Graphic Novels/Comics/Manga

Two Cranes Press presents A Field Guide to Surreal Botany, an anthology of fictional plant species that exist beyond the realm of the real, fully illustrated in gorgeous full-color by Janet Chui. The specimens contained herein--dutifully and, in some cases, painfully recorded by our keen-eyed assortment of contributing cryptobotanists, field researchers, and graduate assistants (laden with glass jars, magnifying glasses, and appropriate body armor)--are organized according to geographical region, and described in erudite detail by our contributors. Inside the book you’ll find specimens such as the Couch Kelp (Siturfatarscea velvetorleva monthlypaymetis), a floating seaweed with an inflatable bladder resembling a sofa; the Big Yellow Flower of Unnecessarily Obvious Information (Explanatum obviosis), a plant with a flower that is big and yellow; Twilight Luon-Sibir (Russica spectrata), which has an extremely short life cycle and exists in a state of probability; and forty-five other plant species from all over the world and beyond.Not since Cryptethnophytology of Latin America by Dr. Dean Jameson (Palgrave, 1978), Asian Pomological Fantastika by Sng Chen Whye (Tinhau UP, 1981), or Parallel Botany by Leo Lionni (Knopf, 1977), has such a comprehensive volume of surreal flora been assembled in one place. Produced in conjunction with the Surreal Botanists Association, A Field Guide to Surreal Botany is an unforgettable tour through the fantastical plant kingdom.Table of Contents"(Floating) Armor of The Dark Blue Heart, Armorea Navum," by Susan Fedynak"Attercopp plant, Chelicereae Telacaulum," by Alexandra O'Neal"Avian Trumpetflower, Trochilium avifructus," by Andrew Nicolle"Baby cabbage, also regionally referred to as The Leaf, Squallroot or Mother's Little Helper, Cruciferae Brassica homogenesis," by Jay Lake"big yellow flower of unnecessarily obvious information, Explanatum obviosis," by Elizabeth Langford"Bitter Mortar, Cucurbitaceae Marah," by Steve Himmer"Bone Garden, otherwise known as Adam's Ribcage, Aloe skelaphalia," by Eric J. Millar"Burning Bush Fungus, Encephalitozoon Elysium," by John Bowker"Clickweed, Everricula Pilolaqueus," by Ann Leckie"Cloud Anemone, Bromeliaceae Tillandsia nebularia," by James Trimarco"Couch Kelp, Siturfatarscea velvetorleva monthlypaymentis," by Jonathan Wonham"Devil’s Pork, Tuberaceae Tuber," by John Black"Dream Melons, Melo somnio," by Joe Hansen"Esemtep, Unclassified," by Steve Berman"Fairy apple, timewarp lemon, Atlantis Mandrake, Podophyllum sidhe," by Lucy A. Snyder"firefly bellflower (Tintinnabulum photuris), Tintinnabulum photuris," by Francesca Forrest"Flame Lily, Nymphaeaceae-flammiferum," by Matthew Baugh"Forget-me-bastard, Myosovictimis uncertae sedis," by Elaine Clift"Giant Cloud Lily, Liliaceae Lilium," by Patricia L. Havis"Haunt Vine (also known as Ghostroot and Spirit Creeper), Ipomoea Umbris," by Mark Teppo"Kitty Willow, Salix ambulara," by Mary E. Lowd"Kvetching aspen, Populus kvetchis," by H.F. Gibbard"Lautokan Ear-blossom Plant (Tautau e vata), Auriculula cosmetales," by Brendan Carson"Leonidas' Bloom, Campanula lacedaemia," by Adam Nakama"Library Plum, Bibloteca prunus," by Merrie Haskell"Nightmare Lotus, Nymphae somnium maledictus," by Kris Dikeman"Ozymandias-plant, Lamiaceae (Genus unknown)," by Cassandra Phillips-Sears"Padmamukhi (the Lotus-Mouthed), Nelumbonaceae nelumbo," by Shveta Thakrar"Poliphila, or 'Shriner Vine', Unclassified," by Victoria Elisabeth Garcia"Queen Victoria’s Bloomers, Monkey Ho, Caligula homocopulus," by Eric Schaller"Screaming Mimi, Datura clamo," by Yvonne Pronovost"Shade’s Globe (also: Sibylwort), Umberia medianus," by Darja Malcolm-Clarke"Singing Grass, unknown," by David Kelly"Stag-eye nettle, Urtica aboculus," by January Mortimer"Swift River Hopping Pitcher Plant, Pseudosarracenia verdeverminus," by Suzanne Palmer"Teslated Salishan Evergreen, Cupressuceaohm salishan nikola," by Livia Llewellyn"The Faerie Hogweed, Heracleum ignotum," by Philip J. Lees"The Nabokov, Unclassified, by Stephanie Campisi and Ben Peek"The Poseur Nosehairs, Animaceae Sominus," by Toiya Kristen Finley"The Sembla, Spasmodicus plasticosa," by Matthew Kressel"Thuringian Shade-tree, Umbropsida noctalus," by Catherine Gunson"Time Cactus, Chronocactus hematophageis," by Christopher M. Cevasco"Twilight Luon-Sibir, Russica spectrata," by Vera Nazarian"Ugly Tree, Medusa's Hairbrush, Acer horrendoturpis," by Tom Pendergrass"Waterbaby Cress, Nasturtium Charleskingsleni," by Erik Amundsen"Whistle tree, Catalpa musicalis," by Shweta Narayan"Wild Homilywort (var. Speechtree), Quercus loquatium," by Alex Chambers"Wind melon, Saturn melon, God's Eyes, Cucumis melo helioaero," by Dave Coulter

