them, working in harmony, can. Contains episodes 1-12. Special Features: Clean Opening and Closing. Spoken Languages: Japanese, English subtitles.
	One Week Friends Distributor: Sentai Filmworks Suggested retail price: $59.98 (BD), $49.98 (DVD) Every lifetime is composed of millions of memories... but what happens if those memories don't all connect? When Yuki Hase notices that Kaori Fujimiya seems to be alone and friendless at his school, he immediately wants to reach out to her. Much to his surprise, though, his overtures are turned down, and he's completely stunned when he finds out why: it seems that ever since she was in a tragic accident, Kaori has been losing part of her memory every Monday, including all her recollection of everyone who's become her friend. It's not that she doesn't want friends, but that she can't remember having any. That's not enough of an obstacle for Yuki, however, and he becomes determined to make friends with Kaori every week. Because while most memories fade, there are some that, if you believe strongly enough and never give up, might just be able to last forever. Contains episodes 1-12. Special Features: Kaori's Journal, Clean Opening and Closing, Japanese Promo Spots. Spoken Languages: Japanese, English subtitles.
	Pokémon: Giratina & The Sky Warrior (Dub.DVD) Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $19.97 Deep in the heart of a mysterious forest, a Pokemon named Shaymin stumbles into the midst of a battle between two powerful Pokemon, Dialga and Giratina. Ash and friends meet up with the feisty and sharp-witted Pokemon and discover that its journey and their own share similar themes - love of nature and all living things, and exploring the fragile line between humans and Pokemon. And to make it even more spectacular, get ready for the appearance of Regigigas, a super-powered Pokemon with a frosty demeanor and legendary status! How will Ash and his friends get out of this predicament? Spoken Languages: English.
	Yakitate!! Japan - Part 3 (Sub.DVD) Distributor: The Right Stuf International Suggested retail price: $44.99 After participating in the illustrious international competition like the Monaco Cup, what could Kazuma Azuma possibly do next? Well, return to his roots and head back to Japan! Yuichi Kirisaki of St. Pierre makes a bold challenge to the Pantasia crew. He proposes the Yakitate 9 game show, a revolutionary contest in which Kazuma and the others try to make breads that uniquely represent each and every part of Japan. It's time for Pantasia and St. Pierre to finally settle things once and for all! Contains episodes 53-69. Special Features: Liner Notes (PDF), Clean Opening and Closing. Spoken Languages: Japanese, English subtitles.
	Yu-Gi-Oh! GX - Season 2 (Dub.DVD) Distributor: New Video Group Suggested retail price: $59.99 It's year two at Duel Academy, and this semester is more intense than ever! Jaden somehow passed his finals, so he's now back with his friends to continue his training at the world's most prestigious dueling school! But it's not all about classes and textbooks. This year is filled with one high-stakes battle after another as Jaden faces all new rivals like Pro League All-Star Aster Phoenix, dino duelist Tyranno Hassleberry and the sinister Sartorius! Contains episodes 53-104. Spoken Languages: English.

	12 Beast Vol. 2 Distributor: Seven Seas Entertainment Suggested retail price: $12.99 Eita Touga, heir apparent to a distinguished line of ninja. Trained daily in vigorous and dangerous ninja arts, and capable of dispatching any assortment of foes...but unfortunately for the Touga Ninja Dojo, Eita has no interest in taking over the family business. More interested in raising flags in a dating-Sim than occupying himself with humans of the female variety, Eita has sequestered himself to a life of digital bliss. That is until one faithful day, life comes-a-knockin' - or rather, kicking! When a mysterious harpy-girl kicks in the door to his family dojo, Eita is about to be pirited away into a world of mythological lore, as he must help assist the denizens of an other-worldly dimension stave off against the invasion of a technologically-advanced empire.
	A Centaur's Life Vol. 6 Distributor: Seven Seas Entertainment Suggested retail price: $12.99 Himeno is a sweet, shy girl, who, like many teens her age, struggles with the trials and tribulations of attending high school. The difference is she's a centaur; but she's not alone. In fact, all of her classmates are supernatural creatures, sporting either horns, wings, tails, halos, or some other unearthly body appendage. Yet despite their fantastical natures, Himeno and her best friends - the dragon-winged Nozomi, and Kyoko with her spiraled horns - are down-to-earth, fun-loving teenagers who grapple with issues of life and love in a mostly normal daily school setting.
	Bleach Vol. 64 - Death In Vision Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 Ichigo Kurosaki never asked for the ability to see ghosts--he was born with the gift. When his family is attacked by a Hollow--a malevolent lost soul--Ichigo becomes a Soul Reaper, dedicating his life to protecting the innocent and helping the tortured spirits themselves find peace. Find out why Tite Kubo's Bleach has become an international manga smash-hit! The war between the Soul Reapers and the Quincies continues as Ichigo makes his way towards the Soul Society. Can the remaining Soul Reaper captains hang on enough for Ichigo to arrive before it's too late?!
	Pokemon Adventures Emerald Vol. 29 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 All your favorite Pokémon game characters jump out of the screen into the pages of this action-packed manga!
	Pokemon Adventures: Black and White Vol. 8 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 Pokémon Trainer Black meets White, a Pokémon Trainer who runs a growing talent agency for performing Pokémon. Will Black catch show biz fever too? Meanwhile, mysterious Team Plasma is urging everyone to release their beloved Pokémon into the wild! What are they thinking?! All your favorite Pokémon game characters jump out of the screen into the pages of this action-packed manga!
	Sunny Vol. 5 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $22.99 The fifth installment of this series focused on the young lives of a group of foster children displays the breathtaking peaks and troubled flatlands of their imaginations.
	Twin Star Exorcists Vol. 1 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 Rokuro is from a family of exorcists, but he'd rather be a singer, a soccer player, or anything but an exorcist! He's forced to own up to his own incredible potential when new arrival Benio stirs his competitive spirit. But their rivalry gets a twist when they earn the prestigious title of "Twin Star Exorcists" - two supreme fighters fated to marry and birth the ultimate spiritual warrior!
	UQ Holder Vol. 5 Distributor: Kodansha Comics Suggested retail price: $10.99 No summary
	What Did You Eat Yesterday? Vol. 9 Distributor: Vertical Suggested retail price: $12.95
	World Trigger Vol. 6 - Repel Thy Neighbor! Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 Destroy thy Neighbor! A gate to another dimension has burst open, and invincible monsters called Neighbors invade Earth. Osamu Mikumo may not be the best among the elite warriors who co-opt other-dimensional technology to fight back, but along with his Neighbor friend Yuma, he’ll do whatever it takes to defend life on Earth as we know it. It’s a Neighbor invasion! Trion soldiers swarm Mikado City, wreaking havoc and capturing isolated Border agents. When the sinister humanoid Neighbors orchestrating the attack target Chika for her massive Trion, Osamu may be the only one who can save her! But can a B-Rank agent compete against the surprising power of this new alien foe?
	Yukarism Vol. 3 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 Yukari, Satomi, and Mahoro are all influenced by their past life personalities and begin to lose control over their present-day behavior. While Mahoro wonders about Yukari's true feelings for her, Yukari realizes exactly who Mahoro and Satomi were in the past! Meanwhile, Yukari's journeys to the old days are becoming more and more dangerous...
	Pandora in the Crimson Shell: Ghost Urn, Vol. 1 Distributor:Seven Seas Entertainment Suggested Retail Price: $12.99 When Nanakorobi Nene, a cybernetically-enhanced girl-next-door, heads to the island metropolis of Cenancle to live with her aunt, she has no way of knowing what's in store for her. A chance meeting intertwines her fate with that of the super-rich inventor, Uzal Delilah, and her adorable and grumpy companion, Clarion, who happens to be a cyborg just like Nene. Nene is thrilled to make a friend, but there's more to Uzal and Clarion - and the island of Cenancle itself - than meets the eye. When a super-powered terrorist threatens Cenancle, Uzal claims that the only way to avert disaster is for Nene to team up with Clarion and use their combined powers - abilities Nene never even knew she had!

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Anime Expo 2015 Experiences

By takashichea July 5, 2015 9 Comments

Welcome everyone! This is a short recap on my experiences in my 3rd year of visiting Anime Expo, and it was my first convention back in 2013. Anime Expo takes place in Los Angeles, California USA every year usually on the first week of July.

The first day was on July 2. Things have improved compared to last year with registration and picking up badges. This time around, it was really quick. However, the bag check line afterwards was long. I believe the exhibit hall opened much later than last year. On the first day for this time, it opens at 12 AM and then at 10 AM for each day. I found out this year. They don't allow flash photography of media capture device in panels. Luckily, I had my audio recorder for the 1st day, but I forgot it on the 2nd day.

2 major panel I attended:

Crunchyroll premiere event of episodes 1 and 2 for Rokka Braves of the Six Flowers
Ayako Kawasumi Q & A panel

I won't talk about the premiere event since it's spoilers for the new summer 2015 show. I covered Ayako Kawasumi panel in more depth in a separate thread.

On the 2nd day, I attended the Anime Vice panel, Introducing Your Friends to Anime, and the Right Stuf panel.

Anime Vice Panel

It was great to see Tom, Sam, Anna, Dave, and Cruz giving folks tips on how to introduce anime the right way.

Key Speakers and their first anime

Tom Pinchuk of Anime Vice - Doraemon
Sam Weller of Anime Vice - Ninja Scroll
Anna of Geek World Radio - Dragon Ball Z
Dave of Geek World Radio - Dragon Ball Z
Cruz of Cinefix - Saint Seiya and then Trigun in college

Since I forgot my recorder and my pen, this is what I remember.

Be patient
Recommend genres that they would like
Go for the short anime series
Don't recommend weird or extreme series
Watch shows with them

Anna had the panel started by making everyone do the Kamehameha Wave. It was a bit embarrassing. It was a good wake up exercise in the early morning.

While Tom and the gang were giving tips, Sam passed the mic to audience members who asked questions and giving some manga prizes.

Two of the questions I remember that stood out:

How can you tell the rating of violence, drugs, and etc in the anime? This person was concerned in trying new anime but wasn't sure about the contents. Tom replied that aren't strict ratings if any on anime content. Manga has ratings but it doesn't specify well. Examples: shonen series that are for children are lax on fan service content such as gainax bouncing and such.
How do you get someone back into anime? Cruz mentions go for short anime series that kills in the first episode. Then move on to other anime series that they like.

Deep Anime Topics

We had a deep conversation about storytelling between western and eastern. In western, you have exposition, climax, and resolution, the 3 parts. Anime doesn't really follow that. Some anime series gather parts and then reach resolution. Then, there are shows that explores a concept.

One thing I wanted to note that the panel mentioned Anime Vice Twitter, Facebook, and Youtube, but they didn't mentioned the Anime Vice message board. It could be that they forgot. No biggie.

Right Stuf Panel

The things announced such as titles coming soon are covered in Dream's AX Industry Panel Announcements.

-Revolutionary Girl Utena will be getting released on Blu-Ray in 2016. This will be Rightstuf's first release on the disc format.
-Via their working relationship with Sunrise, Rightstuf will be releasing more titles in the Gundam franchise. Outside of Turn A Gundam, Gundam ZZ and the original Mobile Suit Gundam series, Zeta Gundam, Gundam X and the two Turn A Gundam movies will also be getting releases. The first 21 episodes of Mobile Suit Gundam will be released in a set on both DVD and Blu-Ray formats in the fall of this year with both English and Japanese audio options.
-Rightstuf has also licensed the following titles: Tamayura: Hitotse, Umi Monogatari, Big Windup Season 2, Pita Ten and A Town Where You Live.

