Book Description

Darkness & Dread is an invaluable resource for both players and DMs who want to incorporate elements of horror and dark fantasy into their d20 System adventures and campaigns. Beautifully designed and illustrated in the Legends & Lairs tradition, Darkness & Dread offers a wide variety of exciting new features, including:

• New rules for madness, fear, and other psychological effects
• New monsters utilizing the fear rules
• A complete pantheon of insane, god-like beings that grant their followers powers and madness
• New prestige classes, feats, and spells designed for survival in a dark fantasy campaign
• Information on integrating the horrific into your world setting

Book Description

Courtney has changed schools yet again, but this time she's in the Coven's special class for magical studies. But when a student spell goes wrong and leaves one of her classmates cursed, can Courtney lead the kids into Goblin Town and find a cure or will misfortune follow the group straight to the Twilight Kingdom? Ted Naifeh's grim girl is back in this new collection of troll tales and suspenseful stories! Take a whirlwind tour of Courtney's old 'hood, the ghastly Goblin Town, and the mystical Twilight Kingdom! ... Read more

Book Description

Memories of Shadow... Witches and wizards from across Midgard have gathered in Geffin, city of magic, to celebrate their art. But while festivities fill the streets, fierce battles rage on in the city’s darkest corners. In the subterranean caverns of Alfheim, Loki battles Geffin’s corrupted viceroy for control of an ancient power while Chaos crosses swords with his nemesis, Skurai, in a battle to the death. In the fight for the future, the shadows of the past must be brought to light. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A little rushed?
Without giving away any major spoilers, parts of this book really disappointed me. I feel that the plot overall seems a little rushed - events happen without much description or detail. The ending is very vague, with no preview of the cover for the next book. And who knows when we'll see the next Ragnarok - there's no release date from tokyopop!

Ragnarok again
One of my favorite mangas the worst thing about Ragnarok is waiting for the next one, and wondering if tokyopop is going to release more of them after 10 (nothing on there site about 11+, and i know it goes higher then that) all in all worth your time and money. ... Read more

Book Description

Due to popular demand, the early Tales of Asgard continue! After their adventures across the wilds of Asgard, it's back to school for Thor, Balder and Sif...but when you're in training to be a warrior, study hall isn't so quiet! The lives of the three young friends take an interesting turn when Amora the Enchantress enters the picture. Sparks will fly when their schooling in swords and sorcery comes head-to-head! Plus: Thor grew up with the belief that he would one day wield the mighty uru hammer, Mjolnir. But as the years pass and he becomes increasingly frustrated by his inability to achieve his goal, Thor comes to question what makes a person worthy. But his questions will have to wait, as Sif is kidnapped by Frost Giants! ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Um Whoopsie got the uncensored version
I loved the book. But seriously I got in trouble for bringing the older teen version. ALERT FOR YOUNG READERS: If you want a safe buy then check the back and make sure it is not older teen or else you'll regret it. Especially if you go to middle school.

Overall: the book is great but I am biting my finger nails just to wait for the next one. Please i really hate waiting Masakazu Katsura.

Characters: Iori is my favorite character. She is like everything a boy dreams about cept the real sleezy stuff.

Basically if I could I would Rate this a 10 out of 5.

Um Whoopsie got the uncensored version
I loved the book. But seriously I got in trouble for bringing the older teen version. ALERT FOR YOUNG READERS: If you want a safe buy then check the back and make sure it is not older teen or else you'll regret it. Especially if you go to middle school.

Overall: the book is great but I am biting my finger nails just to wait for the next one. Please i really hate waiting Masakazu Katsura.

Characters: Iori is my favorite character. She is like everything a boy dreams about cept the real sleezy stuff.

Basically if I could I would Rate this a 10 out of 5.

