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Saturday, July 31, 2010

A Manga About Making Manga

Bakuman

From the Creators of Death Note. Is becoming a successful manga artist an achievable dream or just one big gamble? Average student Moritaka Mashiro enjoys drawing for fun. When his classmate and aspiring writer Akito Takagi discovers his talent, he begs Moritaka to team up with him as a manga-creating duo. But what exactly does it take to make it in the manga-publishing world? Moritaka is hesitant to seriously consider Akito's proposal because he knows how difficult reaching the professional level can be. Still, encouragement from persistent Akito and motivation from his crush push Moritaka to test his limits!

Bakuman is equally inspirational and entertaining.  One major strength of this series is its ability to pull you in to the world of mangaka (manga creators).  As Mashiro and Takagi dive in to the creative process and approach each hurdle to stardom, you feel the angst and anticipation along with them.  Ohba and Obata are an unbelievable team. If for no other reason, you should flip through the book to sneak a peek at Obata's artwork. Through the course of the series, he must show a myriad of art styles (as different mangaka in the series).  Being at his level in any one of these styles would garner fame and admiration, but Obata's level of proficiency in all areas shines through impressively. But you don't have to take my word for it...

Look for it at Laughing Ogre Comics on Wednesday, August 4th!

- Ryan

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