Here's the new site's improvements in these features:

Paypal is now included
Enhanced Mobile Experience
Wish Lists which has sales special, customization, unlimited lists for any occasion, check out carts
Quick Views
Enhanced faceted search

The Q & A panel took place after the announcements. Many asked for more Gundam titles, requests for other shows, and the new site. Finally, we had a raffle, and the prizes were a $25, $50, and $100 coupon.

After the Right Stuf panel, I thought I could get into the FUNimation panel, but it was too late. A lot of people were cut off from the panel for some reason.

At the end of the day, I hit the exhibit hall and buy two things for my younger brother and sister as souvenirs and take some photos of cool cosplayers.

Exhibit Hall Cool Things

In Anime Expo, you find lots of things from cosplay props, real swords, art books, manga books, DVDs/Blu-rays, figures, hug pillows, wall scrolls, manicure service, wedding photo booths, games, adult things, and industry booths that hand out free goodies.

Gallery

Cosplay

Gallery

For the cosplay, I was too shy. I tend to go in when a lot of people were snapping pictures instead of asking for personal photo. I do say thank you.

Goodies

I bought a Luigi plushie key chain for my little bro and a Persona 3 art book for my little sis. I visited the Crunchyroll industry panel where they give free posters (either Yamada and the Seven Witches or My Love Story) if you are a member. Got some Parasyte stuff from Sentai Filmworks.

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Quick Picks: June 23, 2015

By takashichea June 23, 2015 0 Comments

Welcome everyone to the Quick Picks! For those who are new, Quick Picks is about promoting and showcasing weekly DVD/BD releases of anime and volumes of manga series, too. It's every Tuesday. It was a project passed down from Geo (Sora_thekey) and Gia Manry.

Sorry, I haven't been updating due to being busy with school and Anime Vice, Now, I got a chance to keep this project running in both Anime Vice and Comic Vine, promoting anime and manga legally.

What are your picks this week?

Thank you everyone and thanks to PikaHyper for manga covers!

Anime

	Bleach - Season 25 Uncut Box Set (DVD) Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $44.82 A year has passed since Ichigo lost his Soul Reaper powers and resumed the life of a normal teenager. But those ordinary days come to an end when Ichigo meets a mysterious man named Kugo Ginjo, who offers to help him get his Soul Reaper powers back - and gives him only a day to decide! Ichigo is dead set against it, until Uryu is injured by an unknown attacker. Ichigo, powerless to help, turns to Ginjo and is introduced to the group Xcution, whose Fullbring powers Ichigo must face in battle if he ever hopes to get strong again! Contains episodes 343-354. Special Features: Omake, Clean Opening and Ending. Spoken Languages: English, Japanese, English subtitles.
	Hayate the Combat Butler: Cuties Distributor: Sentai Filmworks Suggested retail price: $59.98 (Blu-Ray), $49.98 (DVD) It's never easy to be a gentleman's gentleman, but working for a girl who's not only not a gentleman but also a lightning rod for trouble (and not always particularly ladylike either) is a job that few butlers could handle. For Hayate Ayasaki, however, fighting off teenage heiress Nagi Sanzenin's would-be kidnappers is as much a part of butlering as serving the tea. Nor is that the only dangerous activity that Hayate's bound to be asked to perform during the course of the average day. Need to nurse everyone through an illness? Then that's part of Hayate's job description. Got an embarrassing video that has to be retrieved before it hits the internet or need help returning stolen money? Hayate's your manservant! However, as competent as Hayate may seem, there's one thing he's not particularly good at: noticing when pretty girls are attracted to him. Which is probably a good thing, as otherwise the silverware might never get polished! But that won't stop the young ladies from trying to catch his eye, even as the art of domestic service becomes inexplicably intertwined with the martial arts! Contains episodes 1-12 of season 4, Cuties. Special Features: Clean Opening Animation, Clean Closing Animation. Spoken Languages: Japanese, English subtitles.
	Lupin the Third: The Castle of Cagliostro - Collector's Edition (Blu-Ray) Distributor: Eastern Star Suggested retail price: $29.95 In the twilight of his career, master thief Lupin the Third's latest and greatest caper has hit a snag. What should've been bags of cash from a national casino turns out to be expert counterfeits! Together with his partner-in-crime Jigen, Lupin heads to the remote European nation of Cagliostro to exact revenge. Not everything goes as planned; the two encounter Clarisse, a royal damsel in distress being forced to marry the sinister Count Cagliostro against her will. Saving her won't be easy, however, as Lupin and Jigen - together with Lupin's unpredictable ex-girlfriend Fujiko and the swordsman Goemon - must fight their way through a trap-filled castle, a deadly dungeon, and an army of professional assassins! Can Lupin rescue the girl, evade the cuffs of his long-time nemesis Inspector Zenigata, and uncover the secret treasures of The Castle of Cagliostro? Features TBA. Spoken Languages: English, Japanese, English subtitles.
	Nyaruko: Crawling with Love! - Season 1 (Sub.Blu-Ray) Distributor: NIS America Suggested retail price: $54.99 Mahiro Yasaka finds his quiet life thrown into chaos when he's attacked one night by a fearsome demon. Luckily for Mahiro, Nyaruko, the Crawling Chaos, has been sent by the Planetary Defense Agency to protect him. It turns out all of the creatures from Lovecraft's Cthulhu Mythos are in fact just aliens! Soon enough, Kuko, the Ravenous Chaos, and Hasuta, the Deity of Wind, have entwined themselves in Mahiro's life as well. Follow Mahiro and gang as they fight for their lives, learn about love, discover intergalactic video games, and perhaps even save the world! Contains episodes 1-12. Special Features: Clean Opening and Ending, Japanese Trailers. Spoken Languages: Japanese, English subtitles.
	Origin: Spirits of the Past [S.A.V.E.] Distributor: FUNimation Entertainment Suggested retail price: $19.98 (Blu-Ray), $14.98 (DVD) Ages past, the Forest was awakened and the Moon unleashed a ravenous Beast upon the Earth. Man cowered in fear... Three hundred years since and the landscape of the world has been drastically rewritten. The remnants of humanity are divided as never before. Half seek a tenuous coexistence with the Forest, half seek to dominate and subdue what they cannot understand. Agito, the son of an aged hero, inadvertently sets in a motion the destruction of all that is left when he revives the young Toola from her timeless slumber. Unable to reconcile life as she once knew it from the world as it is now, Toola calls forth ancient technology to reshape the future from the ashes of the past. With the blessing of the Forest, Agito must first save the girl from herself in order to rescue them all... Special Features: "The Making of Agito" 50-Minute Documentary, The Quest for Never-Before-Seen Visuals, Voices to Give Life to the Art, The Harmony of the Visuals and Sound, The Premiere, and Then to Asia, Theatrical Trailers, TV Spots. Spoken Languages: English, Japanese, English subtitles.
	Wagnaria!!2 - Complete Second Series (Sub.Blu-Ray) Distributor: NIS America Suggested retail price: $54.99 Sota Takanashi, Popura Taneshima, and the rest of Wagnaria's zany crew are back in Wagnaria!!2! Whether it's Sota being reduced to tears over the death of an innocent bug, Kyoko calling in her old gang to cover some shifts, or Soma hilariously meddling in the personal lives of his co-workers, each day brings something new to the table! But if you're a man, be warned! Inami still packs quite a punch... Contains episodes 1-13. Special Features: Clean Endings, Japanese Trailers, Japanese Commercials. Spoken Languages: Japanese, English subtitles.
	Yuruyuri: Happy Go Lily - Season 1 (Sub.Blu-Ray) Distributor: NIS America Suggested retail price: $54.99 Right after starting middle school, Akari Akaza joins the Amusement club, whose only other members are her two childhood friends, Kyoko Toshino and Yui Funami. Chinatsu Yoshikawa, Akari's classmate, becomes the fourth member after falling head over heels for Yui. The Amusement club meets at the abandoned Tea Ceremony club room and has no clear purpose, leaving the girls to do whatever they want. More often than not, Kyoko stirs up some wild scheme to get everyone in trouble as a means to pass the time and experience the ideal middle school life! Contains episodes 1-12. Special Features: Clean Opening and Ending, "B-side" Episode Previews. Spoken Languages: Japanese, English subtitles.

