Read Right to Left (Simply Gee)

This month we're joined by two very special guests: Matt from Star Fruit Books, and Emuh from Glacier Bay Books, as we spotlight the small press publishers in the manga community. We talk about their exciting releases, under-represented indie artists, and the nitty-gritty realities of publishing!

Find Star Fruit Books on their website and Twitter

Find Glacier Bay Books on their website and Twitter

Follow Ray on her channel Whimsical Pictures and Twitter

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on my Youtube Channel and Twitter

Ray and Gee return in this very special spotlight bonus episode to talk about their top HATED series for the year! Two surprising series have turned our hosts into haters in this relaxed bonus episode - so strap in and enjoy!

Follow Ray on her channel ⁠⁠Whimsical Pictures⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on my ⁠⁠YouTube Channel⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠Twitter⁠

November is the month of giving thanks and eating food (and unfortunate  rewriting of Native American history), so for this episode we're doing  another creator spotlight: Natsume Ono!! How will her European aesthetic and love of baked goods translate on the page? And how many of her  titles have YOU read in English?  

In this podcast we talk about:
Ristorante Paradiso
Gente
La Quinta Camera
House of Five Leaves
Not Simple
ACCA: 13-Territory Inspection Dept.

Follow Ray on her channel Whimsical Pictures and Twitter

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on Twitter

Human stories bridge the gap between creator and reader, as we see a peek into the lives of strangers. For some, this is a intimate look at some of life's worst struggles, and for others it's the hopeful or joyful celebration of life. Either way, the stories in memoir remind us as readers of the diversity of life and experiences, and help us discover and learn about things we've never lived -- or find support and community in the things we have. Join Gee and Ray this month as we dive deep into the real-life stories of these manga, and the people who create them.

Follow Ray on her channel Whimsical Pictures and Twitter

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on my Youtube Channel and Twitter

Once again this December, Ray and Gee spotlight their favourite new  series for the year! From sweet shojo love stories to action-packed  sci-fi horror, and a whole breadth of honourable mentions, come listen  to our picks for the year!!

In this episode we talk about:

• A White Rose in Bloom, Asumiko Nakamura
• Blue Box, Kouji Miura
• Boy Meets Maria, Peyo
• Boys Run the Riot, Keito Gaku
• Captivated, By You, Yama Wayama
• Dai Dark, Q Hayashida
• Dandadan, Yukinobu Tatsu
• Double, Ayako Noda
• Doughnuts Under a Crescent Moon, Shio Usui
• Fangs, Billy Balibally
• Frieren: Beyond Journey's End, Story by Kanehito Yamada, Art by Tsukasa Abe
• I Swear I Won't Bother You Again, Story by Reina Soratani, Art by Haru Harukawa
• I Think My Son is Gay, Okura
• Kageki Shojo, Kumiko Saiki
• Lil' Leo, Moto Hagio
• Look Back, Tatsuki Fujimoto
• MADK, Ryo Suzuri
• My Love Mix-Up, Story by Wataru Hinekure, Art by Aruko
• Skip & Loafer, Misaki Takamatsu
• The Birds of Shangri-la, Ranmaru Zariya
• The Cat Proposed, Dento Hayane
• The King's Beast, Rei Toma
• The Vampire and His Pleasant Companions, Marimo Ragawa
• Tono Monogatari, Shigeru Mizuki

Follow Ray on her channel Whimsical Pictures and Twitter

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on my Youtube Channel and Twitter

***

TIMESTAMPS:  

(0:00) Introduction  

(1:50) Honorable Mentions  

(49:28) Gee's #5 

(56:31) Ray's #5  

(1:08:03) Question: Series with Stand-Out Art  

(1:10:46) Gee's #4 

(1:27:37) Ray's #4  

(1:34:51) Question: Series with Cross-Over Appeal in Other Reader Spaces  

(1:40:00) Ray's #3 

(1:47:35) Gee's #3  

(1:58:52) Question: Authors We'd Like to See More of 

(2:01:58) Question: Series That Surprised Us  

(2:05:06) Ray's #2 

(2:18:02) Gee's #2  

(2:21:55) Question: Trends in Manga This Year 

(2:24:31) Viewer Top 5 Lists  

(2:27:36) Gee's #1 

(2:36:51) Ray's #1  

(2:56:15) Wrap-Up and Next Month's Topic  

Happy New Year, everyone!

This month is a time for love, so our topic reflects that with romance manga!! We were also super excited to have two very special guests and relative experts on the topic: MommaLuvsManga and ShaeGeeksOut!! Listen to all the ups and downs of fictional romances (and the manga that feature them) in this special Valentine's Day podcast!! Also, keep an eye out for part two❤  

Follow our guests on their social media!! 

Aisha at MommaLuvsManga on Youtube, Twitter & Instagram

Shae at ShaeGeeksOut on Youtube, Twitter & Instagram

Follow Ray on her channel Whimsical Pictures and Twitter

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on Twitter

This month we look at one of Ray and Gee's favourite ongoing manga, Yona of the Dawn! Following the adventures of a young princess, her bodyguard and the four dragon warriors fated to help her, she is on a journey of growth and self-actualisation after she's ousted from the throne by her cousin. We jump in discussing both the serious moments and shenanigans that ensue, and hopefully share our love of this series with you all!

