UPDATED: Wed, Jul 13, 04:51PM After a few years of fading fortunes, manga publishing is catching its second wind. More manga and light novels are hitting the shelves in bookstores and comic shops, and more titles than ever are available in digital formats the same day/date as in Japan. So have things truly turned around for Japanese comics in North America? Get a taste of what's hot, what's not, and what's next for manga in North America and Japan from top publishing pros, including Kurt Hassler (publisher and managing director, Yen Press), Michael Gombos (director of international publishing and licensing, Dark Horse Comics), Ben Applegate (associate director, publisher services, Penguin Random House), Erik Ko (chief of operations, Udon Entertainment), Stu Levy (TOKYOPOP) and possibly a surprise guest or two! Moderated by Deb Aoki (Publishers Weekly, Anime News Network).
Howl's Moving Castle is another visually spectacular tale of imagination from Hayao Miyazaki. Join Her Universe and Hot Topic for Studio Ghibli trivia, prizes, and a special screening of the enchanting film. Hosted by Her Universe founder Ashley Eckstein.