Manga

	Alice in Murderland Volume 1 Distributor: Yen Press Suggested retail price: $16.99 The Mad Tea Party... To members of the elite house of Kuonji, a clan whose name has incredible pull all over the world, this monthly gathering is the only long-standing (not to mention mandatory) family tradition. But one such family reunion brings with it some unexpected and horrific news for the nine Kuonji siblings, and it comes straight from the lips of their mother Olga. To become the next head of their illustrious family, the siblings must fight each other to the death! As chaos erupts, Stella, the fourth daughter, loses it and suddenly a whole new Stella, complete with blonde hair and blue dress, comes out to play?! Story and art by Kaori Yuki.
	Are You Alice? Volume 9 Distributor: Yen Press Suggested retail price: $13 With Hatter’s true identity revealed and his name reclaimed, he renews his determination to retrieve Alice–the real Alice, that is–and break free of Wonderland. It quickly becomes apparent that he has no qualms about destroying anyone or anything that stands in his way. Now, the ever impetuous “probably” Alice must decide for himself if Hatter is still his ally…or the ultimate enemy.
	Barakamon Volume 5 Distributor: Yen Press Suggested retail price: $15 Gaining tremendous inspiration from nature, handsome young (and bug-hating) calligrapher Seishuu Handa makes strides in his creative endeavors. But while anguishing over the individuality of his calligraphy, he receives a phone call from Tokyo, and...?!! The tale of bumbling Sensei, who doesn't even hold back against children, and his warm island neighbors trundles into the last days of summer, which bring with them bittersweet memories!
	Bloody Cross Volume 7 Distributor: Yen Press Suggested retail price: $11.99 Nao and Hinata quickly realize that infiltrating Kamuhaburi will be far more difficult than spying on Tsuzuki or even Arcana. Their first objective is to find a way to contact Izumi--and when they do, they aren't happy with what they hear. Izumi wants to recover not only Arcana's stolen relics, but all of the relics Kamuhaburi has collected as well. But there's more he's not telling them, and even more their Kamuhaburi guide, Kanade, is holding back. With no one they can trust, the squabbling spies must work together to complete their mission or be trapped inside forever!
	Chaika: The Coffin Princess Volume 1 Distributor: Yen Press Suggested retail price: $13 Five years of inconceivable peace after two hundred years of war has left erstwhile soldier Tooru Acura without a job or meaning in life--until he saves a mysterious sorceress with a coffin on her back. But when the coffin-wielding, silver-haired Chaika Trabant hires Tooru and his sister, Akari, to accompany her on a death-defying journey, Tooru's life of mind-numbing, meaningless peace is about to end!
	Demon from Afar Volume 3 Distributor: Yen Press Suggested retail price: $18 With Nonoha spirited away by demons, Sorath infiltrates their territory only to find himself bearing witness to a horrific public execution dubbed the “Divine Judgment.” Surrounded by countless sacrifices, reeling from Leice’s betrayal, and faced with his beloved Nonoha having been taken hostage, Sorath’s memory is rekindled, and the night when he lost his dearest friend comes rushing back to him. Will Sorath clash once more with the fearsome being who preys on human lives, the Lord of Terror?!
	Freezing - [Omnibus 1] (GN 1-2) Distributor: Seven Seas Suggested retail price: $19.99 Extraterrestrial beings have invaded our garden world, hellbent on wiping humanity off the face of the planet. The only hope is a specialized force of genetically-engineered female "Pandoras" and their male partners known as "Limiters," who represent the last line of defense against a horrific alien force. Kazuya Aoi is a Limiter who enrolls in a prestigious academy that trains genetically-engineered soldiers. Having made a promise to his Pandora sister who died in battle, Kazuya must overcome his sadness and become the best he can be. His first major obstacle is a frigid second-year student known as Satellizer el Bridget, who has remained undefeated in combat simulation. Does Kazuya have what it takes to beat her, while readying himself for an impending war? Collects volumes 1-2 in omnibus format. Story by Dall-Young Lim and Art by Kwang-Huyn Kim.
	He's My Only Vampire Volume 1 Distributor: Yen Press Suggested retail price: $13 Upon Eve's invitation, Aki agrees to attend the Soiree on his own. However, Kana and Jin aren't far behind, trailing him in secret. Then, at the climax of the blood-drenched ceremonies, Kana's "Awakening" begins at last!
	Let's Dance a Waltz Volume 2 Distributor: Kodansha Comics Suggested retail price: $10.99 No summary Story and art by Natsumi Ando.
	Love at Fourteen Volume 3 Distributor: Yen Press Suggested retail price: $15 Kanata and Kazuki are unwittingly pit against each other during a feud between the girls and boys, and their budding relationship is put to the test when personal feelings explode their mature facades! With their perfect student reputations also on the line, can Kanata and Kazuki reconcile their differences, or will their argument become someone else's gain? Story and art by Fuka Mizutani.
	Noragami: Stray God Volume 5 Distributor: Kodansha Comics Suggested retail price: $10.99 Story and art by Adachitoka.
	Nurse Hitomi's Monster Infirmary Volume 2 Distributor: Seven Seas Suggested retail price: $12.99 For fans of "Monster Musume" comes an all-new monster girl series!"""Nurse Hitomi's Monster Infirmary" is a new ongoing manga series that provides a hilarious and fresh look at school life through the eye of its cyclops heroine. Serialized in Japan in the same manga magazine as "New York Times" bestseller "Monster Musume," "Nurse Hitomi's Monster Infirmary "is sure to appeal to fans of the monster girl genre. Nurse Hitomi is not your typical school nurse. Newly-employed as a high school nurse, who just happens to be a cyclops, Nurse Hitomi must fumble her way through the many inhuman issues that arise in a school rife with monstrous characters. Welcome to the infirmary! We haven't been expecting you.
	Secret Volume 2 Distributor: Yen Press Suggested retail price: $12.99 When one of the students is attacked after his sins are brought to light, the remaining survivors grow ever more suspicious of each other. As secrets arise and suspects collide, the question remains: If one murderer truly was hiding in their midst, are there really two more watching from within? Story and art by Yoshiki Tonogai.
	Your Lie in April Volume 2 Distributor: Kodansha Comics Suggested retail price: $10.99 After the death of his mother, child prodigy Arima Kosei gave up the piano forever - or so he thought. That vow turned out to be no match for the persistence of sprightly violinist Kaori Miyazono, who's roped Arima back into the world of competitive classical music. But after so many years, will Arima be able to sit down at the ivories again like nothing happened? Or will history repeat itself, with Arima crumbling under the pressure? Story and art by Naoshi Arakawa.

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My 1st Comic Con: Long Beach CC 2014

By takashichea September 27, 2014 0 Comments

Gallery

Today, I visited the Long Beach Comic Con in Long Beach, California, USA. It's my first comic book convention which will promote the Comic Book Club and the Convention forum in Anime Vice and Comic Vine. I'm relatively new comic book fan who hasn't read much comic books. I got into the world of comics through the animated series of Batman, Superman, and Spider-Man. It was interesting to see the similarities and differences between comics and anime/manga media. I have attended Anime Expo back in 2013 which was my first time.

I got the convention a bit late due to missing the metro and getting lost in this city. I finally found it. Thanks to folks at the supreme court building (the image on the far right). The convention was located around Pine Ave and East Ocean BLVD. I was at Magnolia Ave. Somehow I walked pass it. I'm like Zoro of One Piece who has no sense of direction.

The Long Beach Convention is much different from Los Angeles Convention center. LB was near the ocean. It was a windy day. You can smell the sea. I walk on the bridge that connected the beach to the convention when I was exploring the area. I never been to the beach for a long time. It was sight to see.

After sightseeing, I went inside the convention and see the wonders of Long Beach Comic Con. It was not very crowded compare to Anime Expo. Plus, this comic con was more family friendly. I see more children and parents at this convention at Anime Expo. Forgive for comparing the conventions. AX was my first anime convention while this one was my first comic one. This would be the last comparison. I do like both conventions. They are both different.

I somehow walk past the artist alley or exhibit hall as I was lost a bit. I forgot to to take their programming booklet when I went to pick up my badge. The panels were located past the artist alley. Later on, I found out the artist alley and exhibit hall was located underground. I line up for a random panel. It turns out it was for the Batman 75/Tales of the Dark Knight. Speakers were Marc Andreyko, Brian Buccellato, Chris Burnham, Kyle Higgins, Babs Tarr, Marv Wolfman, and Ralph Garman. I was lucky the subject of the panel was very familiar to me. I haven't read Batman comics, but I'm familiar with the animated series. It was a fun panel.

Things I Learn from Batman 75 Panel

I learned Marv Wolfman (if I remember correctly) was the creator of Tim Drake. He said he created the character to be the opposite of Dick Grayson. He wanted the character to have no trauma, living family members, and be intelligent.
Babs Tarr - She is the writer of Batgirl. She has only been to 2 comic cons and only seen 5 Batgirls and a crossplayer. A crossplayer is a new term I picked up. It's like cross-dressing (I hope I described it politely). We had a guy dress up as Batgirl. He was proud of it.
Ralph Garman's favorite Catwoman is the lady portrayed by Julie Newmar.

That's all I can remember. I didn't take notes or had my tape recorder. This was my first time meeting these talented comic book artists and writers who contributed a ton to the Batman mythos.

Artist Alley

I saw comics were packaged differently than manga. Some booths have them on display or in boxes

I had a list of comic book recommendations from Marshal Victory, Taichokage, GokaiRed, and Supreme Marvel. I was a bit too shy. I just browse around and look at the comic books and artists' work. I didn't find those particular recommendations. I did notice Silver Age and Bronze Age comics were a lot of cheaper. I assume because they were older issues, way older than me. As an anime fan who hasn't read comic books, these are a lot thinner than tankobon. I recall comic books were shorter than manga chapters. A manga chapter is about 20 (weekly) and up to 40 pages (monthly types). I never opened up a hard copy comic book. I read a few on Comixology.

At the end of the day, I only bought two items. In the I'm going to Long Beach Comic Con 2014! blog, Marshal recommended me writers and artists to visit and to see their works. I'm fortunate to meet one of the folks he recommended: James O' Barr.

As a shy person who never read comic books, I didn't want to tell the artist that I haven't read his works yet. I felt that was disrespectful. I stood around the corner, observing his fans interact with him for 30 minutes or so. I wanted to observe how folks talk to their beloved artists. It was the same interaction I saw how anime fans spoke with their beloved voice actors and actresses. I learned one etiquette from one observation. A camera guy was taking pictures of O' Barr's works. The lady who was assisting O' Barr asks him to not photograph the works unless you purchases them. I eventually muster up courage. I didn't get a chance to speak with O' Barr. He was busy sketching for a fan. I just quietly bought one of his works for 20 dollars which had cars on it. I'm a grease monkey (see Recommend some Awesome Car Wallpapers). I love how he drew the cars.

The Despicable Me/Sora of Kingdom Hearts tiny portrait was a gift for my little sister who couldn't attend this convention with me. She loved Despicable Me and Kingdom Hearts. It was a double win. It was made by talented artists. I donated 15 dollars to them.

I forgot to bring my poster tube. I had to hold the poster in my hand without damaging the work.

Cosplay

Last but not least. I will share some photos!

Gallery

Some of you may know, I'm a different person on the web and in real life. I have a hard time asking folks to take pictures of their beautiful cosplay. I stick around, wandering the area where the panels are located. If there is a large group taking pictures, I would join them. In the Anime Convention Survival Guide! that BigHeart711, myself, and sickVisionz wrote, we emphasize respectfulness. When you take pictures, you always ask first. If it's a group shot, they already consented to. Go ahead and join in. I followed what we wrote in the guide.

Thank you for reading this blog! I hope to see more folks sharing their experiences in any conventions for this community. I fully support anyone who goes to a convention. It's worth your time. Go out and meet these folks who share your passion.

2nd Day

Bet Acura Max would love this cosplay shot. It was the only cosplay photo I took on my day. If you remember, I'm not good with people in real life. I was waiting, and I saw this opportunity with a bunch of other folks swarming the Walking Dead cosplayers. I took the chance and was fortunate of it. For Walking Dead fans, please check out the The Walking Dead Discussion thread!

Today was pretty short. I attended one panel, Psychology of Harley Quinn, that was moderated by Tony Guerrero (G-Man - staff writer of Comic Vine). The speakers were Jimmy Palmiotti and Amanda Conner (the creators of the new Harley Quinn series). We had Andrea Letamendi who is a real psychologist giving her medical expertise into the panel.

Memorable Moments in the Harley Quinn Panel

I loved how the couple, Jimmy Palmiotti and Amanda Conner, engaged the panel with their marriage and linking it to Harley Quinn. It was very amusing. When Amanda admits that mental illness runs in the family, Jimmy jokingly makes fun of his wife. He also mentions his wife still talks to her 1st husband and he knows it. These two writers have made me fall in love with them, figuratively. I wanted to read their works especially on Harley Quinn.
What Scares New Comic Readers? - As you know, I'm a new comic book fan who is overwhelmed and doesn't know where to start. When Jimmy Palmiotti mentions this, he connected to me on a level. He said it's the continuity. Comic Books have so many writers, different interpretations, reboots, and canon vs non canon. If you are a new fan, you ask the salesman if it's all right to read the latest issue, let's say #135. You have to read the other 134 issues. Luckily, Jimmy and Amanda's Harley Quinn series is good for beginners. I heard him say if you pick up a random issue, you won't be lost.
Amanda's favorites (one of the faves) is the scatapult, a catapult for throwing animal feces. I wished I tape recorded or had a camcorder. I remembered but not clearly. She was inspired by the annoying garbage truck in Florida or New York that comes up every 6 AM or early mornings.
Learned a new term, Anti-Villain. I'm a nerd, but we all learn new things every day. I didn't think there was an opposite to Anti-Hero. It makes a good wiki page for Anime Vice. Harley is indeed the anti-villain because she feels she is the heroine in her eyes despite her brutal violence. Amanda described her as the most compassionate and loyal character in the Batman Mythos.

I wished I took pictures of the panel including G-Man. I was too far from the panel to make a good shot. My camera is blurry if flash setting is off. I don't like using flash during a panel. I felt it was rude. I didn't muster the courage to ask the panel since they were so busy.