Follow Ray on her channel Whimsical Pictures and Twitter

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on Twitter

This month, join us as we explore the many genres and styles of music manga! From rock and roll, to smooth jazz, to concert piano, music has been captured and shared in manga for decades--to varying degrees of popularity and success. How exactly is an audial art captured in illustration? How important is familiarity in genre to a series' success? Which music series are our favs?

Follow Ray on her channel Whimsical Pictures and Twitter

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on my Youtube Channel and Twitter

It's October yet again, so this month Ray and I will be covering the weird and wonderful world of horror manga!! From the popular to the niche, we talk about how much horror manga available in English, the history of the manga genre in Japan and some of the most influential titles. From the terrifying classic The Drifting Classroom, to the ever-expanding Higurashi: When They Cry franchise, be sure to give some of these spooky books a try 🎃

Commission your very own personal Shintaro Kago portrait here 

In this episode we talk about:

• The Drifting Classroom, Kazuo Umezz
• Cat-Eyed Boy, Kazuo Umezz
• The Bride of Deimos, Etsuko Ikeda and Yuuho Ashibe
• Helter Skelter, Kyoko Okazaki
• Kasane, Daruma Matsuura
• PTSD Radio, Masaaki Nakayama
• Phantom Tales of the Night, Matsuri
• Higurashi: When They Cry/Umineko: When They Cry, Ryukishi07 and various artists
• Hell's Paradise: Jigokuraku, Yuji Kaku
• Ghost Hunt, Shiho Inada (original novels by Fuyumi Ono)
• Shiki (anime, original novels by Fuyumi Ono)
• The Twelve Kingdoms, Fuyumi Ono (novels)
• Happiness, Shuzo Oshimi
• Mushishi, Yuki Urushibara
• Lychee Light Club, Usamaru Furuya
• Blood on the Tracks, Shuzo Oshimi
• The Strange Tale of Panorama Island, Suehiro Maruo
• Dorohedoro, Q Hayashida
• Tokyo Ghoul, Sui Ishida
• Yuureitou, Tarou Nogizaka
• Total Eclipse of the Eternal Heart, Syundei
• Sankarea: Undying Love, Mitsuru Hattori
• Gegege no Kitaro, Shigeru Mizuki
• Devilman, Go Nagai
• Parasyte, Hitoshi Iwaaki
• Land of the Lustrous, Haruko Ichikawa

Follow Ray on her channel Whimsical Pictures and Twitter

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on Twitter

**TIMESTAMPS**

(0:00) Introduction

(6:51) The Drifting Classroom, Kazuo Umezz

(25:30) Cat-Eyed Boy, Kazuo Umezz

(30:31) The Bride of Deimos, Etsuko Ikeda and Yuuho Ashibe

(40:18) Helter Skelter, Kyoko Okazaki

(50:08) Kasane, Daruma Matsuura

(54:53) PTSD Radio, Masaaki Nakayama

(59:23) Phantom Tales of the Night, Matsuri

(1:09:08) Higurashi: When They Cry/Umineko: When They Cry, Ryukishi07 and various artists

(1:14:23) Question Time!

April is for fools, so be sure to join Gee and Ray for this episode as we talk about the huge range of comedy manga! From gag series to 4-panel, sitcoms and the bizarre, humor can come in all types---but some is definitely more effective than others! Are poop jokes the peak of comedy, or overly crass? Just how many times can the same joke be told before it's dead?? We talk about series new and old, popular and forgotten, whilst answering all your questions!!

Follow Ray on her channel Whimsical Pictures and Twitter

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on Twitter

Welcome to another Season of Romance with Gee and Ray!! This month we spotlight the opposites-attract love story of Everyone's Getting Married. Hear our thoughts as we revisit this josei, which entered the English market at the top of its game.

Follow Ray on her channel ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Whimsical Pictures⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on my ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter

Phosphophyllite is a little ditzy and direct, and wants nothing more to fight against the violent Lunarians who come to Earth to capture them and their friends. Unfortunately, Phos isn't that tough, literally, and can shatter under a strong breeze if not careful. So, under the direction of ever-calm Kongo-sensei, Phos starts writing a natural history of the land, which quickly steers them off course into learning the vast secrets of life for the Lustrous, and the truth behind the never-ending feud with the Lunarians. What happens when rocks have feelings? What truly makes us human? Welcome to this sensational sci-fi seinen series, where Haruko Ichikawa asks the existential, Land of the Lustrous. 

Joining us this episode is our wonderful guest Tales, to help us start the new year the best we can!!

Follow Ray on her channel Whimsical Pictures and Twitter

This month's topic is Yuri manga, and we dive into the history surrounding everyone's favourite girls-kissing-girls manga. We also spotlight a few of our favs, as well as some upcoming new releases!

Follow Ray on her channel Whimsical Pictures and Twitter

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on Twitter

Welcome to part two of this love extravaganza!! This month is a time for love, so our topic reflects that with romance manga!! We were also super excited to have two very special guests and relative experts on the topic: MommaLuvsManga and ShaeGeeksOut!! Listen to all the ups and downs of fictional romances (and the manga that feature them) in this special Valentine's Day podcast!!❤

Follow our guests on their social media!!
Aisha at MommaLuvsManga on Youtube, Twitter & Instagram
Shae at ShaeGeeksOut on Youtube, Twitter & Instagram

Follow Ray on her channel Whimsical Pictures and Twitter

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on Twitter

March is the 2 Year Anniversary for manga publishing platform, Manga Plaza! This month Gee and Ray dive into the unexplored oceans of the app, in search for hidden treasures — will we find any? Listen to find out!