At long last, Hanako-kun reveals his plan to save Nene from her inevitable, swiftly approaching death. But even knowing his intentions, Nene is determined to return to reality—and to do that, she’ll need the help of School Mystery No. 4, Mei Shijima. Can Nene help this spirit overcome her regret and self-loathing and find her way home?!

With the original gate between the two worlds shattered into a million separate gates, beings from all of the worlds in the old Creation now have the opportunity to join Lucifer's recently opened existence. While neither Heaven nor Hell await them there, the forces aligned against the Lightbringer still have a card or two left to play.and their attitude towards Lucifer's new subjects is a far cry from charitable!This volume contains:Lucifer #21–28

Reasons to read: - Dive into Aquaman's captivating journey from abandonment to becoming the King of the Seven Seas. - Experience the unique blend of fantasy and adventure that makes Aquaman a beloved superhero. - Discover the fascinating underwater world of Atlantis and its rich mythology. - Keith Giffen's masterful storytelling brings depth and authenticity to this iconic character.

The Odyssey is an exciting graphic novel retelling of Homer's classic tale, full of action and adventure. Readers who enjoy mythology, epic quests, and visually striking storytelling will find themselves captivated by this rendition. Hinds' beautiful illustrations perfectly capture the rich mythology of ancient Greece, adding a new dimension to this timeless tale.

Toilet-Bound Hanako-Kun, Vol. 10 would be an exciting read for fans of supernatural mysteries set in haunted school settings. The book's most distinctive feature is its unique take on Japanese folklore, with a focus on ghosts and spirits. The story is also known for its intricate plot twists that will keep readers on their toes. Overall, this volume is highly recommended for readers who enjoy thrilling mysteries with a supernatural twist.

Set in the timeless world of Japanese Mythology, Sei tells the story of the uncertain origin of the Japanese equivalent of Death, the female Grim Reaper. Sei is an epic legend about love and betrayal taking place in a world of Gods, Goddesses and mythical creatures. Tsuchi, the fire goddess, tells the story of how her birth caused the death of her mother, Izanami. Izanagi is so distraught by his wife's death that he goes berserk. His desire to be reunited with Izanami brings him to the farthest reaches of the Netherlands where no mortal may fear to tread. A battle of epic proportions ensues in which mythical Japan will never be the same... but was Sei formerly Izanami, the primordial goddess and personification of the Earth and darkness...?