Goodies

I set up a budget for myself, 60 dollars. I spent 56 dollars in total. I wanted to buy the Harley Quinn comic book series because of the panel. I had reached my budge. The Killing Joke was 11 dollars while Spider-Man was 10 dollars. I chose the Killing Joke because folks recommended the series in the Comic Book club. It was the only thing I can find out of the recommendations I had received from my friends in Anime Vice. The Spider-Man was an impulse buy. On the back cover, I saw Shadow Cat (Kitty), one of favorite X-Men gals, was hooked up with Spider-Man.

In my mind, I was "no!" I was curious to see how the relationship work. Spider-Man is a whore to me. He got Black Cat, Gwen, and Mary Jane. He has more, I know. I haven't read enough comics on Spider-Man. I only know his 1994, Spectacular Spider-Man and Ultimate Spider-Man animated series.

Thank you for reading this blog. I hope it promotes conventions in this site. I do encourage folks to visit conventions because it's worth the adventure.

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Weekly Manga Releases: August 19, 2014

By takashichea August 20, 2014 0 Comments

Welcome to the manga releases for this week! We have a large selection of manga series. The series I'm familiar and hyped for are Attack on Titan Before the Fall, Btooom! (which isn't in anime stores this week), and Monster Musume. I'm pretty interested in Food Wars. It got a colorful cover, and the summary sounds interesting. Best cover of the week would go Alice's Adventures. I just like the cover since it's vivid and reminds me of how many manga and anime adaptations on Lewis Carrol's novel.

Disclaimer: I'm just promoting the official release and the publishers. I'm not selling you anything. This is to combat piracy and get fans to support the official release. All summaries are from ANN.

Sources

ANN - Video Releases
Right Stuf

Notes

ANN does not list Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass. Right Stuf, Amazon, and Comic stores all listed it this week.
Chi's Sweet Home Vol. 11 is only listed on Amazon and Comic stores for this week.
Btooom Vol. 7 is listed on ANN this week. However, both Amazon and Right listed it for August 26.
Comic stores list From the New World Vol. 5 this week. In contrast, Amazon, Right Stuf, and ANN listed its release back in July 29.
Regarding From the New World Vol. 5, the same thing applies to Missions of Love Vol. 8 as well.
Comic stores have Food Wars Vol. 3 this week. The anime stores do not have Food Wars Vol. 3 or Vol. 2 listed due to digital edition and print edition conflicts.
Anime stores, Right Stuf, and Amazon listed Monster Musume Vol. 4 on August 19 while Comic stores have it a day later.
ANN listed No. 6 Vol. 8 this week while Amazon and Right listed it for August 26.
Comic stores and Amazon (Kindle version) have One-Punch Man Vol. 4 listed this week.
Comic stores and Right Stuf list Trigun Maximum Omnibus 4 for August 6 while Amazon and ANN list it for August 19.
Oh My Goddess! Vol. 46 is listed on Amazon and ANN for this week. However, Right Stuf and Comic stores listed back in August 6.

PikaHyper:

Oh and Food Wars v3 is not in comic shops this week, only the digital edition came out, only the first volume is available in print as of two weeks ago.

Manga Releases

	Attack on Titan: Before the Fall Vol. 2 Distributor: Kodansha Comics Suggested retail price: $10.99 The second volume in a prequel series to the number one bestseller in Japan. Humanity has learned to live in complacency behind its high walls, protected from the giant Titans. But when a Titan-worshipping cult opens one of the gates, a Titan wreaks havoc, consuming the cultists. After the rampage is over, two young Survey Corps members are shocked to discover a pregnant woman's partially digested corpse - with her baby still alive inside it! What will the fate of this "child of the Titans" be? And how will humanity learn to cope with the Titan threat?
	Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass Vol. 1 Publisher - SEVEN SEAS Suggested Retail Price: $14.99 Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass is an omnibus collection that contains Lewis Carroll's original Alice in Wonderland novels with manga-style artwork. Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass is a collection of stories featuring Alice and her misadventures through the curious and fantastical lands of Wonderland. As little Alice goes deeper and deeper down the rabbit hole, she meets an assortment of oddball characters, like the eccentric March Hare, the whimsical Mad Hatter, and the enigmatic Cheshire Cat, who will all become familiar faces within this strange world. If Alice is to navigate the dangerous yet fascinating landscape of Wonderland, she must learn who is friend and who is foe, and use her good breeding and wits to find a way home.
	Chi's Sweet Home Vol. 11 Publisher: Vertical Suggested Retail Price: $13.95 Chi's Sweet Home is recognized as one of the most popular cartoon properties in Japan today. Chi, this full color comic's titular cat, is beloved by fans worldwide on the Internet and mass media. A tender fun adventure focusing on the life of a newborn kitten and the young family that raises her.
	Monster Musume Vol. 4 Distributor: Seven Seas Entertainment Suggested retail price: $12.99 Orcs, Werewolves, and Mermaids, Oh My! So far, Kimihito’s been lucky. The monster girls living with him have been cute, curvaceous, and have never tried to kill him on purpose. But now, the dark side of liminals rises to the surface. Piggish orcs run hog-wild over Japan to satisfy their perverted desires. And the team that the government assembles to combat them is every bit as strange and inhuman as the criminals they’re fighting. Meanwhile, Kimihito has to contend with adding the lovely and elegant mermaid Mero to his ever-growing menagerie of monster girls. How will the possessive Miia, the noble Centorea, the bird-brained Papi, and the slime-girl Suu react to the newest addition to their household—and yet another contender for Kimihito’s heart?
	Ikigami The Ultimate Limit Vol. 10 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $12.99 Congratulations! You have been randomly selected by the government...to DIE in 24 hours! Dear Citizen: Thank you for your loyalty. You've no doubt noticed that the world is a troubled place. People are apathetic, lazy, unmotivated. You've probably asked yourself WHY ISN'T ANYTHING BEING DONE TO STOP THIS SYSTEMATIC DECLINE? Rest assured that measures are being taken. Beginning today, we will randomly select a different citizen who will be killed within 24 hours of notification. We believe this will help remind all people how precious life is and how important it is to be a productive, active member of society. Thank you for your continued attention and your cooperation and participation... Episode 19 : Entrusted Words Episode 20 : The Phantom Country One more time… Live as if you’re about to die.
	The Heroic Legend of Arslan Vol. 1 Distributor: Kodansha Comics Suggested retail price: $10.99 In the prosperous kingdom of Pars lies the Royal Capital of Ecbatana, a city of splendor and wonder, ruled by the undefeated and fearsome King Andragoras. Arslan is the young and curious prince of Pars who, despite his best efforts, doesn't seem to have what it takes to be a proper king like his father. At the age of 14, Arslan goes to his first battle and loses everything as the blood-soaked mist of war gives way to scorching flames, bringing him to face the demise of his once glorious kingdom. However, it is Arslan's destiny to be a ruler, and despite the trials that face him, he must now embark on a journey to reclaim his fallen kingdom.
	Haganai: I don't have many friends Vol. 8 Distributor: Seven Seas Entertainment Suggested retail price: $12.99 And then there were nuns... Kodaka's life hasn't been easy since joining the Neighbors Club. Getting dragged into conversation by another strange nun was the last thing he needed. Then again, her advice seemed sound, until he discovered she was seriously twisted. Now her close ties to another member of the club will make it even harder for Kodaka to escape her. At this point, however, Kodaka is used to not being in control of his destiny. Whether it's studying with Sena (and discovering an unnatural obsession!), or having Maria invade his home to fight with Kobato, Kodaka's learned to go with the flow. Of course, this may not be the best approach to life, especially when it seems like other people are calling the shots for him!
	Gangsta Vol. 3 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $12.99 Ergastulum is a tough town, the kind of place where the rule of law takes a backseat to the law of violence, and where Handymen like Nic and Worick make a living doing odd jobs for their clients, from routine deliveries to extrajudicial killings. Discreet, ruthless, and efficient, the men are respected by both the police brass and the Mafia dons, but it took many long, hard years for them to make their names. Behind those years is the hidden history of how the scion of an elite family and a boy soldier of the Twilights ranks formed an improbable, unbreakable bond.
	Food Wars Vol. 3 Publisher: Viz Media No Suggested Retail Price Yet The "teamwork and friendshipbuilding" camp from hell begins! While most students are already petrified by the threat of instant expulsion for low marks, the unveiling of the teachers responsible for judging their dishes ratchets their fear to a whole new level! Just which anxiety-inducing teachers hold the culinary futures of Soma and the rest of the Polaris crew in their hands this time? Includes the one-shot "Your and My Romance Counseling"!
	Dorohedoro Vol. 13 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $12.99 In a city so dismal it's known only as "the Hole," a clan of Sorcerers has been plucking people off the streets to use as guinea pigs for atrocious "experiments" in the black arts. In a dark alley, Nikaido found Caiman, a man with a reptile head and a bad case of amnesia. To undo the spell, they're hunting and killing the Sorcerers in the Hole, hoping that eventually they'll kill the right one. But when En, the head Sorcerer, gets word of a lizard-man slaughtering his people, he sends a crew of "cleaners" into the Hole, igniting a war between two worlds. En's murder sends his gang into chaos as Shin and Noi attempt to hunt down his killer's whereabouts. Meanwhile, Nikaido and Asu team up to locate the elusive Caiman. And the Cross-Eyes continue their quest to see their boss; unaware of his role in En's death, or that their path is taking them straight into danger themselves. A battle royale of the bloodiest kind awaits…
	Strike Witches: 1937 Fuso See Incident Vol. 1 Distributor: Seven Seas Entertainment Suggested retail price: $12.99 Strike Witches is a highly popular dieselpunk franchise that spans manga, light novels, video games, and anime. The series reimagines World War II as a confrontation between the allied human forces and an invading alien menace. Most of the battles featured are fictional recreations of actual World War II dogfights, but in this alternate history, teen girls with advanced weaponry and magic powers perform aerial combat against alien aircraft. It has been nearly twenty years since the last Great War, and while smaller skirmishes are still taking place across the world, peace is mostly the norm. In the Fuso Empire, Sakamoto Mio is about to join the war effort against the Neuroi alien invaders. She will have to distinguish herself among the other hardworking cadets if she is to become a full-fledged Strike Witch. Soon, she will have the chance to prove herself in battle, as the Neuroi launch their latest brutal attack.
	Tsubasa RESERVoir CHRoNiCLE Vol. 1 Distributor: Kodansha Comics Suggested retail price: $19.99 Childhood friends Princess Sakura and Syaoran, the son of an archaeologist, become entangled in a series of events that forces them to traverse through alternate realities on an action-packed adventure! In the Kingdom of Clow, an archeological dig unleashes an incredible power, causing Sakura to lose her memories. To save her, Syaoran must follow the orders of the Dimension Witch and travel alongside Kurogane, an unrivaled warrior, Fai, a powerful magician, and Mokona Modoki, a curiously strange creature, to retrieve Sakura's dispersed memories! But first, there is a price to be paid... Collects volumes 1-3 in an omnibus format.

Adult Releases

In the comic stores, its release date is August 20, 2014. For Amazon and Right Stuf, it's September 2, 2014.

A Strange Kind of Woman Vol. 2

Publisher: Eros Comix
Suggested Retail Price: $14.39

Eros proudly presents a sequel to the wildly successful STRANGE KIND OF WOMAN. Mamaru has landed the love of strange and sexy Shion (and her menagerie of vibrators), but after getting caught in a fight between Shion and the hot and aggressive Yuki he's got amnesia! Mamaru is racing to find his way back to the woman he knows he loved. Meanwhile, a teacher who broke the school doctor's heart when she was a student has returned and offers Yuki a love potion to best Shion and win Mamaru and the price is only- Yuki's body! All presented in the traditional Manga right-to-left style.