The most wonderful romatic comedy!
I used to think that Maison Ikkoku was the best romantic comedy ever. Well... that all changes after I read this one (yes, I have read the Japanese version until the end). This is a must buy for those who love romantic comedy series. But it's definitely not for those who like to see decapitations, fighting, and other gory stuff. Here are my rates:

Story: 10/10
The best! The introduction is great and the progress is great. The original ending is too short, but that's all fixed by the alternate ending, which is top rated. I really hope VIZ will include this alternate ending.

Characters: 10/10
There are not many authors who can create characters that you can fall in love with. But Masakazu Katsura has done just that in this series. As you progress through the story, you WILL fall in love with the main characters and really care for them, especially Ichitaka, Iori, Itsuki, Izumi, and Aiko.

Graphic: 10/10
We are talking about Masakazu Katsura here. He draws the most beautiful women in manga. Not many manga can come close to this one in the graphic area.

Translation: 8/10
VIZ does a decent job here. On the bad side, it does sensor some conversations that may not be suitable for young children/teens. On the bright side, it translates a lot of conversations, which probably do not make sense or are not logical for average American readers.

Overall: 9.5/10
A definite buy for those who love romantic-comedy stories.

I's or Aizu.... It's a fantastic buy!
I just got I's today, and I am now addicted to it and can't wait for more of it to come out! :)I loved Video Girl Ai, and I'm really glad that another great series by Katsura Masakazu has been released in the U.S.(Has Shadow Lady been put out as a "cheap" GN?).I didn't really realize I's was by the same author, because the cover is really realistic and beautiful, but when I realized it, I wanted it!

There's not much to say that other reviews haven't said, but the pricing was very good, the art is fantastic (even the "ugly" faces aren't that hideous), and the romantic, angsty story is the main pull for me.Of course, if I were a guy, I would also love the gratious panty scenes, so if you like that stuff, this book is something you might want to pick up.Iori is definitely a better character than Video Girl Ai's Moemi, although I'm waiting to see how the other main girl will act (dare I hope she's a little like Ai?). Overall, I recommend purchasing this book --- but it's 15 books, so if you like them short, this'll disappoint.

NICE ROMANCE MANGA
I BOUGHT THIS book about yesterday and ill say it very addictive, the characters are good and each have a great distictive personallity about them which enhances the story as it goes. I instantly fell in love with it since im familair with katsuras video girl ai (check that one out too) i mean this book like the first reviewer said said takes sumthing from real life such as a girl modeling for a mag and the attention that follows her. throughout the book there are perverted dudes that try to hit on her after her secrets been exposed. Itchicka is the main chearacter of the series, he has a crush on Iori (the swimsuit model)and it just happens to be a case of unrequited love. It was prett humerous to see him like freak out whenever he's near or alone with iori.. Damn! its like hes goin into a hernia or sumthing!!!! lol!!! Yeh....

overall the first voulume has nice story structure and development, and is just as deep and romantic as video girl ai just like any of katsuras work. This is another hit from viz and
its good to see sumthing different form shonen jump advances really. this is a good alternative for those into romance manga.

perfect 5/5 ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Pretty Good Shoujo
I liked "Kare First Love" alright.It wasn't bad, just average.

I thought the story was pretty cliche.The hot guy falls for the girl-who-looks-ugly-because-she-doesn't-dress-right-but-is really-pretty.And of course, there's the obligatory rotten friend who's jealous and tries to screw up the girl's chances with the guy.

Characters were ok.Pretty standard.I had mixed feelings about Karin.She's the pushover type with no self-esteem, but I did think that the way she really thinks about things was funny, and showed that she wasn't a complete loser.

The art's good.Karin looks satisfiably geeky in the first part of the book, and she's beautiful later.Actually, pretty much everyone in this manga is beautiful.The environments are done well too.

Overall, you should read this if you don't have anything else, but there are better Shoujo titles like "Hot Gimmick" and "Peach Girl"."Kare First Love" is just mediocre.

