Megatokyo Vol. 4

This American manga series is built upon manga fandom, as well as other elements of Japanese culture that outsiders love, like gaming and anime. Gallagher has many different plot lines going through the book, all built around or inspired by these subjects. Some feature anime voice actresses, others gamers from America who have moved to Japan. One large story line is the Beatlemania-like reception an out-of-work anime voice actress gets. The book is about fandom and, indeed, often feels like an overexcited Internet message board. Gallagher's penciled artwork is very attractive—he doesn't just rip off what Japanese cartoonists have been doing but creates a more stylized look for all the characters, one that's somewhere in-between anime cartoons and video game sprites. Unlike most manga from Japan, Megatokyo is a very dense read with panels tightly packed in and word balloons taking up a lot of room. Those whose appreciation of the Otaku lifestyle already puts them in the mood for this hyperactive storytelling will enjoy it. Those not as familiar with the world of manga and anime and trying this book for the first time, perhaps based on its move from Dark Horse to CMX, might find it more of a challenge. (June)