Start the Conversation

Weekly Manga Releases: August 19, 2014

By takashichea August 20, 2014 0 Comments

Sources

ANN - Video Releases
Right Stuf

Notes

ANN does not list Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass. Right Stuf, Amazon, and Comic stores all listed it this week.
Chi's Sweet Home Vol. 11 is only listed on Amazon and Comic stores for this week.
Btooom Vol. 7 is listed on ANN this week. However, both Amazon and Right listed it for August 26.
Comic stores list From the New World Vol. 5 this week. In contrast, Amazon, Right Stuf, and ANN listed its release back in July 29.
Regarding From the New World Vol. 5, the same thing applies to Missions of Love Vol. 8 as well.
Comic stores have Food Wars Vol. 3 this week. The anime stores do not have Food Wars Vol. 3 or Vol. 2 listed due to digital edition and print edition conflicts.
Anime stores, Right Stuf, and Amazon listed Monster Musume Vol. 4 on August 19 while Comic stores have it a day later.
ANN listed No. 6 Vol. 8 this week while Amazon and Right listed it for August 26.
Comic stores and Amazon (Kindle version) have One-Punch Man Vol. 4 listed this week.
Comic stores and Right Stuf list Trigun Maximum Omnibus 4 for August 6 while Amazon and ANN list it for August 19.
Oh My Goddess! Vol. 46 is listed on Amazon and ANN for this week. However, Right Stuf and Comic stores listed back in August 6.

Manga Releases

	Attack on Titan: Before the Fall Vol. 2 Distributor: Kodansha Comics Suggested retail price: $10.99 The second volume in a prequel series to the number one bestseller in Japan. Humanity has learned to live in complacency behind its high walls, protected from the giant Titans. But when a Titan-worshipping cult opens one of the gates, a Titan wreaks havoc, consuming the cultists. After the rampage is over, two young Survey Corps members are shocked to discover a pregnant woman's partially digested corpse - with her baby still alive inside it! What will the fate of this "child of the Titans" be? And how will humanity learn to cope with the Titan threat?
	Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass Vol. 1 Publisher - SEVEN SEAS Suggested Retail Price: $14.99 Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass is an omnibus collection that contains Lewis Carroll's original Alice in Wonderland novels with manga-style artwork. Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass is a collection of stories featuring Alice and her misadventures through the curious and fantastical lands of Wonderland. As little Alice goes deeper and deeper down the rabbit hole, she meets an assortment of oddball characters, like the eccentric March Hare, the whimsical Mad Hatter, and the enigmatic Cheshire Cat, who will all become familiar faces within this strange world. If Alice is to navigate the dangerous yet fascinating landscape of Wonderland, she must learn who is friend and who is foe, and use her good breeding and wits to find a way home.
	Chi's Sweet Home Vol. 11 Publisher: Vertical Suggested Retail Price: $13.95 Chi's Sweet Home is recognized as one of the most popular cartoon properties in Japan today. Chi, this full color comic's titular cat, is beloved by fans worldwide on the Internet and mass media. A tender fun adventure focusing on the life of a newborn kitten and the young family that raises her.
	Monster Musume Vol. 4 Distributor: Seven Seas Entertainment Suggested retail price: $12.99 Orcs, Werewolves, and Mermaids, Oh My! So far, Kimihito’s been lucky. The monster girls living with him have been cute, curvaceous, and have never tried to kill him on purpose. But now, the dark side of liminals rises to the surface. Piggish orcs run hog-wild over Japan to satisfy their perverted desires. And the team that the government assembles to combat them is every bit as strange and inhuman as the criminals they’re fighting. Meanwhile, Kimihito has to contend with adding the lovely and elegant mermaid Mero to his ever-growing menagerie of monster girls. How will the possessive Miia, the noble Centorea, the bird-brained Papi, and the slime-girl Suu react to the newest addition to their household—and yet another contender for Kimihito’s heart?
	Ikigami The Ultimate Limit Vol. 10 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $12.99 Congratulations! You have been randomly selected by the government...to DIE in 24 hours! Dear Citizen: Thank you for your loyalty. You've no doubt noticed that the world is a troubled place. People are apathetic, lazy, unmotivated. You've probably asked yourself WHY ISN'T ANYTHING BEING DONE TO STOP THIS SYSTEMATIC DECLINE? Rest assured that measures are being taken. Beginning today, we will randomly select a different citizen who will be killed within 24 hours of notification. We believe this will help remind all people how precious life is and how important it is to be a productive, active member of society. Thank you for your continued attention and your cooperation and participation... Episode 19 : Entrusted Words Episode 20 : The Phantom Country One more time… Live as if you’re about to die.
	The Heroic Legend of Arslan Vol. 1 Distributor: Kodansha Comics Suggested retail price: $10.99 In the prosperous kingdom of Pars lies the Royal Capital of Ecbatana, a city of splendor and wonder, ruled by the undefeated and fearsome King Andragoras. Arslan is the young and curious prince of Pars who, despite his best efforts, doesn't seem to have what it takes to be a proper king like his father. At the age of 14, Arslan goes to his first battle and loses everything as the blood-soaked mist of war gives way to scorching flames, bringing him to face the demise of his once glorious kingdom. However, it is Arslan's destiny to be a ruler, and despite the trials that face him, he must now embark on a journey to reclaim his fallen kingdom.
	Haganai: I don't have many friends Vol. 8 Distributor: Seven Seas Entertainment Suggested retail price: $12.99 And then there were nuns... Kodaka's life hasn't been easy since joining the Neighbors Club. Getting dragged into conversation by another strange nun was the last thing he needed. Then again, her advice seemed sound, until he discovered she was seriously twisted. Now her close ties to another member of the club will make it even harder for Kodaka to escape her. At this point, however, Kodaka is used to not being in control of his destiny. Whether it's studying with Sena (and discovering an unnatural obsession!), or having Maria invade his home to fight with Kobato, Kodaka's learned to go with the flow. Of course, this may not be the best approach to life, especially when it seems like other people are calling the shots for him!
	Gangsta Vol. 3 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $12.99 Ergastulum is a tough town, the kind of place where the rule of law takes a backseat to the law of violence, and where Handymen like Nic and Worick make a living doing odd jobs for their clients, from routine deliveries to extrajudicial killings. Discreet, ruthless, and efficient, the men are respected by both the police brass and the Mafia dons, but it took many long, hard years for them to make their names. Behind those years is the hidden history of how the scion of an elite family and a boy soldier of the Twilights ranks formed an improbable, unbreakable bond.
	Food Wars Vol. 3 Publisher: Viz Media No Suggested Retail Price Yet The "teamwork and friendshipbuilding" camp from hell begins! While most students are already petrified by the threat of instant expulsion for low marks, the unveiling of the teachers responsible for judging their dishes ratchets their fear to a whole new level! Just which anxiety-inducing teachers hold the culinary futures of Soma and the rest of the Polaris crew in their hands this time? Includes the one-shot "Your and My Romance Counseling"!
	Dorohedoro Vol. 13 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $12.99 In a city so dismal it's known only as "the Hole," a clan of Sorcerers has been plucking people off the streets to use as guinea pigs for atrocious "experiments" in the black arts. In a dark alley, Nikaido found Caiman, a man with a reptile head and a bad case of amnesia. To undo the spell, they're hunting and killing the Sorcerers in the Hole, hoping that eventually they'll kill the right one. But when En, the head Sorcerer, gets word of a lizard-man slaughtering his people, he sends a crew of "cleaners" into the Hole, igniting a war between two worlds. En's murder sends his gang into chaos as Shin and Noi attempt to hunt down his killer's whereabouts. Meanwhile, Nikaido and Asu team up to locate the elusive Caiman. And the Cross-Eyes continue their quest to see their boss; unaware of his role in En's death, or that their path is taking them straight into danger themselves. A battle royale of the bloodiest kind awaits…
	Strike Witches: 1937 Fuso See Incident Vol. 1 Distributor: Seven Seas Entertainment Suggested retail price: $12.99 Strike Witches is a highly popular dieselpunk franchise that spans manga, light novels, video games, and anime. The series reimagines World War II as a confrontation between the allied human forces and an invading alien menace. Most of the battles featured are fictional recreations of actual World War II dogfights, but in this alternate history, teen girls with advanced weaponry and magic powers perform aerial combat against alien aircraft. It has been nearly twenty years since the last Great War, and while smaller skirmishes are still taking place across the world, peace is mostly the norm. In the Fuso Empire, Sakamoto Mio is about to join the war effort against the Neuroi alien invaders. She will have to distinguish herself among the other hardworking cadets if she is to become a full-fledged Strike Witch. Soon, she will have the chance to prove herself in battle, as the Neuroi launch their latest brutal attack.
	Tsubasa RESERVoir CHRoNiCLE Vol. 1 Distributor: Kodansha Comics Suggested retail price: $19.99 Childhood friends Princess Sakura and Syaoran, the son of an archaeologist, become entangled in a series of events that forces them to traverse through alternate realities on an action-packed adventure! In the Kingdom of Clow, an archeological dig unleashes an incredible power, causing Sakura to lose her memories. To save her, Syaoran must follow the orders of the Dimension Witch and travel alongside Kurogane, an unrivaled warrior, Fai, a powerful magician, and Mokona Modoki, a curiously strange creature, to retrieve Sakura's dispersed memories! But first, there is a price to be paid... Collects volumes 1-3 in an omnibus format.

Adult Releases

In the comic stores, its release date is August 20, 2014. For Amazon and Right Stuf, it's September 2, 2014.

A Strange Kind of Woman Vol. 2

Publisher: Eros Comix
Suggested Retail Price: $14.39

Start the Conversation

Weekly Manga Releases: August 5 & 12, 2014

By takashichea August 19, 2014 0 Comments

Welcome to the first week of manga releases. We have a lot of volumes! Besides Toriko which I need to catch up, I have been meaning to read D. Gray-Man. I forgot where I am in the manga. @taichokage has been working on the wiki project. I have tempted to read his work instead of reading the manga. Food Wars looks interesting to try. I haven't read manga series that revolves around cooking.

Please feel free to share your thoughts on what manga releases you're interested in this week. Thank you.

The covers are from Amazon and Right Stuf for the Anime Vice threads. In Comic Vine, I'm using PikaHyper's covers. I thank him for the wiki pages.

Sources

ANN - Video Releases
Right Stuf

Notes:

ANN listed D-Frag Vol. 1's release date as July 15, 2014. Amazon, Right Stuf, and Comic stores have it listed for August 5, 2014.
Same for Bleach Vol. 61. ANN has listed it for June 3, 2014.
For Fairy Tail Vol. 40, ANN, Amazon, and Right Stuf have its release date on July 15, 2014. For comic book stores, Fairy Tail Vol. 40 is available on August 5, 2014.
MPD-Psycho's release date is July 23 for Right Stuf and Comic stores while Amazon and ANN has it on August 5.
Pride & Prejudice and Les Miserables are not covered by ANN. Amazon's release dates for these 2 are August 19 while Right Stuf has it on August 13.