Follow Ray on her channel ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Whimsical Pictures⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on my ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter

This Halloween Season, join Gee and Ray as they dive into (some) of the works from horror titan, Junji Ito! From the spiralling madness of Uzumaki, to the unending space of Remina, to the smelly chase of Gyo, Junji Ito has become the representative of horror manga in the English-speaking market -- but how effective are the many, many series we have available when being read by non-fans? Is there a reason why Ito has become synonymous with creepy? Hear all our thoughts in this episode!

Follow Ray on her channel Whimsical Pictures and Twitter

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on my YouTube Channel and Twitter

This month, Read Right to Left celebrates its fourth birthday by dissecting a favourite of the hosts, The Heart of Thomas. Join Gee and Ray as we unpack this seminal work of manga, which helped shape the comic medium itself and establish the flourishing BL genre. Hear our thoughts on the characters and their interwoven relationships, and how trauma shapes each of them. Discover why this manga has become a classic, and why it continues to be loved so deeply!

Follow Ray on her channel ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Whimsical Pictures⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on my ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter

This month, join Gee and Ray as they spotlight CLAMP, the group of mangaka responsible for some of the most popular and influential series of the 90s and 2000s -- from Cardcaptor Sakura, Chobits, xxxHOLIC, Magical Knight Rayearth and Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicle. With decade(s) of smash-hit sensations, this group has tackled every demographic and a variety of genres; becoming some of the most well-known, yet divisive manga creators of the era. Whether a new reader, or a nostalgic fan, there's something for everyone here!

Follow Ray on her channel ⁠Whimsical Pictures⁠ and ⁠Twitter⁠

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on my ⁠Youtube Channel⁠ and ⁠Twitter

This month, join Gee and Ray as they explore the smash-hit, Eisner-winning tale of young witches, Witch Hat Atelier! When Coco accidentally discovers the truth behind magic, she is swept away to a magical new life of witchcraft and wonder, as she searches for a way to correct the horrible mistake she made turning her mother to stone. Come with us as Coco and her friends discover the wonders of art and imagination under the watchful tutelage of her mentor!

Follow Ray on her channel ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Whimsical Pictures⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on my ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter

We conclude this month's topic of BL with all of our recommendations for those who want to read some of our favorites, or to give the genre a try!  

I hope you all enjoy, and stay tuned for more!😉  

Follow Ray on her channel Whimsical Pictures and Twitter

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on Twitter

This month we've put another of our favourite creators in the spotlight: Taiyo Matsumoto! From the critically-acclaimed sports drama Ping Pong, to the quirky exploration of childhood fears and friendships in Go Go Monster, this mangaka's catalogue is as varied as it is perfected! So whether you're a long-time fan, or have never read Matsumoto's work, join us this month as we praise (and criticise!)

Follow Ray on her channel Whimsical Pictures and Twitter

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on my Youtube Channel and Twitter

This month, join Gee and Ray for the postponed launch of Gee's (Light) Novel Corner as we talk about the smash-hit sensation danmei, Heaven Official's Blessing. As Ray experiences her very first danmei series, we dive into this fast-growing medium and English market, as well as the love story between god and ghost king specific to this tale. Will these star-crossed lovers make it work, and will Chinese novels continue to make their mark for English readers despite the rough start? Hear our thoughts this episode!

Follow Ray on her channel ⁠⁠⁠Whimsical Pictures⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on my ⁠⁠⁠Youtube Channel⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠Twitter

It's the end of the year, so that means Ray and I can spotlight some of our favorite new series from the past year!! From an exciting amount of romance manga, to the creepy horror of inhuman monsters, how many of our standout series did you read this year?

In this podcast we talk about:

• Given
• My Dress-up Darling
• My Androgynous Boyfriend
• Hell's Paradise: Jigokuraku
• SpyxFamily
• Heterogenia Linguistico
• Sweat and Soap
• Ping Pong
• Not Your Idol
• The Rose of Versailles
  

Follow Ray on her channel Whimsical Pictures and Twitter

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on Twitter

**TIMESTAMPS**

(0:00) Introduction

(4:53) @storiedshelves questions (unexpected favorites and licenses we're hoping for)

(22:29) Ray's No. 5

(28:25) Gee's No. 5

(37:02) @365daysof801 question (comfort reads)

(47:17) Gee's No. 4

(54:20) Ray's No. 4

(1:09:44) @dynamicdylan26 question (Yes, No, or Maybe and BL light novels) and top 5 of 2020

(1:13:07) Ray's No. 3

(1:28:15) Gee's No. 3

(1:35:58) @brainchild129 question (trends we'd like to die in the new year, and trends we'd like to see continue)

(1:43:25) Gee's No. 2

(1:53:50) Ray's No. 2

(2:08:31) @mommaluvsmanga top 5 of 2020

(2:10:59) @uchuushelf question (titles we're most excited for in 2021)

(2:15:07) Gee's No. 1

(2:28:45) Ray's No. 1

February is here, and Ray and I are talking about the josei demographic! We're answering your questions about manga for women, and the many amazing series we've gotten in English over the years. From Princess Jellyfish to Haru's Curse, come discover your favourite new series about women being women (and everything that entails!!)

