6. I Don't Know How to Give Birth by Ayami Kazama (Yen Press)
A humorous and heartfelt autobiographical comic essay of a manga artist new to the challenges of motherhood! Follow her journey as she learns the ins and outs of pregnancy and childbirth-and the impossibility of finding comfy maternity underwear! (Yen Press)
“I Don't Know How To Give Birth” is a heartwarming and a wonderfully framed autobiographical work, one which will hold appeal to a wide range of fans regardless of taste or experiences. Additionally, the mix of truthful accounts, flights of fancy, and playfulness make for a well rounded foray into comedy. Collected in a single volume and well presented through Yen Press, “I Don't Know how to Give Birth” would be a welcome addition to any personal library.
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7. Sazan and the Comet Girl by Yuriko Akase (Seven Seas)
Sazan, a young man from Earth, works construction on other planets and has seen his share of galactic oddities. But when he meets Mina, a vivacious redhead who zooms into his life on a space scooter, he knows he's run into someone special. Almost as suddenly as she arrived, Mina races out of Sazan's life, yet Sazan is determined to find her again…no matter how far he must chase her across the galaxy. (Seven Seas Entertainment)
This wonderfully bright omnibus from Seven Seas captures the excitement of a bygone era of manga, giving it a strong sense of nostalgia. The use of watercolors and an engaging narrative that draws you in from the beginning, makes this release one of the most joyous of the year. It is hard not to picture manga fans being nothing but content when reading through “Sazan and the Comet Girl”.
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8. Dementia 21 (Vol. 2) by Shintaro Kago (Fantagraphics)
In Vol. 2, Yukie boldly decides to join the resistance — against a squadron of maniacal diapers hell-bent on taking over the world! A shorthanded hospital hires zombies to care for its patients, but … what exactly do they eat? When an old man creates a machine that causes out-of-body experiences, what could possibly go wrong? And why are children getting rocket launchers in their stockings? Three words: Santa has dementia! (Fantagraphics)
The follow up to the first volume of Dementia 21 is just as equally absurd and well presented. Shintaro Kago wonderfully weaves absurdity dark humor and the grotesque for a one of a kind experience. Additionally, both volumes can be purchased together in a stylish box set that makes it stand out on the manga shelf.
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9. King of Eden by Takashi Nagasaki & Ignito (Yen Press)
Entire villages are going up in flames across the globe, with the same man left standing at the scene every time. Meanwhile, rumors abound of a highly contagious virus where those infected fly into a blind rage, killing anything and everything that crosses their path. As the death toll rises, agencies from nations around the world get together, looking for answers-How are these incidents connected? Who is that man? And most importantly…can the massacres be stopped before humanity is doomed? (Yen Press)
“King of Eden”, while not re-inventing the genre, contains various attributes that still makes the release feel unique among the plethora of zombie titles. Additionally, the focus, and successful build-up of its characters makes for an immersive and inviting experience. The series may fall flat for those who prefer the focus to be entirely on violence and horror, but with releases like that being a dime-a-dozen, “King of Eden” is a refreshing take within a saturated market.
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10. Blood on the Tracks by Shuzo Oshimi (Vertical)
Ordinary middle school student Seiichi Osabe receives love and care from his mother Seiko. Until one summer an incident changes the family dynamic forever. This is a story of a mother's love that has gone too far…. (Vertical)
Shuzo Oshimi's work has established him as a master of psychological horror with titles such as “Happiness” and “Flowers of Evil” showcasing skill in blending drama and horror. Where “Blood On the Tracks” succeeds over other titles is its ability to take a concept which should offer comfort (motherhood), and transform it into something utterly disturbing. Additionally, Oshimi's art skill in expressions allows the calm veil of motherhood to turn into one of disgust in a single instance. All these elements coming to instill a deep sense of unease and dread in the reader. *This title was included in our list of 15 Great Modern Horror Manga titles.
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