Omigod!!
I thought the best manga series were Girl Got Game and Hot Gimmick, but wow! When I discovered Kare First Love from a friend of mine, I couldn't stop reading it and I was begging her for the next book. I basically zapped through the series like lightning. Mark you, I still need to read the third one and I really can't wait! ^.^

This is one of the best shojo mangas out there!
When I first started reading shojo, all of my friends told me I had to read this book; that this manga was one of the best out there. And it really is! The story is about a dorky, awkward girl who developes a crush on a guy she thinks is way out of her league; and when the guy starts paying attention to her, she can't figure out what to do. Its a really sweet story that I'm sure you're gonna love.

A MUST read manga for all girls!!!
"Kare First Love" is the kind of manga I wished I had read when I was in Junior High/ High school! This manga has a great story &characters that just about anyone can relate to!

Anyone who has ever been shy, socially awkward, or dealt with peer pressure ( growing pains) & been in LOVE =)... will be able to relate to this book.

Karin is that awkward, geeky girl who is socially awkward, a passive, people pleaser who lets herself get bullied by her popular classmate to share her home work. On her way to school at the subway, Karin met a boy named Kiriya. Kiriya seems to be fascinated by Karin & Karin can't stand him since she isn't use to getting that much attention.

Geeky Karin gets pressured by her classmate again to go on a group date where she meets Kiriya & Karin was humiliated by her classmate in front of everybody. As if things weren't bad enough her classmate wants Kiriya badly & Karin got drunk accidentally (making a very bad impression)!!!

What will poor Karin do? will she let her classmate snag Kiriya a way? or will she ever be brave enough to get close to Kiriya? Will Karin ever see herself the way Kiriya sees her?

Kare's First love is probably my favorite shoujo manga at the moment. It's a story about coming of age, self discovery, dealing with that awkward stage in your life & that unforgettable first love!!!

Such a great manga that is a MUST read!! One of the best current shojo!! Viz has done a great job licensing all these shojo titles! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

greenwood!
Here is greenwood is about a boy who moves into an all boys dorm (called Greenwood) because his older brother married the woman he is in love with. Once he has moved in he discovers that the inhabitants of the dorm are... odd.

Here is Greenwood was good, but slightly confusing at parts. I really enjoyed it! If you like manga you'll probably like this. ... Read more

Book Description

Megumi, a nine-year-old martial arts enthusiast and all around rapscallion always wanted to be, "the manliest man on earth." After saving a sorcerer from a group of local toughs, Megumi is presented with a magic genie which can grant any wish. Unfortunately, this genie is slightly hard of hearing, and misconstrues Megumi's original desire as wanting to become the, "womanliest woman on earth," and in a flash, Megumi's Y chromosome is swapped for an X. Six years later...Megumi is the hottest girl in school, but has stayed true to his/her tough talkin', punk stompin' ways. If that's not enough, Genzou, the baddest dude in town has been smitten by Megumi's womanly wiles. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Just when I thought gender-switching was overdone...
Cheeky Angel is about a lovely girl.No, a down right hottie female student.She has fine hands, silky long hair, white smooth skin and can beat the stuffing out of any boy she meets.The problem is, six years ago she was a guy.But when she asked...at the time he asked...a genie to make him the "manliest man on Earth" the tiny creature turned him into the "womanliest woman on Earth."
Now Megumi, who all the boys drool over, has another problem.The baddest dude in town seems to like her.In fact, he seems to be in love with her.
What's a girl...er...guy to do?

Genzo - The reason to read this
I've read the other reviews, and I just wanted to add mine. "Cheeky Angel" is an interesting "gender-bender" since, until about 3/4ths through it do you get an indication that things are not exactly as they seem. There IS a trick to the gender-bending question, but you have to be paying attention. Or, for some people, it doesn't matter.

Now, that said, enjoy the ride. Frankly, the things that make this worth reading are Genzo and his silly ways. I've enjoyed the anime and I have to say that it was a great ride. Miki, Kobayashi, Yasuda, and Fujiki all help make this a great cast, but it's the rarely seen characters like Megumi's father and mother, her maid, and Genzo's sister that make it fun. Plus, Megumi's rival who arrives around the middle adds to the fun.