Series mentioned in this episode: Princess Jellyfish, Tokyo Tarareba Girls, Blank Canvas: My So-Called Artist's Journey, Haru's Curse, My Broken Mariko, Ooku, My Darling Daughters, pink, Helter Skelter: Fashion Unforward, In Clothes Called Fat, Sakuran, Buffalo 5 Girls, Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen, Everybody's Getting Married, Between the Sheets, Descending Stories, Phantom Tales of the Night, Chihayafuru, Maiden Railways, Perfect World & Sweat and Soap

Follow Ray on her channel Whimsical Pictures and Twitter

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on Twitter

@TalesofColor's question: - The Story of Saiunkoku - Princess Jellyfish, Akiko Higashimura - Maiden Railways, Asumiko Nakamura - All My Darling Daughters, Fumi Yoshinaga - Haru's Curse, Asuka Konishi - Perfect World, Rie Aruga

@lesbopymihys: Q1: - Kageki Shojo! The Curtain Rises, Kumiko Saiki Q2: - Kids on the Slope (Sakamichi no Apollon), Yuki Kodama - Chihayafuru, Yuki Suetsugu - A Savage God Reigns (Zankoku na Kami ga Shihaisuru), Moto Hagio - The Poe Clan: Dreams of Spring, Unicorn, and The Secret Garden (Poe no Ichizoku: Haru no Yume, Unicorn, Himitsu no Hanazono), Moto Hagio - Bou ga Ippon, Fumiko Takano

@365daysof801: Q1: - The Cornered Mouse Dreams of Cheese/The Carp on the Chopping Block Jumps Twice, Setona Mizushiro - Fumi Yoshinaga (Ooku, Antique Bakery, etc) - Natsume Ono (ACCA 13, Ristorante Paradiso, etc) - Haruko Kumota (Descending Stories: Rakugo Shinju, Itoshi no Nekokke, etc) - JUNKO (Kiss Him, Not Me, Mr. Mini-Mart, etc)

Q2: - Helter Skelter and Pink, Kyoko Okazaki - In Clothes Called Fat, Moyoco Anno - All My Darling Daughters, Fumi Yoshinaga - Sakuran, Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen, Buffalo 5 Girls, Moyoco Anno - NANA, Paradise Kiss, Ai Yazawa - A, A', Otherworld Barbara, Moto Hagio - Ooku: The Inner Chambers, Fumi Yoshinaga  

@rinreadsmanga's question: - My Androgynous Boyfriend, Tamekou - A Sign of Affection, suu Morishita - Sweat and Soap, Kintetsu Yamada 

@LumRanmaYasha: Q1: - Akiko Higashimura (Princess Jellyfish, Tokyo Tarareba Girls, Blank Canvas) - Haruko Kumota (Descending Stories: Rakugo Shinjuu, Itoshi no Nekokke) - Moyoco Anno (Sakuran, In Clothes Called Fat, etc) - Kyoko Okazaki (Helter Skelter, Pink) Q2: - Phantom Tales of the Night, Matsuri - My Broken Mariko, Waka Hirako - With the Light: Raising an Autistic Child, Keiko Tobe - Everyone's Getting Married, Izumi Miyazono - An Incurable Case of Love, Maki Enjoji - Kaze Hikaru, Taeko Watanabe

@TakutoAnimeCafe: Q1: - Princess Jellyfish - All My Darling Daughters - Maiden Railways - Sakuran - In Clothes Called Fat - Haru's Curse - Paradise Kiss Q2: - Ooku - Descending Stories  

@cursed_kona question: - My Lesbian Experience with Loneliness, My Solo Exchange Diary, Nagata Kabi - Haru's Curse - Helter Skelter - Otherworld Barbara - My Broken Mariko - Erica Sakurazawa manga (esp. Between the Sheets)

@storiedshelves: Q1: - Haruko Kumota - Akiko Higashimura - Moyoco Anno (I meant her when I mentioned a calendar too lol whoops) - Mari Okazaki (Suppli) - Matsuri (Phantom Tales of the Night) - Moto Hagio (A Savage God Reigns) - Chica Umino (Honey and Clover, March Comes In Like a Lion which just got licensed thank you Denpa) - Fumi Yoshinaga Q2: - Chihayafuru - Perfect World - Everyone's Getting Married

Welcome to another Spooky Season with Gee and Ray!! This month we spotlight the action-packed Hell's Paradise: Jigokuraku. As our motley crew fight for their lives on an island both weird and incoprehensible, will they make it out alive?

Follow Ray on her channel ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Whimsical Pictures⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on my ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter

This month Ray and I will be talking about the wonderful mangaka Yuhki  Kamatani, and their titles; both those available in English, and  Japanese only. Whether its the fast-paced action of Nabari no Ou, the  captivating care of growing up in Shonen Note, or the brilliantly nuanced and inclusive LGBT series Our Dreams at Dusk, Kamatani's works have capture people's attention in Japan and overseas for longer than  many may realise! Let us know your thoughts on this brilliant creator!!

Read Anime Feminist's article on Yuhki Kamatani

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And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on Twitter

This month we're spotlighting the recently-completed drama-thriller-romance Devils' Line! We talk about our favorite characters, the effectiveness of the themes, and why YOU should read it.

CW: pedophilia, rape/sexual assault, gore, child grooming, human experimentation, light BDSM, light body horror, emotional abuse, manipulation, domestic terrorism

Follow Ray on her channel Whimsical Pictures and Twitter

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on Twitter

Welcome to another Spooky Season with Gee and Ray!! This month we spend time with the creatures of the night -- the royalty of Halloween itself, Vampires! Whether it's psychological horror with a twist, fantasy-filled romance, or the most mundane of everyday life for a (supernatural) creature, vampires dominate the manga scene. Join us, as we bite down on the details and explore all there is in manga featuring vampires.