"Ichiro" is a great read for those interested in the intersection of war, culture, and spirituality. In this graphic novel, Ryan Inzana masterfully weaves together a story about a young boy's journey to understand his identity and heritage. Through beautiful illustrations, readers will be transported to the temples and streets of Japan, where the line between the human and supernatural worlds is blurred. The unique combination of history, mythology, and modern-day politics makes "Ichiro" a must-read for anyone seeking a fresh take on the coming-of-age genre.

Death, The High Cost Of Living can be a great read for those who enjoy thought-provoking and deep stories that examine the intricacies of life and death. Neil Gaiman's writing style coupled with the stunning artwork by Chris Bachalo, Mark Buckingham, and Dave McKean makes for an immersive experience that captures the essence of Death's character. The story explores themes of friendship, love, and the fleeting nature of life and will definitely leave a lasting impact on readers.

Now in paperback the biggest names in fantasy and horror take on The Sandman.Neil Gaiman's The Sandman is the most successful adult comic of all time and the first ever to win a World Fantasy Award. Gaiman's moody, twisted tales made Morpheus, Lord of the Dreaming, an icon recognized across the globe. Now millions of new readers can appreciate Neil Gaiman's award-winning creation as interpreted by some of the most imaginative minds in modern literature and one of the most breathtaking assemblies of talent in publishing history:Clive Barker * Tad Williams * Barbara Hambly * Gene Wolfe * Nancy A. Collins * Tori Amos * Steven Brust and others

If you enjoy classic stories with a modern twist, Outlaws of the Marsh is a perfect read for you. This novel provides a comedic and accessible insight into the warring states of ancient China, with each character adding to the hilarity.

This Aquaman book is a thrilling adventure that takes you deep into the underwater world of Atlantis. With stunning illustrations and a captivating storyline, it introduces Arthur Curry as he discovers his unique abilities and embarks on a quest to find his missing father. Dive into this epic tale of heroism and destiny, where the fate of an entire civilization rests in the hands of one reluctant hero. Don't miss out on the chance to join Aquaman in his journey to become a legend.

The Odyssey is a great read for lovers of graphic novels and those who want a new perspective on the classic tale of Odysseus. The artwork is gorgeous and the narrative is action-packed, bringing the ancient epic to life in a fresh way. Hinds' graphic novel is an engaging way to experience the exciting journey of Odysseus and the challenges he faces on his way back home.

"I'm not going anywhere."Nene and Kou want to learn more about their mysterious friend, Hanako-kun-and what better way to do that than by hunting down school mystery number five, "The Four P.M. Bookstacks"?! Rumors say a secret door in the library leads the way to a supernaturally special collection. The Bookstacks know everything about everyone who's attended Kamome Academy-past, present, AND future! But whatever you do, don't read the red books...or your future will be drenched in blood!

Kai makes a friend at school and invites him over to the palace for tea. He asks his brothers for help in making conversation, but is that really such a good idea...? Then it's a battle of wits when Heine joins the princes (and princess!) for a game in the courtyard. After all the time they've now spent under his tutelage, can the students finally overcome the master?

Water Margin tells the stories of a group of heroes, who stand for different classes of people daring to struggle against the corruption and oppression of the times. Altogether there are 105 men and three women among the notable characters in the Liangshan band. Set during the Northern Song Dynasty, this book relives the most stirring chapters in the novel which have become the subject of numerous dramas and films, and are the most popular episodes in Chinese fiction. They include Lin Chong killing the unworthy chief of Liangshan Marsh, Wu Song slaying a tiger with his bare fists and avenging injustices, and Song Jiang’s attacks on the Zhu Family Village. With artistic skills and wit, cartoonist Huang Qingrong presents vivid scenes in this drama of valour and brings alive the heroic legend.

Otherworldly wonder at the top of one world and the heart of another! In the Arctic Circle, the X-Men and Alpha Flight find a power that could save the world at the cost of destroying...what? But cost is no object when the power is revealed as a gift from Loki, who doesn't like it when his gifts are returned! When the God of Lies loses his own prize, he decides one bad turn deserves another and sets his magic against the X-Men, only for the New Mutants to take the fall...and rise to Asgard! The X-Men ride to the rescue, but can even the mightiest mutants survive the multiple magics of myth? Collects X-Men and Alpha Flight #1-2, New Mutants Special Edition, and X-Men Annual #9.