This is NOT just a shoujou piece, since there is a LOT of fighting and bad words in it. I was a little disappointed with Viz's translation, since I don't think they give justice to Miki, but at least it was released in English.

Also, the anticipation of Megumi's first kiss is killer, possibly worse than Ranma 1/2 because that one just got silly after 30+ volumes. Besides... we all know she's gonna fall for Genzo. Afterall, I would. ^___^

There's a lot of questioning "what makes a man manly" and "what is feminine" since it is a gender-bender, but I like this discussion because Megumi is so adamant that she's NOT a girl. And Genzo tries SO hard, and he's SO cute, and I just love him to death. With Kobiyashi's strange crush on Soga, the faithful Fujiki, and the ever-peeping hentai Yasuda, this is just fun.

Really. Read it just for Genzo. He's really worth it. XD

Great stuff.
What can I say that hasn't already been said about "Cheeky Angel", just bye it now and see for Yourself You wont be disapointed.

Silly Title, Great Manga
I never would have thought I'd be reading something called "Cheeky Angel!" Thankfully, I had some extra time at Borders the other day, and picked this up on a whim. I'm very glad I did.

The basic premise, as has already been described, involves a scrappy little boy named Megumi who gets transformed into a girl by a devious genie - but of course, even as a girl, he retains all of his martial arts moves and violent impulses. As the story opens, it is 6 years since the "curse" took effect, and Megumi has blossomed into a certified babe, now entering high school, where he/she instantly becomes the school obsession. Young Meg almost immediately has the misfortune of encountering the reigning tough guy Genzo; he's making his ex-girlfriend cry, Meg beats him up, and naturally, he is lovestruck.

While the plot sounds simple so far, I have a feeling there is more to the whole "curse" thing than meets the eye, so I'm anticipating plenty of plot twists and turns in the future. Most importantly, this manga is hilarious; I can't recall laughing out loud so much while reading a graphic novel, at least not of late. And, there's some action as well, since Meg still can't keep from getting into fights that showcase her martial arts prowess.

I understand there is also a 50 episode anime series based on this manga that ran in Japan; hopefully, if enough people show interest, it will be licensed and released here in the U.S. soon.

For those looking for a great blend of humor and action, this is very recommended.

Gender Bending fun.... :D
I am shoujo queen, but I was interested in picking up something different. I am a conservative Christian so I wouldn't pick certain titles either, but this one caught my eye, and it is pretty intriguing. Although its nothing new, I was drawn into because it was funny, so I bought it.

Now this is the story of Megumi, a young 9yr boy whom is playing around a river bank with his friend one day and they save a "wizard" from an attack. He is then rewarded with a book that holds a genie whom grants him one wish. When Megumi ask to be made "the manliest man alive", he is turned instead into the womanliest woman alive!!! And the thing is, everyone except his friend whom was with him, remember him ALWAYS being a girl. As in being BORN a girl. But he STILL remembers being a boy, he has his memories as a boy. After living as a girl for 6yrs though, he is seeming less and less like a boy with his friends help. But he still fails miserably most the time, especially since he has to keep kicking the guys butts who chase after him because he is so HOT.! :D

Cheeky Angel is a lot of fun. It covers something VERY WELL that I have thought about a lot. "What would it be like to have a sex change?". I mean, that's just plain messing with God's will, but this guy had no choice and everyone remembers him being a girl except him and his friend, so its a little different. In reality he is a woman, but with the memories of a little boy trapped inside. I though "Well, I guess if he failed to find a Genie, he could get a sex change, since technically he is a boy...." HAHAHA its confusing, yeah. But its a HECK OF A LOT OF FUN!!!

All the things that the guys do is hilarious, and I love Soga, he has some of the BEST expressions.! :D So if you want something funny, and/or enjoy gender bending, you will be VERY delighted by "Cheeky Angel"!!!