Follow Ray on her channel ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Whimsical Pictures⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on my ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter

Welcome to the very first episode of Read Right-to-Left, a manga podcast from two fans hoping to discuss, celebrate and criticize the many, many things we read in our favorite hobby! (With a little fangirling thrown in the mix, too!!)  I hope you all enjoy, and stay tuned for more!😉  

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And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on Twitter

Join Gee and Ray as we explore the cynical character lives of Moyoco Anno! From a harrowing spiral of disordered eating, to the many lives of history's sex workers, Anno's work is fierce with it's criticism -- but does it always hit the mark?

Follow RRtL on BlueSky!Follow Ray on her channel ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Whimsical Pictures⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BlueSky⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on my ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BlueSky

Whilst the entire world stays inside this month, we're talking about the amazing women of the Year 24 Group!! From Hagio to Aoike, we talk about the incredible impact these mangaka have had on the manga industry  and a few of their titles available in English & in Japanese. Let us know if you're reading any of these titles.

In this podcast we talk about:

• The Rose of Versailles, Riyoko Ikeda
• Claudine, Riyoko Ikeda (and a little more gushing about TRoV…..)
• From Eroica with Love, Yasuko Aoike
• Toward the Terra, Keiko Takemiya (and Andromeda Stories, a lil bit)
• Otherworld Barbara, Moto Hagio
• They Were Eleven, Moto Hagio
• A, A’, Moto Hagio
• A Drunken Dream and Other Stories, Moto Hagio
• The Heart of Thomas, Moto Hagio (we didn’t get into this one that much! ;o; )
• The Poe Clan, Moto Hagio

Follow Ray on her channel Whimsical Pictures and Twitter

And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on Twitter

**TIMESTAMPS**

(0:00) Introduction

(2:03) Who are the Year 24 Group?

(20:18) BOOK DISCUSSION! Year 24 titles available in English:

(20:45) The Rose of Versailles, Riyoko Ikeda

(35:20) Claudine, Riyoko Ikeda (and a little more gushing about TRoV…..)

(45:18) From Eroica with Love, Yasuko Aoike

(52:12) Toward the Terra, Keiko Takemiya (and Andromeda Stories, a lil bit)

(1:08:19) Moto Hagio! A quick overview of her titles in English.

(1:15:53) Otherworld Barbara, Moto Hagio

(1:21:05) They Were Eleven, Moto Hagio

(1:35:14) A, A’, Moto Hagio

(1:36:49) A Drunken Dream and Other Stories, Moto Hagio

(1:38:13) The Heart of Thomas, Moto Hagio (we didn’t get into this one that much! ;o; )

(1:39:06) The Poe Clan, Moto Hagio

(1:44:03) VIEWER QUESTIONS! Question 1 (@allofthemanga): What unlicensed Year 24 manga do you most want licensed in English?

(1:59:14) Question 2 (@MommaLuvsManga): Which Year 24 mangaka or series was your introduction to the group?

(2:03:06) Question 3 (@YmerZahra): Who is your favorite Year 24 artist?

(2:06:57) Conclusion/next month's topic

This month we're celebrating Pride Month by talking about the wide breadth of LGBT manga available in English and otherwise, and how the genre has diversified over time.

Also, in support of the current protests and BLM efforts, please consider supporting some of these important causes:
• Community bail fund directory
• list of petitions to sign to reopen dropped cases
• Sylvia Rivera Law Project for low income immigrants and poc
• Resources for Human Development Morris Home Project (provides services specifically for trans people in Philadelphia)
• The Okra Project Nina Pop Mental Health Fund for Black people of trans experience
• Your local BLM chapter!
• Justice for Elijah McClain
• BLM carrd

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As the seasons change, come join Ray and Gee as we dive into the mysterious and contemplative stories of a traveling Mushi doctor as he helps cure conditions caused by the strange entities known as mushi in Yuki Urushibara's ten volume series, Mushi-shi! From horrific spore children to mischievous rainbows to singing seashells, the manga (and anime adaptation!) is a beautiful collection of folklore-inspired stories about humanity's relationship to the natural world. Hear our thoughts and dive deep into a world not too unlike our own.

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**TIMESTAMPS**

Join Gee and Ray this month, as we get to the bottom of the mysterious case of Mystery Manga! From childhood classic Detective Conan to recent delights like My Dear Detective and Don't Call it Mystery. What makes a successful mystery, and how clever does your detective have to be? From crime thrillers to supernatural shenanigans, put your powers of deduction to use and join us for a fun episode!

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This month we're talking about manga that is released as a single  volume! Including, but not limited to, short story collections,  anthologies, and one-and-done narratives. Why are these books brought to English, and how well do they do? Are short books able to rival their longer counterparts?  Hear our thoughts!

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This month, Gee and Ray are spotlighting some of the series that have disappeared part-way throughout the years. From niche classic shojo, to some of the biggest hits in Jump, the English manga market has seen difficulties from bankruptcy to low sales to legal troubles, all leading to series ending up incomplete in English. 

