Shojo & Tell: A Manga Podcast

This episode discusses the second half (volumes 7–12) of Hot Gimmick by Miki Aihara.Oh, so you thought the first half of Hot Gimmick contained the worst of the problematic hot trash? Think again. Shojo & Tell host Ashley and Naja of Blerdy Otome are back to talk about this wild, wild ending to a wild, wild series where all the content warnings apply. Who does Hatsumi end up with in her triangle of horrible choices? Why are Tachibanas like this? What are you doing, Shinogu? Who is THE worst character in the entire series (on a scale of constant abuse and gang rape to actually why the heck isn't this series about cuties Subaru and Akane?)? What are the most popular ships on Ao3/FF.net for this series, and do the people writing it know they're wrong? All that and more is touched on in this podcast episode. You've been warned.REFERENCESHot Gimmick is available from Viz Media in EnglishHot Gimmick S is a reimagining of the endingOther anime/manga mentionsGundamMy Hero AcademiaArchive of Our OwnFanFiction.netMisc. media mentions"We Found Love" by Rihanna and Calvin HarrisOtome game: In Your Arms TonightOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USFind Naja's work on her website, Twitch, Twitter, and BlueSkyShojo & Tell on Bluesky, Tumblr, Instagram, and TwitterAshley on Bluesky

This episode discusses the first half (volumes 1-6) of Hot Gimmick by Miki AiharaIt's here. It's finally here. Shojo & Tell host Ashley has been trying to make this episode happen for at least two years. And now, here we are. We're talking about the first half of Hot Gimmick, aka, Hot Trash, aka Hot Mess. Seriously: Content warning for basically everything. Ashley was prepared to have nothing nice to say about this series (she's read it before and thought it was the worst shojo series ever), but it's surprising what reading something 12 years after your initial encounter with it can do... Naja of Blerdy Otome is a big fan of Hot Gimmick, despite also recognizing that it's extremely problematic. There's underage sex and drugs, there's blackmail, there's demeaning servitude, there's gang rape. And that's just the first three volumes. Hatsumi's a doormat, Ryoki's bad, Azusa's bad, Shinogu's bad trying to be good, Akane is the reason we're in this mess. Only Subaru is good. Team Subaru! Let's talk it through.REFERENCESHot Gimmick is available from Viz Media in EnglishHot Gimmick S is a reimagining of the endingOther anime/manga mentionsChobitsCardcaptor SakuraGundamRed RiverBasaraFrom Far AwayArchive of Our OwnWattpadStory of NHL player who Ashley went to college withMisc. media mentionsGossip GirlYouOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USFind Naja's work on her website, Twitch, Twitter, and BlueSkyShojo & Tell on Bluesky, Tumblr, Instagram, and TwitterAshley on Bluesky

This episode discusses all of Neon Genesis Evangelion: Angelic Days (volumes 1-6) by Fumino Hayashi.Shinji, get in the robot! Shojo & Tell host Ashley and the guy previously known as Ashley's "Cyborg 009 buddy," Josh McHugh, delve into this version of the beloved series Neon Genesis Evangelion, which is an alternate universe of the video game Neon Genesis Evangelion: Girlfriend of Steel 2nd (a PlayStation 2 game, and yes there is first Girlfriend of Steel before this entry), which is an alternate universe of the events in the final episode of the original anime. The main plot is mostly about whether Shinji will pick Rei or Asuka to be his life partner while they're all still in high school. Are you keeping up? Great!Ashley and Josh do a sort of cultural exchange in this episode: Ashley doesn't really like Evangelion (ikr?), and Josh, like many a millennial, thinks Eva is the GOAT and is very hype to discuss the Instrumentality sequences; Ashley is over 100 episodes deep on a shojo manga podcast, while Josh hadn't read a shojo manga before this. The two talk about how, in Angelic Days, Rei is a completely different person from her beloved anime self; the shortcomings of the backstory about Shinji's parents, Gendo and Yui Ikari; what punk bands Gendo would be into; and much more. And if you're wondering: There ARE still mech fights in this, but there shouldn't have been. So on second thought: Shinji, don't get in the robot!REFERENCESNeon Genesis Evangelion: Angelic Days is out of print.  You can find used copies on resale sites. It was published by ADV manga in English.Other anime/manga mentioned:Neon Genesis EvangelionRebuild moviesEnd of EvangelionCyborg 009The Vision of EscaflowneCowboy BebopSerial Experiments LainSoul EaterNeo YokioYour NameMy Hero AcademiaHot GimmickPunk bands namedLinkin ParkFall Out BoyPanic at the DiscoYellowcardHawthorne HeightsMisc. other mentionsThe Rest of Us Just Live Here by Patrick NessxkcdRed oni/blue oniManic pixie dream girlsControversy over Netflix's translation of EvaBattleTech /  MechWarriorThree Wise MenOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USJosh wants you to check out his Soundcloud because we're both stuck in the year 2005: https://soundcloud.com/j_m_p_hListen to his Serial Experiments Lain OP a capella version in particular: https://soundcloud.com/j_m_p_h/boa-duvet-a-cappellaShojo & Tell on Bluesky, Tumblr, Instagram, and TwitterAshley on Bluesky