August 5

Temporary Quick Picks Manga

	Alice in the Country of Joker: Nightmare Trilogy Vol. 1 Distributor: Seven Seas Entertainment Suggested retail price: $13.99 Alice has been living in the Clover Tower for a while now, and with the coming of April Season, she is able to see Julius again and has met with Joker. Nightmare isn't very pleased, and comes up with ways to keep Alice distracted with all sorts of mini adventures. While Alice can't get away from Nightmare's penetrating gaze, she does not fear him; she may even love him. What will happen when Alice wakes up?
	Black Rose Alice Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 Dimitri Lewandoski is a celebrated tenor in early 1900s Vienna. When he is killed in an accident, his corpse is colonized by the seeds of a vampire master. At first, Dimitri denies that anything has changed, but as the people around him start dying, he is forced to accept the ghastly truth. Flash-forward to 2008. In Tokyo, Azusa Kikukawa's troubled love life comes to an end with a fatal accident. Dimitri appears in her dying dreams with a diabolic proposal he will save her lover if she agrees to become the breeding ground for the next generation of vampire seeds...
	Bleach Vol. 61 Publisher: VIZ Media Suggested Retail Price: $9.99 Ichigo Kurosaki never asked for the ability to see ghosts—he was born with the gift. When his family is attacked by a Hollow—a malevolent lost soul—Ichigo becomes a Soul Reaper, dedicating his life to protecting the innocent and helping the tortured spirits themselves find peace. Find out why Tite Kubo's Bleach has become an international manga smash-hit! With the true identity of his sword finally revealed, how will Ichigo take the next step forward? Will his new Zanpaku-to be ...
	D-Frag! Vol. 1 Distributor: Seven Seas Entertainment Suggested retail price: $12.99 Kazama Kenji thinks he's a delinquent. He's got the look, the style, and the attitude to match; he even has a second-rate entourage of sorts. Deep down, however, Kazama is a good-hearted kid who finds himself and his loyal gang in over their heads when they stumble upon the Game Creation Club. The club's formidable members, Chitose, Sakura, Minami and Roka, are four girls who he might actually be attracted to if they weren't so freaking weird. The girls claim to have otherworldly powers which they use to defeat Kazama's gang and force him to join their offbeat club. Can Kazama resist the girls' bizarre charms and return to some semblance of a normal, everyday life... or is it "game over" for our hapless hero?
	D. Gray-Man Vol. 24 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 Allen, now joined by two companions, is still on the run and trying to deal with his demonic alter ego, the Fourteenth. This means avoiding erstwhile allies as well as overt enemies. He also has to prevent one of his companions, fellow Exorcist Kanda, from trying to destroy the Fourteenth while keeping the Fourteenth from destroying his other companion, Johnny, whose zealous devotion to Allen is gratifying but not much help in a fight!
	Dragonar Academy Vol. 3 Distributor: Seven Seas Entertainment Suggested retail price: $12.99 Sylvia, the fourth princess of Lautreamont, has grown up feeling overshadowed by her eldest sister's accomplishments, while Veronica, a battle-hardened war hero, is ruthless in demanding that her younger sister live up to her expectations. When the infamous terrorist known as Avdocha comes to Lautreamont, wanting nothing less than to take Veronica's head, the younger Sylvia becomes her bait that will lure Veronica into a trap. Ash Blake must use his ability to command any dragon at will in order to rescue Sylvia. But can his heroics help Sylvia hold her head high and fight back as a proud princess of Lautreamont?
	Food Wars! Shokugeki no Soma Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 Soma Yukihira's old man runs a small family restaurant in the less savory end of town. Aiming to one day surpass his father's culinary prowess, Soma hones his skills day in and day out until one day, out of the blue, his father decides to enroll Soma in a classy culinary school! Can Soma really cut it in a place that prides itself on a 10 percent graduation rate? And can he convince the beautiful, domineering heiress to the school that he belongs there at all?!
	Gantz Volume 32 Distributor: Dark Horse Comics Suggested retail price: $13.99 The devastating war against the alien invaders is over! A new day of peaceful coexistence is dawning! Olive branches for everyone! Of course, before tranquility can be attained, something must be done about the nasty Gantz "terrorists" monkey wrenching the works. Fighting monstrous extraterrestrials is tough enough, but how about taking on the entire human race?
	Happy Marriage Vol. 7 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 In order to help her father, Chiwa Takanashi agrees to an arranged marriage with the company president, Hokuto Mamiya—a man she doesn’t know—at the request of Hokuto’s grandfather. Chiwa believes the arrangement isn’t binding, but her new partner seems to think otherwise. Can two strangers living together find their way to a happy marriage?!
	High School Debut Vol. 7-9 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $14.99 Hapless Haruna needs help finding a boyfriend! After failing to win the eye of any guy in high school, Haruna enlists the help of cute upperclassman Yoh to coach her on how to make herself more appealing to the male spec ies. Yoh agrees, with one catch: Haruna had better not fall for him!
	Hello Kitty Vol. 3: Just Imagine Distributor: Viz Media Suggested Retail Price: $7.99 Anything is possible if you just imagine... Hello Kitty and her friends are letting their imaginations run wild—dreaming up rainy day adventures, inventing amazing machines and solving problems in the most inventive ways. When creativity and friendship combine, the possibilities are endless! And don't miss Sarah Goodreau's flights of fancy!
	Kaze Hikaru Vol. 22 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 In the 1860s in Japan, a new era is dawning. During this time fraught with violent social upheaval, samurai of all walks of life flock to Kyoto in the hope of joining a band of warriors united around their undying loyalty to the Shogunate system. This group became one of the greatest (and most infamous) movements in Japanese history...the Shinsengumi! Now that Sei has been transferred to the third troop under his command, Saito grows increasingly suspicious of Sei’s true identity. He is visited by dreams of his old friend, Sei’s brother, Yuma. The memories of Yuma’s words gradually grow more vivid, and Saito finally realizes Sei’s secret. Feeling he must protect her, Saito confronts Soji with an ultimatum: expose Sei to Hijitaka and have her dismissed from the troop, or allow Saito to take her as his bride.
	MPD Psycho Vol. 11 Distributor: Dark Horse Comics Suggested retail price: $12.99 "Dead Man's Galaxy Days" skips back in time to events that take place before MPD-Psycho Volume 1. Yosuke Kobayashi seems like a smart, driven Tokyo police officer, but he'll soon be transformed into a tragic "multiple personality detective." The ongoing mystery of the Gakuso gang and their murderous "barcode clones" unravels further, and MPD-Psycho's strange supporting cast is seen in a totally new light as a serial killer - the Tokyo Mirror Man - terrorizes the city with his chainsaw!
	Les Miserables Vol. 1 Distributor: Udon Suggested Retail Price: $24.99 Adapted for stage and screen, loved by millions, Victor Hugo's classic novel of love & tragedy during the French Revolution is reborn in this fantastic new manga edition! The gorgeous art of TseMei Lee brings to life the tragic stories of Jean Valjean, Inspector Javert, and the beautiful Fantine, in this epic adaptation of Les Miserables!
	Nura: Rise of the Yokai Clan Vol. 22: Purification Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 The battle against Nue heats up as Rikuo and members of the opposing clans move to Mt. Osore, a holy mountain where spirits of the dead are called into battle. Will a reforged Nenekirimaru, the renowned yokai-killing blade, work to defeat the legions of the undead?
	Pokemon Black and White Vol. 17 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $4.99 Black has achieved his dream of entering the Pokémon League! Now can he fulfill his dream of winning it...? Black’s friends Iris and Cheren are competing too! But Cheren is starting to change—and not in a good way... Meanwhile, what will happen when the Shadow Triad attack three Legendary Pokémon...? Plus, watch four thrilling Pokémon League battles: Black vs. Lou Karr, Cheren vs. Leo, Marlon vs. Hood Man, and Iris vs. Gray! Who are these mysterious participants really...?
	Rosario + Vampire II Vol. 13: Alter Egos Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 Average human teenager Tsukune accidentally enrolls at a boarding school for monsters--no, not jocks and popular kids, but bona fide werewolves, witches and unnameables out of his wildest nightmares! On the plus side, all the girls have a monster crush on him. On the negative side, all the boys are so jealous they want to kill him! And so do the girls he spurns, because he only has eyes for one of them--the far-from-average vampire Moka. On the plus side, Moka only has glowing red eyes for Tsukune. On the O-negative side, she also has a burning, unquenchable thirst for his blood... When villains' true identities turn out to be nested like Russian dolls... a. dance the squat dance b. find a new body to inhabit yourself c. count your blessings
	Spell of Desire Vol. 1 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 Kaoruko Mochizuki runs an herb shop in a small seaside town. One day, a mysterious man dressed in black named Kaname Hibiki enters her shop and reveals that Kaoruko is actually a witch. And what's more, Kaoruko needs Kaname to help control her awakening power! Among the shocking news Kaname imparts is that Kaoruko's mother is still alive and has entrusted Kaoruko with the immense power of the Witch Queen. As long as Kaoruko has that power, she will be the target of humans and demonic spirits alike. Kaname claims to be a "knight" that protects witches, but then he steals a kiss from Kaoruko!
	Toriko Vol. 23: Meal Fit For A King Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 When the Four-Beasts is revealed to be a single giant monster that craves human flesh, Toriko and the Four Kings rush to the center of the Human World to stop it from eating the helpless populace. But as soon as they get there, it unleashes a toxic rain. While Komatsu cooks up a life-saving cure, the Four Kings pool their appetite for the ultimate combination attack!
	Voice Over! Seiyu Academy Vol. 6 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 Hime Kino's dream is to one day do voice acting like her hero Sakura Aoyama from the Lovely ? Blazers anime, and getting accepted to the prestigious Holly Academy's voice actor department is the first step in the right direction! But Hime's gruff voice has earned her the scorn of teachers and students alike. Hime will not let that stand unchallenged. She&'ll show everyone that she is too a voice acting princess, whether they like it or not!!

August 12

We have a large selection this week. I'm hyped for Magi and Fairy Tail, being a long time fan of these franchises. Fairy Tail and Magi are both Shonen series with plenty of fan service. Fairy Tail is a bit light hearted than Magi in terms of content. If you are a Shonen fan and want a break from the HST (One Piece, Naruto, and Bleach), give these two series a try.

Please feel free to share your thoughts on what manga releases you're interested in this week. Thank you.

Notes:

Right Stuf has Project H Books and Digital Manga Publishing manga release this week. Comic book stores already had these adult manga releases on the week of July 9, 2014. For Amazon, the adult manga were released on the week of July 15, 2014. These are Blue Sheep Reverie, Disciplinarian, How To Get Dumped in Style, Kinokoinu Mushroom Pup Vol. 1, Nurse's Sweet Naked Truth, One is Enough, Splash to Love Vol. 2, and Teach Me a Lesson.
Les Miserables and Pride and Prejudice were release last week on Amazon, and they are listed on Right Stuf's release for this week.
Samurai Executioner Omnibus isn't available in comic book stores or Amazon this week. Amazon has it on August 26 while ANN and Right Stuf listed it for this week.