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This month, join Gee and Ray as we talk about the classic ESPer sci-fi, To Terra... Once again diving into the Year 24 group, this short-but-memorable series about the fight between humanity and the psychic Mu in a far-flung future evokes genre staples of the 70s, whilst feeling relevant to the modern day. As Jomy and Soldier Blue fight for survival against a genocidal algorithm, will Earth be the utopia they long for?

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We decided to start the new year (and decade) with the always-controversial topic of digital manga!! Giving insights to the realities of digital publishing, the changing format of reading, and some of our favourite hidden gems, I hope this video is interesting (and informative!!)

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Once again this December, Ray and Gee spotlight their favourite new  series for the year! From cozy domestic slice-of-life to gut-twisting suspense and a whole breadth of honourable mentions, come listen  to our picks for the year!!

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As 2019 comes to a close, Ray and I decided to talk about our favorite releases for the year. From character drama to supernatural mystery---check out our thoughts!!

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Summer means sports---and it was supposed to mean the start of the Tokyo  2020 Olympics! Fortunately, whilst real-life athletic events have had  to be put on hold, we can still dive into the passionate world of sports  manga. From the recent flux of shonen heavy-hitters, to the original  post-war classics, this fun and diverse genre only seems to grow in  popularity!

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Sometimes you just want something short and sweet to read, without flipping through dozens upon dozens of chapters. Enough story to really sink your teeth into, but not so much it outstays its welcome! So for this month, we're spotlight manga that conclude at five volumes or fewer. From spunky Shonen Jump fare, to weighty personal dramas, join us on uncovering a few titles that you might've missed!!

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***
Titles Mentioned (in order):

- Antique Bakery

- Flower of Life

- To Terra

- Astra Lost In Space

- Witch Watch

- They Were 11

- Our Dreams at Dusk

- Ping Pong

- Genkaku Picasso

- Blank Canvas: My So-Called Artist's Journey

- Marginal (not available in English)

- Love Me For Who I Am

- Boys Run the Riot

- That Blue-Sky Feeling

- My Brother's Husband

- I Wanna Be Your Girl (digital only, Mangamo)

- Cross Manage (digital only, Shonen Jump)

- Maria the Virgin Witch

- Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen (digital only, Crunchyroll Manga)

- Buffalo 5 Girls (digital only, Crunchyroll Manga)

- The Ghost and the Lady

- Children of the Sea

- That Wolf-Boy is Mine

- No Vampire, No Happy Ending

- Clover

- Backstage Prince

- Yukarism

- Love in Focus

- Phantom Seer

- Gakuen Polizi

- Girl Friends

- Hana and Hina After School

- A Blissful Land

- BL Metamorphosis

- Jujutsu Kaisen 0

- GANGSTA: Cursed

- Nonnonba

- Tono Monogatari

- Glaeolia (and other Glacier Bay publications)

- Devilman

- Sunny

- The Poe Clan

- The Heart of Thomas

- Cat-Eyed Boy

- Paradise Kiss

- Gokinjo Monogatari (not available in English)

- Itoshi no Nekokke (not available in English)

- Planetes

- Skull-Face Bookseller Honda

- Life Lessons with Uramichi Oniisan

This month, join Gee and Ray as we spotlight our own history with anime and manga, and the experiences that have led us to this point. From the wave of first-gen Pokemon cartoons, to the hodge-podge of manga available from school libraries, the two of us reflect on an adolescence of weebiness and fandom outside of the hyper-trendy, social media-fuelled experience found in the anime and manga community today. From then til now, manga has been the constant -- but not necessarily in the same way.

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The episode may be late, but Gee and Ray have LOTS to say about the popularly divisive, oft-misunderstood, Tatsuki Fujimoto! From the bleak future of Fire Punch, to the quirky portrait of grief Goodbye Eri, Fujimoto's macabre madness is worth exploring, even for the squeamish in the audience.... Follow Ray on her channel ⁠Whimsical Pictures⁠ and ⁠Twitter⁠ And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on my ⁠YouTube Channel⁠ and ⁠Twitter a mangaka spotlight

This month Gee and Ray are spotlighting the debut manga series Nabari no Ou from one of the hosts' favourite mangaka, Yuhki Kamatani. This ninja-action shounen stands out from the crowd in Kamatani's signature style, but still remains hidden from most fans' radar. So join the discussion on this outstanding drama, as we dive into this early work and find the strengths (and weaknesses) within.

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This month, join us as we discuss Haruko Kumota's fantastic josei drama, Descending Stories: Showa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu! From his childhood up until his death, Yakumo Yurakutei VIII has upheld a very particular expectation of rakugo -- but things start to shift once he accepts his very first apprentice, and as the final years of the Showa Period come to a close. This intimate character study of a prominent rakugo performer asks the audience to reflect on the nature of art and performance, the evolution of entertainment in society, and the multitudes of ways that humans connect. Hear all our thoughts this episode!

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Every so often, a series gets so popular, fans can't help but demand more! This month, we dive into the various pre- and sequels available for some of the largest manga hits available. Join Gee and Ray this month as we dive deep into the series that explore some of your favourites further.

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This month, join Gee and Ray as they talk about a brand new English debut, Colette Decides to Die! After worn-out town apothecary Colette jumps down a well, she finds herself in the underworld - but she's not dead yet! Instead, she's put to task healing Hades, the gruff young man who judges the dead. As this first volume hits shelves, we'll share our thoughts on this newest series from Shojo Beat!