This episode discusses Miyuki-chan in Wonderland and The One I Love by ClampA short episode to discuss two short Clamp works. Shojo & Tell host Ashley and her husband/journey-through-all-of-Clamp-buddy Asher recognize that hentai Miyuki-chan was perhaps.... just not at all for them. And also isn't meant to be taken seriously anyway. Which is good, because neither Ash really enjoyed it. Then there's The One I Love, which feels like a strange gender experiment gone wrong. To quote Asher: It feels gender essentialist and "homework-y." The best we can say is we did our homework assignments of reading these for our Clamp 101 course.REFERENCESMiyuki-chan in Wonderland is available from Viz MediaThe One I Love is available from Viz MediaYou should probably listen to CLAMPcast insteadOther Clamp works mentioned:Shirahime-SyoLegend of Chun HyangXSukiTsubasa: Reservoir ChroniclesMagic Knight RayearthClamp School DetectivesThe One I LoveTokyo BabylonMan of Many FacesDuklyonxxxHolicRG VedaCardcaptor SakuraChobitsAngelic LayerWishLegal DrugCloverOther manga/anime mentionedDelicious in DungeonA Sign of AffectionJoJo's Bizarre AdventureEvangelion: Angelic DaysSnow White with the Red HairMarsVampire KnightBack in our Digimon podcasting days...Read Miyuki-chan while listening to Miami 2 Ibiza by Swedish House MafiaOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USAsher on Archive of Our Own: @dasheryShojo & Tell on Bluesky, Tumblr, Instagram, and TwitterAshley on Bluesky

Covers all three volumes of Legal Drug by ClampGet ready to get high. And horny. And gay. And paid. Okay, to be honest, we're not sure what the drug is, or that it's legal, but hey, we're here to talk about it anyway. Shojo & Tell host Ashley and her husband Asher continue their Clamp journey with Legal Drug, which is technically complete, in the same way that QQ Sweeper is complete (which is to say: Not at all, because there's a sequel, Drug & Drop, and it's been on hiatus for forever). None of the central mysteries of Legal Drug is solved within the confines of the volumes. Well, whatever. We're all just here for Kazahaya and Rikuo being in provocative poses, right? The biggest question of the episode is: Is this queerbaiting? Get ready to hear our thoughts about Clamp's fiftymillionth JoJo's Bizarre Adventure  fanfic (this one is basically the crappier version of xxxHolic).REFERENCESLegal Drug is available from Dark Horse ComicsDrug & Drop is also available from Dark Horse ComicsYou should probably listen to CLAMPcast insteadOther Clamp works mentioned:MuriKuriSukiTsubasa: Reservoir ChroniclesMagic Knight RayearthClamp School DetectivesThe One I LoveTokyo BabylonMan of Many FacesDuklyonxxxHolicRG VedaCardcaptor SakuraChobitsAngelic LayerWishOther manga/anime mentionedDelicious in DungeonQQ SweeperQueen's QualityKimi ni TodokeCyborg 009Neon Genesis Evangelion: Angelic DaysSnow White with the Red HairFigs need waspsThe Ashes love Tales of games maybe too muchTales of Vesperia (Raven)Tales of the Abyss (Jade)There is only hitsuzenArchive of Our OwnOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USAsher on Archive of Our Own: @dasheryShojo & Tell on Bluesky, Tumblr, Instagram, and TwitterAshley on Bluesky

Covers all of the original The Poe Clan series by Moto HagioIt's time to talk about the gay vampires who built shojo manga. Year 24 author Moto Hagio, one of the most influential names in shojo, tells the tale of the Poe clan, a group composed of immortal vampirnella who turn the young siblings, Edgar and Marybelle, into one of their kind. Edgar turns his classmate, Alan Twilight, into a vampire, and the two go gallivanting through the forest like fairies. (Okay, they go on other adventures over the decades, too.) Vrai Kaiser, a managing editor at Anime Feminist, explains The Poe Clan's place within vampire literature, while Megan DeYarman, of the sites Manga Test Drive and Renaissance Josei, explains THE POE CLAN's and Moto Hagio's impact on the history and trajectory of shojo manga. Shojo & Tell host Ashley is just here to look pretty and facilitate. REFERENCESThe Poe Clan is available from FantagraphicsAs mentioned in the episode, there is a rebooted Poe Clan series that Hagio started in 2016. Fantagraphics will also be releasing that starting in 2025.Other Hagio works mentioned:Heart of ThomasOtherworld BarbaraA Drunken DreamA Cruel God ReignsRachel Thorn (translator)Previous podcasts with Megan and Vrai:Earthian (with Vrai)The Full-Time Wife Escapist (with Megan)Key to the Kingdom (with Megan)Juline (with Megan)Other manga/anime/artists mentioned:Yun KougaYumiko IgarashiTokimeki TonightThe Sword of ParosSakura-GariBoy's AbyssKeiko TakemiyaOizumi SalonFruits BasketShotaro IshinomoriMist, Rose, and StarsFairy RanmaruRiyoko IkedaDear BrotherOoku: The Inner ChambersVampiresThe Palgrave Handbook of the Vampire (Vrai cowrote an essay in this!)Our Vampires, OurselvesFrankensteinLord Byron"Christabel"CarmillaBram StokerAnne RiceInterview with the VampireThe Gilda StoriesTwilightVampire Princess MiyuCONTACT USFollow Vrai on Blue Sky @writervrai.bsky.socialRead Vrai's work on Anime FeministSupport Anime Feminist on PatreonFollow Megan on BlueSky @brainchild129.bsky.socialFollow Manga Test Drive on BlueSky @mangatestdrive.bsky.socialSupport Megan on PatreonVisit Renaissance JoseiRead Megan's work on Anime FeministShojo & Tell on Bluesky, Tumblr, Instagram, and TwitterAshley on Bluesky

This episode discusses all volumes (1-5) of Juline by Narumi Kakinouchi.When you think "shojo manga," you typically don't think "ninjas." But that's just a stereotype, and we're here to defy stereotypes. Shojo & Tell host Ashley and Megan DeYarman, of the sites Manga Test Drive and Renaissance Josei, talk about Juline, a manga series from animator Narumi Kakinouchi (of Vampire Princess Miyu fame). The titular Juline, along with other young female ninjas Bakuya and Seika (and inevitable male love interest Kio), are looking for male relatives and lovers who have disappeared. They encounter a mysterious foe in Black Pearl (also known as Tamayo, also known as Mei). Is Tamayo a woman or a man? Can Juline, Bakuya, and Seika undo the spell that's been put on their loved ones? Ashley and Megan dive into the art style (and unfortunate lack of lettering skills from Tokyopop), the gender representation, and the overall ~vibes~ of this strange little series.REFERENCESJuline is out of print. It was published by Tokyopop.There's a sequel called Shaolin SistersMegan has been on episodes for The Key to the Kingdom and The Full-Time Wife EscapistOther anime/manga mentioned:Revolutionary Girl UtenaSailor MoonSpace Runaway IdeonDr. SlumpUrusei YatsuraMacrossMegazone 23The Pilot's Love SongAldnoah.ZeroLupin the 3rd Part IV: The Italian AdventureApocalypse ZeroMagic Knight RayearthVampire Princess MiyuRyoko's Case FileNarutoTail of the MoonMaid-Sama!Gundam WingStu Levy is why everything is badArchive of Our OwnOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USFollow Megan on BlueSky @brainchild129.bsky.socialFollow Manga Test Drive on BlueSky @mangatestdrive.bsky.socialSupport Megan on PatreonVision Renaissance JoseiShojo & Tell on Bluesky, Tumblr, Instagram, and TwitterAshley on Bluesky

We discuss the two shojo manga versions of Cowboy Bebop: Cowboy Bebop by Hajime Yatate [Sunrise staff] and Cowboy Bebop: Shooting Star by Cain KugaAsk an anime fan above the age of 30 what their favorite anime is, and chances are high they'll say Cowboy Bebop. The music, the animation, the mood — it's iconic. And then there are the two shojo manga iterations of Cowboy Bebop, which have largely been lost to the sands of time (and then, there's the Netflix live action version...). Shojo and Tell host Ashley and her husband, Asher, read both of these severely out of print manga adaptations, and discuss here. Topics of discussion include: Ed and gender, why the heck is Shooting Star the way it is, and why was it decided that this seinen anime needs not one, but two shojo manga adaptations?REFERENCESBoth Cowboy Bebop manga adaptations are out of print. They were previously published by Tokyopop.The Cowboy Bebop anime is still beloved by many who aren't the AshesThe Netflix live action version of Cowboy Bebop was funYoko Kanno's music is part of what makes the anime such a hitOther series mentioned:Outlaw StarNeon Genesis EvangelionNeon Genesis Evangelion: Angelic DaysDimension WBleachLegal DrugXGurren  LagannThe Vision of EscaflowneFushigi YugiMaid-Sama!Tech bros trying to colonize space: Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Richard BransonOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USShojo & Tell on Bluesky, Tumblr, Instagram, and TwitterAshley on Bluesky

This episode discusses all volumes (1-8) of The Vision of Escaflowne by Katsu AkiThe Vision of Escalfowne is the anime that got Shojo and Tell host Ashley into anime. It sparked one of only a handful of great obsessions in Ashley's life. It's probably the reason this podcast exists at all.Katsu Aki's shonen manga version of the story is..... not like the anime you know and love.It's explicitly billed as a shonen series, and it's all downhill from there. Instead of being a badass track and field star with short hair who saves Van and Allen more times than anyone in the series bothers to count, Hitomi is now a busty babe with glasses who's necessary to pilot the giant mech, Escaflowne. Prince Van is an annoying uncouth and unskilled swordsman. Sir Allen is a knight who is nothingness. Dilandau is — well okay, Dilandau is still a pretty crazy delight, honestly. But a different kind of crazy delight.The Ashes discuss what this iteration of ESCAFLOWNE has to offer in comparison to the beloved TV anime and the gritty movie adaptation of the series.REFERENCESUnfortunately (fortunately?), this manga is out of print. It was originally published in English by Tokyopop.The anime is available from FunimationAs is the movieThe shojo manga version has never been licensed in EnglishOther Escaflowne things"Memory of Fanelia" songANNcast movie episode from 2015Other series mentionedDigimonCardcaptor SakuraSailor MoonFushigi YugiCyborg 009EvangelionHot GimmickDarling in the FranxxSword Art OnlineDragon Ball Z (Master Roshi)BleachMagic Knight RayearthxxxHolicSpy x FamilyHunter x HunterCowboy BebopMisc. memtionsAvatar: The Last Airbender Fire NationThe Hunger GamesNeo Yokio  "Helena Saint Tessero is the plot."Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Shredder)Outro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USShojo & Tell on Bluesky, Tumblr, Instagram, and TwitterAshley on Bluesky

Wondering if you should pick up Lord Hades' Ruthless Marriage by Ueji Yuho? Ashley and Asher discuss the first volume of this new manga published by Yen Press, in which Lord Hades has been shot by one of Eros' arrows and thus is fated to fall in love. But not without a lot of hijinks happening first, harem manga style.This is a short review of Lord Hades' Ruthless Marriage volume 1.REFERENCESLord Hades' Ruthless Marriage is available from Yen PressOther Greek mythology-inspired media we mentioned:Percy Jackson seriesCirce by Madeline MillerThe Song of Achilles by Madeline MillerNeon Gods by Katee RobertMisc mentionsRenji from BleachDisney's HerculesMorgana was a guest for the Pet Shop of Horrors episode, which you can listen to hereCONTACT USShojo & Tell on Bluesky, Tumblr, and Instagram

This episode discusses volumes 8–15 of Sacrificial Princess and the King of Beasts by Yu Tomofuji.Sariphi has gone from ritual sacrifice to acting queen, but she's still working to gain the respect of members of beastkind. In this episode about the back half of Tomofuji's series, Mackenzie from Mac Loves Manga and Shojo and Tell host Ashley break down the highlights. We get to talk more about our favorite hyena boy, Lante, and his heartwarming worldviews; crotchety Anubis and the amazing journey he went on (where he got stabbed at least twice); the power of Sariphi, particularly in the arc with Fenrir; plus, we finally find out why the king is partially human, and meet some of the best side characters who should definitely have their own series.Sacrificial Princess and the King of Beasts is available from Yen Press in EnglishThere's a spinoff that's not licensed yet, The White Rabbit and the Beast PrinceBe sure to check out Shoujo Sundae, Colleen's Manga Recs, and Basic BoiOther anime/manga mentionedVampire KnightOne PieceRequiem of the Rose KingMy Happy MarriageOokuTokyo GhoulDragon Ball ZHunter x HunterFullmetal AlchemistThe World is Still BeautifulDub actors lobbying for better payMad MaxAvengers: EndgameOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USMackenzie on Bluesky, Twitter, Instagram, TumblrMackenzie's YouTube channelShojo & Tell on Bluesky, Tumblr, Instagram, and Twitter

