Tokyopop will launch a full-color line of graphic novels in February 2009 showcasing creators from around the world.
For the Tokyopop Graphic Novels imprint, Tokyopop will license works from French publishers Delcourt and Soleil, and Chinese publisher Xiao Pan.
The line will lead off in February with Orange, by Chinese creator Benjamin, and Pixie, by French creators Mathieu Mariolle and Aurore. Those will be followed in March by Luuna, by French creators Didier Crisse and Nicolas Keramidas.
Publishers Weekly has more information from Tokyopop publisher Mike Kiley.
The press release, with title details, can be found after the break:
Manga Giant Extends Publishing Portfolio
with Launch of Colorful New Line of International BooksTOKYOPOP GRAPHIC NOVELS
The Best In Color Graphic Novels From Around The Globe—Now Available For The First Time Ever In North America!
New York Comic-Con, New York (April 19, 2008)― Leading manga publisher and youth-oriented brand TOKYOPOP is pleased to unveil the latest addition to its rapidly growing publishing family - TOKYOPOP Graphic Novels. For years, European and Asian publishers have produced captivating, inspiring, and stunning full-color graphic novels that have not found a home on North American shores—until now. Beginning in February 2009, TOKYOPOP will cross the color barrier to publish a truly unique selection of rich, inventive, and stunningly original full-color graphic novels from some of the world’s most talented artists and writers.
According to TOKYOPOP Publisher Mike Kiley, “The new TOKYOPOP Graphic Novels line represents a natural evolution for us as we continue to offer the coolest stuff on the planet to readers around the world. Our launch titles have been selected to build a bridge between the manga and graphic novel audiences. This is a major initiative for us and we will not only be announcing more acquisitions in the near future but will also have some very exciting news about original TOKYOPOP projects that will appear in this new oversized format.”
In a word from TOKYOPOP Senior Editor Bryce Coleman, “There has been a wealth of truly amazing stuff published around the world, and I think people are going to be amazed at the diverse line up we’re coming out with in these graphic novels. From the gorgeous, painterly work of up-and-coming star, Benjamin, to the rich, animation-like epic world of Luuna, these books will all be as stunning to look at as they will be satisfying to read.”
About the Launch Titles:
ORANGE (February 2009)
By: Benjamin
Licensed from Xiao Pan (China)
$14.99; 1 volume; 128 pp; 7.228″ x 10″
A heartbreaking tale of a young woman attempting to understand the bewildering world around her… The luscious art of Benjamin heightens the intensity of this profoundly moving tale of sorrow and loss.
PIXIE (February 2009)
By: Mathieu Mariolle and Aurore
Licensed from Delcourt (France).
$12.99; 3 volumes, 112 pp; 7.228″ x 10″
Pixie embarks on captivating adventures far and wide in this ethereal and mesmerizing fantastic voyage that stretches the limits of imagination.
LUUNA (March 2009)
By: Didier Crisse, Nicolas Keramidas
Licensed from Soleil (France).
$12.99; 3 volumes, 112 pp; 7.228″ x 10
On the night of her initiation into her North American Indian tribe, young Luuna discovers she must confront an ancient curse that will change her forever. This haunting coming-of-age story is filled with deep pathos and stunning artwork that brings an unforgettable legend to life.
April 19th, 2008 at 5:57 pm
excellent news!
i am always on the lookout for foreign (i.e. european) comic book material here in the U.S.
so this announcement is very welcome indeed.
between this and marvel’s deal with soleil, i am hoping this type of thing will FINALLY get a strong foothold in the marketplace. now all that is needed is for the comic book buying audience to branch out and try this stuff.