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Finally, check out the latest podcast updates out on the ⁠RRTL Bluesky⁠

This month, we're joined by the fabulous Ellie from Religiously Nerdy to talk about the good, the bad, and the weird of Manga About Manga. Whether it's poignant autobiographical comics like Blank Canvas: My So-Called Artist Journey, the psychological oddity of Opus, or the shonen 'tournaments' of Bakuman, there are all sorts of manga featuring the creation of manga and the day-to-day of the people making our favourite media. We hope you enjoy this deep-dive into comics about comics, as we all enjoy comics!

Find Ellie on her personal Twitter and the Religiously Nerdy website and Twitter!

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This month, join Gee and Ray as they explore the drama and flair of the most iconic of all series (and heroines!), Rose of Versailles! It's a story of tragedy and betrayal, ensconced in the glamour of 70s shojo - come with us as the prelude to the French Revolution is explored through the eyes of Lady Oscar François de Jarjayes, Commander of the Royal Guard and Marie Antoinette's personal guard. Join us, as hearts a-flutter and heads roll!

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This month, join Gee and Ray as they finally get to wax poetic over Yuhki Kamatani's choir series, Shonen Note - Boy Soprano! After Yutaka joins the middle school choir as a soprano, his world opens up to completely new things... but is it all going to come crashing down when he hits puberty? And is the Russian prodigy Popo-chan all that he seems? Come along with us as we explore this musical masterpiece!

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There were just SO many exciting new books to talk about this year, so  we've put together just a few of our favourites that didn't quite make  the list. All of these are still wonderful and worth the read!  

In this podcast we talk about:

• Blue Flag
• Perfect World  -  read AnimeFeminist's article on the series' handling of disability here
• A Sign of Affection
• Cherry Magic! 30 Years of Virginity Makes You a Wizard?!
• Liquor & Cigarettes
• The Conditions of Paradise
• Our Teachers Are Dating
• Wave, Listen to Me
• Heaven's Design Team
• Chainsaw Man
• BL Metamorphosis
• Love Me For Who I Am   

And also mention:

• Maison Ikkoku / Mermaid Saga
• Blue Giant
• BECK: Mongolian Chop Squad
• Kageki Shojo!
• Soul Eater: The Perfect Edition
• Toilet-bound Hanako-kun
• The Apothecary Diaries

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This month we're spotlighting Gee's favourite mangaka: Fumi Yoshinaga!! From her humble beginnings as a BL artist, to the critically acclaimed Ooku: The Inner Chambers, All My Darling Daughters and What Did You Eat Yesterday?, Yoshinaga has spent her career writing beautifully imperfect characters, struggling, surviving and thriving in their lives. With her adoration of food, love of historical settings, and biting wit, there's a lot to love with her work. So join us as we discuss the many, many wonderful stories Yoshinaga has shared.

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Spooky season has arrived!! So, in celebration, this month we're talking about yokai in manga as we discuss the tradition and folklore behind these quirky characters, and the many, many different manga they're in. Listen to us gush over our favorite monsters, and the weirdest yokai around!

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This month our topic is the ever-divisive genre of BL, in celebration of 801 day. In fact, this video is only part 1 of our thoughts, with an extra special episode next week with all of our recommendations for those who want to read some of our favourite BL👀 

I hope you all enjoy, and stay tuned for more!😉  

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Once again this December, Ray and Gee spotlight their favourite new  series for the year! From cozy domestic slice-of-life to the impending climate crisis, and a whole breadth of honourable mentions, come listen  to our picks for the year!!

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Finally, check out the latest podcast updates out on the ⁠⁠RRTL Bluesky⁠

Welcome back to the grand return of the Read Right to Left podcast, with a very special spotlight episode about one of our favourite mangaka: Moto Hagio!! This phenomenal woman is a part of the legendary Year 24 Group, who helped shape the modern manga industry, practically established the BL genre, and inspired generations of future artists thanks to her notable works, including Heart of Thomas, They Were 11 and The Poe Clan. As more and more of her work has found its way to English in recent years from publishers Fantagraphics and Denpa Books, Hagio has also been inducted to the Eisner Hall of Fame. From Iguana Girl to A Cruel God Reigns, join us to hear our thoughts!!

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This month, join Gee and Ray as they explore the highs and lows of this comedic romp in love, My Love Mix Up! When teenage boy Aoki gets caught up in a mix-up between his crush and the cool, collected boy who sits in front of him, he decides his feelings are secondary in order to help the one he loves - but maybe a new love is just around the corner for him? Come with us as hearts pound and laughs echo in this fantastically funny modern romcom!

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Kaoru Mori is well known for her lush artwork and brilliant characters, but most of all for the beautiful love stories she crafts. For this Valentine's month, Ray and Gee take a deep-dive into the catalogue of this fantastic seinen mangaka, spotlighting their favourite couples, the perfection of simplicity, and Mori's perfect depiction of the ongoing human craving for love and connection she explores throughout time.

In this episode we talk about:

• Emma
• A Bride's Story
• Kaoru Mori's Anything and Something
• Shirley

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**TIMESTAMPS**

This month we're spotlighting the new-to-print drama Blue Flag! We talk about the good and bad, answer your questions and hopefully encourage YOU to try it. (Please note there are series spoilers after the 25 minute mark)

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**TIMESTAMPS**

(0:00) Introduction

(2:40) Non-Spoiler Discussion (for those who haven't read the series or are following the print release)

(25:00) Spoiler Discussion (for those who followed the digital or Japanese release)

(51:05) The Ending and LGBT+ representation in the series

(1:33:02) Twitter questions!