	Deadman Wonderland Volume 4 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 Ganta is recruited into the Scar Chain, an antiestablishment group planning a mass prison escape. After a brief meeting with Shiro, he stands at a crossroads, but Nagi persuades him to take part in the escape. However, a traitor has already leaked the plan to the Undertakers, a unit specially formed to stamp out the rebels.
	Fairy Tail Volume 41 Distributor: Kodansha Comics Suggested retail price: $10.99 Fairy Tail visits a town of giants frozen in magical ice that Gray can't dispel and Natsu can't melt! At its heart is supposedly an Eternal Flame... but how can a flame be frozen? And they're not the only ones after the town's secrets. Three treasure hunters block their path, while an old nemesis lurks in the shadows. To top it off, a magical trap makes all the Fairy Tail wizards' problems seem much bigger!
	Itsuwaribito Vol. 12 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 After a fierce battle, Utsuho and his friends manage to foil the plot of a group of assassins to take the life of a southern monarch. Will this earn them the Kokonotsu treasure they've been after? That question aside, they add some new members to their group and set out on another journey, finding that the village they visit on the way is a little strange...
	Loveless Vol. 12 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 When Seimei refuses to fight alongside Nisei against an enraged Moonless, it cuts the final tie in the web of manipulation that binds the dirtiest Fighter to his heartless Sacrifice. Meanwhile, while looking at his brother's photo album, Ritsuka discovers new information about his old self that doesn't match up.
	Magi Vol. 7 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 Alibaba, now in possession of a new power, plunges forward. But even after this fierce battle, fresh challenges await him.
	Monster Soul Vol. 2 Distributor: Kodansha Comics Suggested retail price: $10.99 A group of monsters known as Black Airs come across of pair humans who are looking to make some money hunting monsters with bounties on their heads. The Black Airs make quick work of the bounty hunters who fail to learn their lesson as they become overly ambitious and attempt to hunt the Black Airs. This proves to be a terrible mistake and we get to see just what makes the Black Airs so special: enormous power and even stronger friendship.

Wolfsmund Volume 5

Distributor: Vertical
Suggested retail price: $12.95

It is the 14th Century and as the Swiss begin to initiate their movements toward independence a fortress in the Alps known as the Wolfsmund continues to strike fear amongst the German and Italian communities that dare threaten Hapsburg (Austrian) rule!

Adult Releases

Crimson Spell Volume 5

Distributor: SuBLime
Suggested retail price: $12.99

On his quest to find the one behind the curse on his sword, Vald manages to sneak into the empire’s capital. His target is the greatest sorcerer in Zenedoura—Asterdol. However, in the midst of his search, Vald is captured by servants of the emperor. Fortunately for him, his capture brings an unexpected boon—the very sorcerer Vald is looking for comes straight to him! What will Vald do when he discovers that the man behind the curse looks exactly like Limris? And now that he’s facing his greatest danger yet, will Halvir come to Vald’s rescue?

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Weekly Manga Releases: July 22 and 29, 2014

By takashichea August 6, 2014 1 Comments

Welcome to this two week special! We have a huge selection. I'm familiar with some of these titles.

Black Butler - With the anime covering Noah Circus Ark, I haven't read the manga past volume 15 or so. I'll wait until the anime is over before continuing.
Blood Lad - I still have yet to read the manga after watching and enjoying the short anime series.
Is this a Zombie? - I loved the anime better than the manga since the anime features stuff that wasn't in the manga such as Seraphim's fight. The manga tends to show more panties and Haruna fan service than the anime.
Soul Eater and Soul Eater Not! - Love both anime series. Too bad that Soul Eater ended with an anime original ending. I'm hope for a reboot that is faithful to the manga. For Soul Eater Not!, I like the series, but my heart is with the original series due to different preferences (action over yuri undertones with slice of life)
Vinland Saga - Loved the manga series. Bought Volume 4 from Anime Expo already.
From the New World - Hate the manga series since it deviates from the anime. The manga has too much fan service which ruins the mood for me.
Finally, Watamote was a fun anime series to watch. I haven't tried the manga yet, but I'm interested in reading it. There was an announcement from Sentai Filmworks that the anime will be released in August 2014 (see Sentai Filmworks announced Watamote English Cast).

Please feel free to share your thoughts on what manga releases you're interested in this week. Thank you.

The covers are from Amazon and Right Stuf.

Sources

ANN's July 2014
Right Stuf (July 21 and 28)

Notes:

ANN does not list Infernal Devices Vol. 3, being a Manhwa series. Amazon, Right Stuf, and Comic Book stores have it this week.
Comic Book Stores list Monster Perfect Edition this week while anime and manga stores list its release last week, July 15. Same applies to Terra Formars Vol. 1 except the release date is for July 30.
Comic Book Store list Umineko's release date on July 30 while ANN, Amazon, Right Stuf has it on July 22.
Comic Book stores did not list Is This a Zombie Vol. 8 this week.
Vinland Saga Vol. 4 isn't available in comic stores this week. It's available on Amazon and Right Stuf.

July 22

	Battle Angel Alita Last Order Omnibus 4 Distributor: Kodansha Comics Suggested Retail Price: $19.99 MADNESS IN MULTIPLES In the depths of Melchizedek, Alita inches closer to recovering her dear friend’s brain but not before she is greeted by Mbadi and a rather duplicitous Desty Nova doppleganger. Meanwhile, Sechs and the other members of the Space Angels make their way through ZOTT, where Sechs comes to face a universally renowned Space Karate master in a show of technique, toughness and…thumbs?
	Black Butler Vol. 17 Distributor: Yen Press Suggested Retail Price: $13 Due in no small part to Sebastian, his uncommon butler, Earl Ciel Phantomhive finally succeeds in earning an audience with the enigmatic headmaster of Weston College following the outcome of the annual cricket tourney. As moon-pale petals bloom on the lapels of the students who have been granted a place at the Midnight Tea Party, the man who holds all authority at the school reveals himself to his guests. Will his appearance shed light on the fate of the students who have gone missing, or will the mysteries continue to pile up within these hallowed school grounds?
	Blood Lad Vol. 5 Distributor: Yen Press Suggested retail price: $20 Using Staz's powerful magic, Braz has successfully resurrected his father, Richarz, former king of the Demon World. Staz is furious that his brother has swindled him yet again-with Staz's blood and Braz's efforts going toward resurrection research, Staz and Fuyumi are back to square one on restoring her human body. But more pressing than Fuyumi's precarious state is that of the Demon World! When the dust settles, will a vampire or a werewolf be sitting on the throne?!
	The Infernal Devices Vol. 3: Clockwork Princess Distributor: Yen Press Suggested Retail Price: $12.99 The threat of Mortmain's Infernal Devices looms as the Shadowhunters race to work out a way to counteract the mechanical monsters. Meanwhile, plans for Tessa's marriage to Jem are underway, despite her fiance's failing health and the unresolved feelings between her and Will. When Tessa is captured, Will must leave his comrade behind to save the woman they both love. But with the final missing piece - Tessa herself - in Mortmain's possession, can anything stop his plot for revenge?
	No Matter How I Look at It, It's You Guys' Fault I"m Not Popular! Volume 4 Distributor: Yen Press Suggested retail price: $13 As the second term of high school winds down, Tomoko Kuroki's life continues to be full of awesome...nothing. But ever the optimist, she pins her hopes on the possibilities that winter break will bring. Unfortunately, there's a cold breeze blowing in more ways than one, and Tomoko's in for a disappointment. Is she doomed to spend her theoretically monumental first year as an HSG without any friends at all?!
	Omamori Himari Vol. 12 Distributor: Yen Press Suggested retail price: $13 Kuesu, who has returned to the fold as an immortal, arouses great joy and relief in Yuuto. But at the sight of her beloved Young Lord happy and in the arms of another, Himari succumbs to the dark beast that dwells within her and goes on a rampage. As a demon slayer whose duty it is to stop out-of-control ayakashi like Himari, what decision will Yuuto make?! Find out in the moving conclusion to Omamori Himari!
	Pandora Hearts Vol. 21 Distributor: Yen Press Suggested retail price: $12.99 What you have been granted is the "possibility" of survival. "I want you to be 'happy'..." With these parting words, one man sacrifices himself to save Oz and his companions, who have been chased into a corner. That sentiment succeeds in awakening Oz's heart, long held captive in the depths of his own soul, as though breaking all the chains that bind him... But when Oz learns of the heavy price of his revival, can his resolve withstand it?
	Soul Eater Vol. 21 Distributor: Yen Press Suggested retail price: $12.99 Crona's crimes have become too terrible to ignore, and the troubled youth is added to Shinigami's list. Hoping to reach her friend first, Maka extends her soul perception ability to engulf the entire planet. But the sweep delivers even more than she had bargained for: the location of the Kishin's hideout!
	Soul Eater Not! Vol. 3 Distributor: Yen Press Suggested retail price: $13 The attack on Eternal Feather is a cruel reminder that there is very real danger out there for the weapons and meisters of DWMA. Tsugumi is more determined than ever to develop her skills so that she can defend her friends in the future. But the road ahead is filled with challenges...and silliness!
	Umineko When They Cry Episode 4: Alliance of the Golden Witch Part 1 Distributor: Yen Press Suggested retail price: $21.99 Twelve years after her loved ones were brutally murdered at the annual family meeting, Ange Ushiromiya, now 18, is the sole heir of the Ushiromiya family. Ostracized by her peers, Ange seeks companionship in the pages of a diary left behind by her cousin, Maria. The diary offers a precious glimpse of Maria's world - her struggles at school, her friendship with stuffed lion Sakutarou, and her fascination with magic. It's as if the diary contains the last remnants of Ange's dear cousin... and an opportunity for Ange to discover the magic within herself...

July 29

Wandering Son Vol. 7 is released on July 31.

From the New World Volume 5

Distributor: Vertical
Suggested retail price: $10.95

There's a fox in the henhouse known as Kamisu 66-Acreage - a Fiend! Saki and her friends are now in a position where they cannot defend against their mass destruction. Those given their genetic composition and programming, even gods themselves run, but cannot hide.

My Little Monster Volume 3

Distributor: Kodansha Comics
Suggested retail price: $10.99

Haru confirms his love for Shizuku after a talk with the class rep, Chizuru Oshima (who also has feelings for Haru!). Meanwhile, confused and unsure, Shizuku decides to eliminate her feelings towards Haru in order to focus on her studies. Will Haru be able to change her mind? The school fesival brings chaos and rivalries as personalities clash!

Wandering Son Volume 7

Distributor: Fantagraphics Books
Suggested retail price: $24.99

Nitori-kun gets his first signs of acne. This may well be the end of the world. But when he turns to nationally famous model Anna-chan for help, events take an unexpected turn. Meanwhile, Nitori-kun and Chiba-san are scouted by the theater club after the success of their gender-bending play, The Rose of Versailles. But when Takatsuki-san congratulates Chiba-san, Chiba-san calls her a hypocrite. If Takatsuki-san wanted to join the theater club, she wouldn't congratulate Chiba-san — she'd be jealous. So says Chiba-san, but what does she know?

Vinland Saga Book 4

Distributor: Kodansha Comics
Suggested Retail Price: $19.99

Pushed to the brink of despair after his father attempted to have him killed, Prince Canute has experienced an awakening, transforming him from a timid, gentle boy into a clear-eyed man with the heart of a king. But a king needs a crown, and Canute now knows that nothing will be given to him. If he wants to rule, he will have to prove his ruthlessness with a plot that will change the fate of the kingdom and spatter the throne with blood!
Meanwhile, Thorfinn watches events unfold that could steal away the vengeance he has waited so long to achieve...

1 Comments

Weekly Manga Releases: July 8 & 15, 2014

By takashichea July 16, 2014 0 Comments

Welcome everyone! We had a large selection today. The weirdest covers this week has to be Case Closed for its cat on the cover and In Clothes Called Fat. I still have Sherlock Bones and UQ Holder on my to read list. The manga titles that came up and surprise me was D-Frag! Having watched the series with @DocHaus @Marshal Victory and the gang in winter of 2014, I'm curious to see how the manga was like. Fairy Tail had a Blu-Ray release this week, and now, it has a manga release, too. Missions of Love is a manga series my sister is currently reading. I haven't read it, but it doesn't seem to be my type of manga to read. Having seen Knights of Sidonia, I wanted to see another Sci-Fi and horror manga series. Terra Formars looks like it fit that desire. That's all I'm interested this week.

Please feel free to share your thoughts on what manga releases you're interested in this week. Thank you.

It's thanks to PikaHyper for uploading the English manga covers for Seven Deadly Sins Vol. 3 and UQ Holder Vol. 2. The rest except Sherlock Bones are from Amazon.com.

Sources

Notes:

Right Stuf had Moe Maniax for this week while Amazon and ANN listed it for last week.
Right Stuf has Terra Formars listed this week.
The Mission of Love, Lone Wolf Club, Fairy Tail, and What You Eat Yesterday manga covers come from Right Stuf while the rest come from Amazon.

Right Stuf has a few adult releases which I forgot to add, but I have to leave for a wedding dinner tonight. I'm working at the restaurant.

Fruitful Body
Coffin of Cerebrum
Work for Pleasure
Hey! Class President
Nyotai-ka! Vol. 3

Weekly Manga Releases

	Case Closed Volume 51 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 Plot: Digging for clams at the beach, the Junior Detective League digs up a mystery instead. Did a depressed beachgoer commit suicide, or was he murdered by one of his friends? Then, detective Richard Moore faces a challenge beyond his crime-fighting abilities: taking care of his ex-wife's new kitten! But the pesky furball leads him to the clues he needs to solve an impenetrable code. Could there be a new detective in town - one even cuter than Conan?
	Fullmetal Alchemist Omnibus 8 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $14.99 Plot: With the Day of Reckoning at hand, war breaks out in Central City. On one side, the homunculi and corrupt military; on the other, the Elric family, Ishvalan refugees, and a ragtag alliance of soldiers loyal to Major General Armstrong of Fort Briggs and Roy Mustang. While Hohenheim confronts the homunculi's "father," Mustang finally learns the truth about Hughes's murder. Will he be consumed by hatred and do the unthinkable? Collects volumes 22-24 in an omnibus format.
	In Clothes Called Fat Distributor: Vertical Suggested retail price: $13.95 Plot: Noko appears to be living a great life, she's got a good job and a loving boyfriend, but beneath a thin veneer is a young woman who is struggling with her self-image and self-confidence as she fights to keep her weight down. To Noko, being 5 pounds overweight means being miles away from happiness in her lovelife and in her work-place.
	Ranma ½ [2-in-1 Edition] Vol. 3 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $14.99 Chinese Amazon warrior Shampoo hasn't given up on Ranma yet - only instead of killing him, she now wants to marry him! There are just a few obstacles in the way of their future happiness, though, starting with a childhood phobia of Ranma's and followed by Shampoo's suitor, Mousse, martial arts master of hidden weapons. Can Ranma escape Shampoo's soap opera? Or a better question might be, does he even want to? Collects volumes 5-6 in an omnibus format.
	07-Ghost Volume 11 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 Plot: The paths of one evil god, two rival empires, three unlikely bishops and seven brave ghosts converge in the destiny of Teito Klein, a boy who vows to master a powerful artifact known as the Eye of Mikael in order to lay bare the secrets of the world’s and his own murky past. Bishop by day and something sinister by night, Frau has managed to hide his “real job” from Teito…until now. On the Hawkzile race that will take them to Hoburg Fortress, Frau loses control and pulls Teito ...
	Rin-ne Volume 15 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $9.99 Plot: Ever since a strange encounter when she was a child, Sakura Mamiya has had the power to see ghosts. Now in high school, she just wishes the ghosts would leave her alone! When her mysterious classmate Rinne Rokudo shows up, Sakura finds herself following him into the amazing world between life and death! The damashigami Renge has moved into the room next to Rinne’s in the old club building. Renge has been giving away lucky cell phone charm straps for free, and as a result, Rinne’s losing business! With everyone around Renge getting caught up in her affairs, Rinne has his work cut out for him!
	Sherlock Bones Volume 6 Distributor: Kodansha Comics Suggested retail price: $10.99 Plot: THIS JUST IN: MURDER IN LONDON TOWN With Takeru settling into his new job as a police officer, he and Sherdog take on their latest mystery in a case that involves the murder of a famous newscaster’s wife. But as Takeru tries to pin this grisly murder on the newscaster, he finds himself in conflict with Kento Munakata, the hot-shot, genius detective in charge of the case. Takeru and Sherdog will do all they can to solve this case, even if it means going above the detective’s head to get things done, but will Takeru’s rash actions hurt or help him in the end?
	The Hentai Prince and the Stony Cat Volume 2 Distributor: Digital Manga Publishing Suggested retail price: $12.95 Plot: Yoto finally has a date of his dreams with Azusa! But it's a date like no other! This is their first date and they are already talking about marriage and family...?!
	The Seven Deadly Sins Vol. 3 - "The Sin of Greed" Distributor: Kodansha Comics Suggested retail price: $10.99 Plot: When they were accused of trying to overthrow the monarchy, the feared warriors the Seven Deadly Sins were sent into exile. Princess Elizabeth discovers the truth - the Sins were framed by the king's guard, the Holy Knights - too late to prevent them from assassinating her father and seizing the throne! Now the princess is on the run, seeking the Sins to help her reclaim the kingdom. But the first Sin she meets, Meliodas, is a little innkeeper with a talking pig. He doesn't even have a real sword! Have the legends of the Sins' strength been exaggerated...?
	UQ Holder Volume 2 Distributor: Kodansha Comics Suggested retail price: $10.99 Plot: Negi Springfield, the boy wizard of the hit manga Negima!, fought and won many battles. Now it is decades later and Negi's grandson(!), a little boy name Touta, dreams of leaving his quiet village and heading to the City. But first he must defeat his teacher... the immortal vampire, Evangeline!

Weekly Manga Releases

	D-Frag! Volume 1 Distributor: Seven Seas Entertainment Suggested retail price: $12.99 Kazama Kenji thinks he's a delinquent. He's got the look, the style, and the attitude to match; he even has a second-rate entourage of sorts. Deep down, however, Kazama is a good-hearted kid who finds himself and his loyal gang in over their heads when they stumble upon the Game Creation Club. The club's formidable members, Chitose, Sakura, Minami and Roka, are four girls who he might actually be attracted to if they weren't so freaking weird. The girls claim to have otherworldly powers which they use to defeat Kazama's gang and force him to join their offbeat club. Can Kazama resist the girls' bizarre charms and return to some semblance of a normal, everyday life... or is it "game over" for our hapless hero?
	Devils and Realist Volume 2 Distributor: Seven Seas Entertainment Suggested retail price: $12.99 Devils and Realist is an all-new supernatural manga series that pits a young, suave nobleman against Hell’s princely demons. William Twining has it all—a sharp intelligence, dashing good looks, and a noble station in life. There’s only one problem: he’s broke. With no way to finance his prestigious education, William decides to search through his uncle’s mansion for something of value to sell. But William’s logical worldview is about to take a hit, when he comes across a mystical seal which he unintentionally uses to summon a demon. The demon’s name is Dantalion, a Grand Duke of Hell, who informs the young nobleman of his destiny—that he is the new “Elector” whose sole responsibility is to appoint the next ruler of Hell in place of Lucifer. Such news might drive a lesser man mad, but not William Twining. He’s a realist whose views don’t allow for the existence of demons, even when scores of demonic candidates begin to knock down his door and seek his favor. None of this can possibly be real—can it?—and besides, he’s got bills to pay.
	Fairy Tail Volume 40 Distributor: Kodansha Comics Suggested retail price: $10.99 Summary is not available.
	Missions of Love Volume 8 Distributor: Kodansha Comics Suggested retail price: $10.99 Shigure's plan to get close to Yukina by helping her overcome her weakness gets off to a good start, but runs into trouble when Yukina meets into an old acquaintance–the preschool teacher who traumatized her in the first place. Can Shigure keep Yukina's old wounds from reopening?
	Monster: The Perfect Edition Volume 1 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested retail price: $19.99 Johan is a cold and calculating killer with a mysterious past, and brilliant Dr. Kenzo Tenma is the only one who can stop him! Conspiracy and serial murder open the door to a compelling, intricately woven plot in this masterwork of suspense. Everyone faces uncertainty at some point in their lives. Even a brilliant surgeon like Kenzo Tenma is no exception. But there’s no way he could have known that his decision to stop chasing professional success and instead concentrate on his oath to save peoples’ lives would result in the birth of an abomination. The questions of good and evil now take on a terrifyingly real dimension. Years later, in Germany during the tumultuous post-reunification period, middle-aged childless couples are being killed one after another. The serial killer’s identity is known. The reasons why he kills are not. Dr. Tenma sets out on a journey to find the killer’s twin sister, who may hold some clues to solving the enigma of the “Monster.”
	What Did You Eat Yesterday Volume 3 Distributor: Vertical Suggested retail price: $12.95 No summary available.
	World War Blue Volume 6 Distributor: Seven Seas Entertainment Suggested retail price: $12.99 World War Blue is an all-new fantasy manga series inspired by the “console wars,” the historic struggle for market share between manufacturers in the video game industry. In World War Blue, this conflict is represented by satirical versions of famous video game characters, who fight each other in a sprawling RPG-like world. In the continent of Consume, an endless war rages between bitter rivals: the Segua Kingdom vs. the Ninteldo Empire. Upon his dinosaur steed, the stern Emperor Marcus has led the Ninteldo Empire to near-victory. Now, with the majority of Consume under its control, Ninteldo has Segua up against the ropes. Enter a fleet-footed lad named Gear, who seeks vengeance against Ninteldo for his brother’s death. After joining Segua’s Army, Gear is enlisted in the Special Forces, due to his amazing speed. Yet the inexperienced, hasty youth may not be ready for the realities of war—or he might just become the Segua Empire’s last and greatest hope.
	Terra Formars Vol. 1 Distributor: Viz Media Suggested Retail Price: $12.99 In the late 26th century, overpopulation on Earth is reaching the breaking point, and humanity must find new frontiers. The terraforming of Mars has taken centuries, but is now complete. The colonization of Mars by humanity is an epoch-making event, but an unintended side effect of the terraforming process unleashes a horror no one could ever have imagined... After humanity's first manned mission to the Red Planet was lost, a second expedition arrives. The explorers prepare to exterminate the cockroaches that were used to transform the Martian environment. They are shocked to discover that the insects have mutated into giant, aggressive humanoids with one overriding goal: exterminate the humans! But this crew of explorers has each undergone the "Bugs Procedure," terrifying experimental surgery designed to make them more than human...

Distributor: Dark Horse Comics
Suggested retail price: $19.99

Separated from his son while battling Yagyu assassins, Itto Ogami’s mission of retribution heats to a boil as he cuts through any obstacle to find his missing child. But little Daigoro, though a mere toddler, is the son of the most formidable and resourcefull samurai in the land. Though alone in a cruel world, Daigoro has the heart of a warrior!
Collects two stories from volume 10 and volumes 11-12 in an omnibus format.

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takashichea

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By takashichea July 16, 2015 0 Comments

Quick Copy and Paste

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Things I Learn from Batman 75 Panel

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August 5

Temporary Quick Picks Manga

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Weekly Manga Releases