(...) ... Read more

Book Description

Invisible in the back of the class, 10th-grade loner Yugi always had his head in some game - until he solved the Millennium Puzzle, an Egyptian artifact containing the spirit of a master gambler from the age of the pharaohs! Awakened after 3,000 years, the King of Games possesses Yugi, recklessly challenging evildoers to the Shadow Games, where even the most ordinary bet may result in weirdness beyond belief ... and the loser losing their mind! Who will win the Game of Silence? Who will win the Game of One Digit - Yugi's thumb or a violent criminal's finger on the trigger of a gun? And what about the Game of Air Hockey With Explosives Over a Hot Stove? This exciting mega-hit is printed in the original right-to-left Japanese format. Let the games begin! ... Read more

Reviews (32)

The Opinion of a 13 Year Old Girl
Watching the TV show, I pretty much became stunned by the animation, cast of characters, and the all-in-all originality put into it. But it still didn't answer the question that bugged me for years; where the heck did this all start from?
Then I read the manga, and it pretty much cleared it up for me, but aside to that, it's creepy plot, cast, and the endless suspense in each chapter left me looking at Yu-gi-oh at a whole new angle.
Even though this is a Shonen manga ('Shonen' meaning 'Boy' incase you're wondering), I myself being a girl even enjoyed it, and I think that's pretty cool that one series can do that. So if you think you can handle it, I definetely recommend this manga.

The Origin of Yu-gi-oh
Well, they have finally published the long-awaited Yu-gi-oh manga saga (one of the best manga hits in Japan). This book has spectacular art (all though odd for those who know Yu-gi-oh-- but the art concept is just early), and the stories are astounding as well as entertaining. Such as my favorite-- the one when Yami-Yugi (dark Yugi) battles with the serial killer in the hamburger restaurant.
All the stories are from the magazine called, "Shonun Jump" which contains Dragon Ball Z, Yu-Yu-Hageshou and others (for these stories, purchase other manga).
Yu-gi-oh fans will love it, and even those who just love anime will also enjoy its art, story and beloved characters such as Yugi(Yugi), Jounichi(Joey), Honda(Tristan) and Anzu(Tea).

WARNING: All though the popular anime serries is rated Y-7 (for seven and up) the book eceeds that barriar by up to PG-13 (or higher-- no, not R or NC-17). Children under twelve should not read it, while kids above thirteen will love it and read it over and over again.

***Yu-gi-oh***
Yugioh is easily one of my favorite Manga's ever. Every pages keeps me interested, while other's i have a habit of sorta skipping over pictures. If you don't like the anime, you should probably know that the Graphic Novel is nothing like it. It's SOOO much better, not to mention Yami is a great psycho good guy.

For teens, too
Although the listing here on this website shows the reading level to be 9-12 years of age, I am fifteen and I enjoyed this book immensely.
If you like the TV show, it's good to see how the Yu-Gi-Oh saga begun. This also shows a little of how to play the card game, which can seem confusing at first, but is simple after you learn how to play.
If you don't like the show, or if you think the show is simply childish craze (as I once had), this book totally contradicts your opinions.

Given the fact that it is targeted towards twelve-year-old boys, it is surprisingly morbid, what with Dark Yugi's shadow games.
This is a good read for ages 11+, I believe. Even adults may find it amusing.

this is a must have
Well, after seeing the show I liked readeing shonen jump. Well, I must say I'm impressed! Now, why is this better you ask? well, first off you've watch the kids WB show there is one question that probaly bugged you... where did this all start??? Well, your question has been answeraed! and it has all of the original japanese names!

Now for age. When they say 13 up they mean it! parents don't let children atleast under 10 read this! It's extremely violent and has some mild language. Yep so this isn't your average kids WB kiddy show! So, you have been warned! But still of you are 10-11 still get your parents permission.

Out of all good manga. now I'm not gonna give anymore details so read it for yourself!^^ ... Read more

Book Description

The Fantastic Four's Human Torch earliest solo sagas are collected in their entirety in a single volume, some reprinted for the first time ever! See the Torch battle the Wizard, Paste-Pot Pete, Zemu, the Acrobat, the Sub-Mariner, the Asbestos Man, the Eel, Plantman, the Puppet Master, the Beetle and Kang, and team up with Spider-Man, the Thing, and Iceman! This is the last remaining classic Marvel super hero series to be reprinted in the ESSENTIAL format. Collects Strange Tales #101-134 and Annual #2 ... Read more

Book Description

A tale about a boy and his T Rex! Ely is an everyboy trying to cope with the death of his dog Tommy. When he finds a live, 40-foot Tyrannosaurus Rex trapped in a cave behind his grandfather's house, Ely embarks on an adventure to tame this seemingly friendly giant, convince the town his new pet isn't a threat, and keep his dinosaur safe from the jealous town bully. With Tommysaurus Rex at his side, Ely discovers what it takes to be a man... and what it costs. ... Read more

Book Description

*From the prolific creator of 18 manga titles including the best-selling series Escaflowne*TOKYOPOP to release animated series on DVD Fall 2005

Before they can have some hot fun in the summertime, Ai, Orina and Mew help Zero investigate a mysterious stray aura at a seaside camp. Once there, it's apparent that all psychically gifted people experience the same dream--a beautiful sunset overlooking the ocean. Is this some sort of environmental message? Or is someone fooling with Mother Nature? ... Read more

Reviews (2)

The "Rebirth" of Vampire Manga
I just read "Rebirth" Vol. 2. It was extremely good. "Rebirth" is a classic story of "well-meaning scientist and very attractive daughter accidentally resurrect ancient vampire and team up with novice exorcist to help vampire lift evil curse of evil sorcerer of light." The story is a little cliche for vampire manga, but the art is very good and most of the lines are pretty well written.

The problem is that, as with all good manga, it grabs you and makes you sit there with your nose to the paper, glued to the story, for an hour or so. At this point, you flip through the omake (extras) at the back, put down the book, frown, and head back to the bookstore to dish out more money to see how it turns out. I suppose it's worth it, because as manga goes, "Rebirth" is pretty cheap. My reccomendation is either to not buy it at all or to buy all the volumes of it that the bookstore has. If you read it, you'll like it, but you'll also be spending a lot of money. Borrow it from a friend if possible, but "Rebirth" is worth your money.

Island cameo!
John, Pan & Miwa(? the rich girl--I forget her name other than it means fox) put in a cameo at the temple--comparing the groups--dark(Pan & Deshwitat), light(John & Millenear) & good-for-nothing(Miwa & Remi). This series is getting interesting(ok, a bit predictable--the light magician is evil, the dark magician must save the world). Shades of Bastard!(no, not as consistantly funny & Dark Schneider is the coolest dark magician turned hero around) & others with an eye to role-playing fantasy games, the art & story are cool enough to be entertaining. To defeat Kal, Deshwitat must learn light magic(ok, I'm reminded of the cold spells bit against Efreet in Bastard, but that was a one-shot & this is basic to the plot for our hero to learn)(Yeah, Rett Butler's reminding me of Gara the Ninja Master so far in personality). There's a bit more back-story & we see what Kal's been up to while Desh has been sealed up for 357 years. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Hilarious beyond words!
Dr. Slump is a timeless classic, and it is Akira Toriyama's original big hit. Fans of the comedy found in his original Dragonball series (pre-"Z") will absolutely love the slapstick presented in Dr. Slump (in fact, hardcore DB fans might even recall a little cameo by Senbee and Arale!). If you enjoy a good laugh, don't hesistate to check this out. ... Read more

Book Description

Vampire Yui reappears in Miyu's life, but all is not well with young Yui. Then the ice spirit Reiha's interference causes more problems than it solves. In truth, Reiha cannot stay out of Miyu's business, intruding time and again, much to Miyu's growing anger... How long with this go on? ... Read more