(1:33:05) @rinreadsmanga

(1:51:16) @TalesOfColor

(1:52:00) @storiedshelves

(1:57:48) @LumRanmaYasha

(2:03:47) @_Cheeo_

(2:06:21) @BlueNightScoot

(2:06:48) Conclusion and next month's topic! Feel free to leave your questions below! (^^)

The holidays have started, which means only one thing: food! This month we talk about the many, many types of food manga available in English---from What Did You Eat Yesterday? to Food Wars. What are our most mouth-watering faves? And which are hard to swallow?

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This month, join Gee and Ray for the second annual Gee's (Light) Novel Corner as we dive deep into one of the very first popular LNs available in English, Spice and Wolf. As travelling merchant Lawrence and the Wise Wolf Holo embark on their long journey together, will this odd couple stand the test of time? Hear our thoughts this episode!

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Welcome to this special double-episode month, as Gee and Ray round out August chatting about pet manga!! This month we spend time with the furry companions many of us share our lives with - spotlighting the ups and downs of living with pets. Join us, as we laugh and cry as we explore the manga featuring our favourite fluffy friends.

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We're starting 2022 by deep diving into some of Shueisha and Viz's lesser know series available on their simulpub service for English-speaking territories: The Shonen Jump app!! From long-time fan favourites to hidden gems to things that were definitely cancelled for a reason, the catalogue of comics from this foundational publisher on their cutting-edge service has something for everyone to enjoy!!

In this episode we talk about:

• 7thGARDEN, Mitsu Izumi
• Ayakashi Triangle, Kentaro Yabuki
• Ayashimon, Yuji Kaku
• Beast Children, Kento Terasaka
• Blue Box chapters, Kouji Miura
• Bone Collection, Jun Kirarazaka
• Chainsaw Man, Tatsuki Fujimoto
• Choujin X, Sui Ishida
• Cross Manage, KAITO
• Dandadan, Yukinobu Tatsu
• DC3, Kaiu Shirai and Posuka Demizu
• Doron Dororon, Gen Oosuka
• Double Taisei, Kentaro Fukuda
• Dr. STONE, Riichiro Inagaki and Boichi
• Fire Punch, Tatsuki Fujimoto
• Ghost Reaper Girl, by Akihisa Ikeda
• Guardian of the Witch, Asahi Sakano
• Hell Warden Higuma, Natsuki Hokami
• i tell c, Kazusa Inaoka
• Kaiju No. 8, Naoya Matsumoto
• Kubo Won’t Let Me Be Invisible, Nene Yukimori
• Look Back, Tatsuki Fujimoto
• Mitama Security: Spirit Busters, Tsurun Hatomune
• Moriarty the Patriot, Ryosuke Takeuchi and Hikaru Miyoshi
• ne0;lation, Tomohide Hirao and Mizuki Yoda
• Neru: Way of the Martial Artist, Minya Hiraga
• Our Blood Oath, Kazu Kakazu
• Phantom Seer, Togo Goto and Kento Matsuura
• PPPPPP, Mapollo 3
• ROBOTxLASERBEAM, Tadatoshi Fujimaki
• Seraph of the End, Daisuke Furuya, Takaya Kagami, and Yamato Yamamoto
• Show-ha Shoten!, Akinari Asakura and Takeshi Obata
• Spirit Photographer Saburo Kono, Kaiu Shirai and Posuka Demizu
• The Elusive Samurai, Yusei Matsui
• The Emperor and I, mato
• The Hunters Guild: Red Hood, Yuki Kawaguchi
• Time Paradox Ghostwriter, Kenji Ichima and Tsunehiro Date
• Twin Star Exorcists, Yoshiaki Sukeno
• Witch Watch, Kento Shinohara
• Yugen’s All-Ghouls Homeroom, Yuto Tsukuda and Shun Saeki

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**TIMESTAMPS**

(0:00) Introduction to the app

(9:05) Introduction to Ray's rating system

(11:20) One-star titles (no desire to continue)

(37:36) Two-star titles (maybe someday, but probably not)

(44:05) Three-star titles (promising but not great, will continue)

(1:26:09) Four-star titles (loved, will continue)

(2:21:49) Five-star titles (excellent, new faves)

(2:51:49) Questions

(3:24:05) Conclusion/next month's topic

This month Gee and Ray start 2023 with the wonderful seinen romance Sweat & Soap by Kintetsu Yamada, a series built from much more than the (potentially) skeevy premise. This cult favourite stars one of the most healthy and communicative relationships in contemporary romance series, and should be unmissable for those in search of mature love stories. So join us as we start the new year diving into Sweat & Soap.

You can purchase the official English H-doujin epilogue here.

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Once again this December, Ray and Gee spotlight their favourite new  series for the year! From mysterious crime dramas to gut-twisting  classic horror, and a whole breadth of honourable mentions, come listen  to our picks for the year!!

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This month, join Gee and Ray for a deep dive into digital manga app Mangamo! With a variety of series across genres and demographics, this subscription service collects manga for all types of readers! Hear our thoughts on the tent pole Mangamo-exclusive series available, and whether we loved or hated it! In a market filled to saturation, will this service provide what readers are looking for? Hear our thoughts this episode!

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And if you can't get enough of me, Gee, be sure to follow me on my ⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter