Comics Alternative

This month, Shea and Derek have a fun time discussing two recent manga releases. They begin with the first volume of Akiko Higashimura's Princess Jellyfish (Kodansha), a series that is new to both of the guys. In fact, Derek comments that he might not have given this title a try if they hadn't decided to discuss it for the podcast. Given the "princess" part of the book, he had wondered if this might not be too cute for him, a fluffy shojo title that may not appeal to him (while at the same time, admitting that he might be shortsighted). But as the guys discuss, Princess Jellyfish is anything but insubstantial. It's a multi-layered story exploring friendships, gender identity, and fandom. Yet, "fandom" isn't the right word when discussing this manga, and Shea and Derek spend a good deal of time understanding the character and behavioral nuances that Higashimura weaves into her narrative, supplemented by a useful glossary that she include in the back of the book. This is definitely a title that both of the guys