I come back from a trip to find out that Fantagraphics is now launching a full manga line, watched over by the eminent Professor Matt Thorn, a well-known translator and guru on manga. Four years in the making, this Fantagraphics line will start hitting shelves in September of 2010.

What's on the slate? Well, the big announcement most people seem to be following is a collection from Moto Hagio of various short stories. Hagio is considered one of the founders of modern shoujo manga, and is a part of the famous "Year 24" gang.

But, that's not my jam. Coming in December will be Hourou Musuko, translated to Wandering Son. One of my favorite titles that I've ever gotten my hands on, it's a story about gender identity issues as these two friends hit puberty. Any and every time someone has asked me for licensing suggestions, this has been the first title I'd cry. The author, Shimura Takako, has done some fantastic works, and I'm hoping that they'll now see the light of day here in the US.

To celebrate all this, Fantagraphics will be bringing Hagio to Comic Con International, marking her first appearance in the United States

If you'll excuse me, I'm going to go die from happiness real quick now that another title has been checked off my licensing wishlist for this year. All I can say is thank you, guys, for bringing these titles to the shores. I can't wait to see what else you'll be pulling out.

[via TCJ]

Legacy Comments (will be imported soon)