This episode discusses volumes 1–7 of Sacrificial Princess and the King of Beasts by Yu Tomofuji.Sariphi goes from ritual sacrifice to acting queen consort in the span of only a few volumes. The real problem? She's a human living among beastkind, hiding the secret of the part-human beast king while trying to win over the hearts and minds of people who look nothing like her. Tomofuji's series pushes boundaries, and Mackenzie from Mac Loves Manga is here to fully break them down. Mackenzie joins Shojo and Tell host Ashley to discuss the political intrigue of this series, how refreshing Sari is as a heroine, how endearing the tsundere boys Anubis and Lanteveldt are, and, as is only natural, make inevitable comparisons to Beastars and Zootopia.REFERENCESSacrificial Princess and the King of Beasts is available from Yen Press in EnglishBe sure to follow Shoujo Sundae and Colleen's Manga RecsOther anime/manga mentionedAlice 19thRomantic KillerYona of the DawnSkip Beat!Gakuen AliceTears of a LambSukeban DekaKill la KillBibliophile PrincessBleachNarutoMob Psycho 100BeastarsDemon SlayerOshi no KoTakane and HanaA Centaur's LifeMonster MusumeDarling in the FranxxNeon Genesis EvangelionOther media mentioned:Beauty and the BeastZootopiaBaltoThe Hunger GamesThe MatrixAnime Feminist review of Sacrificial Princess and the King of Beasts episode 1Hana to Yume magazineMackenzie's video on Romantic Killer/performative shojoOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USMackenzie on Bluesky, Twitter, Instagram, TumblrMackenzie's YouTube channelShojo & Tell on Bluesky, Tumblr, Instagram, and Twitter,

Discusses all of the manga Codename: Sailor V by Naoko Takeuchi.Before there was Sailor Moon, there was Sailor V. Or... maybe? Is that how the timeline lines up? Well, anyway. We're continuing our journey with the Sailor Guardians by discussing the prequel/sequel/???? to Sailor Moon, which is all about Minako/Sailor Venus. Minako superfans Honey and Vixen explain how Usagi and Minako differ, why Sailor Venus is their favorite Sailor Guardian, and why everyone should be on Team Minako. Shojo & Tell host Ashley has to admit that Minako makes a lot more sense after reading this superhero gag manga. If you liked the silliness of the 1990s Sailor Moon anime, then you should be reading Sailor V!REFERENCESCodename: Sailor V is available from Kodansha ComicsBe sure to listen to our Sailor Moon episodes with Anne LaRoseThe one true Sailor Moon fansite, Tuxedo UnmaskedOther anime/manga mentionedBloom Into YouRevolutionary Girl UtenaHot GimmickDuklyonFruits BasketNichijouYona of the DawnPrincess JellyfishDragon Ball SuperDigimonSacrificial Princess and the King of BeastsCutie HoneyAstro BoyVideo games mentioned:Fantasy ZoneTwinBeeBreath of the Wild  / Tears of the KingdomSkyrimDragon QuestResident EvilListen to fellow manga podcast, Manga MavericksCheck out Kodansha's new manga streaming service, K MangaOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USFollow Honey on: Twitter, Instagram, and TwitchFollow Vixen on TwitterShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and Instagram

This episode discusses the second half of the Sailor Moon manga by Naoko Takeuchi.We're back to talk about the Infinity, Dream, and Stars arcs of the beloved Sailor Moon series. Now that all the Sailor Guardians are here, Shojo & Tell host Ashley and Anne LaRose, who runs the Shojo Power blog analyzing Sailor Moon, reveal their vastly different favorite Guardians. As a n00b to the series, Ashley wonders what is even going on with the Sailor Stars. And why there's a creepy circus. And what the heck any of these villains really want. It doesn't really matter, because the Sailor Guardians kick ass, right? And Mamoru is Sailor Earth. Right. Fangirl ChatGPT agrees.REFERENCESSailor Moon is available from Kodansha ComicsThe 1992 anime is on HuluSailor Moon Crystal is on NetflixThe Sailor Moon Cosmos movie is coming out in the summer of 2023Other manga/anime mentioned:Codename: Sailor VWeathering with YouYour NameOne PieceFruits BasketAnime Feminist article on queernessHunter x HunterPrincess JellyfishAkiko HigashimuraCyborg 009Princess KnightYona of the DawnA Sign of AffectionOuran High School Host ClubBleachNarutoMadoka MagicaPretty CureLand of the LustrousTwin Star ExorcistsRumiko TakahashiTwo-Spirit peopleLindy WestLord of the FliesFifty Shades of GreyOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USAnne runs shojopower.comFind Shojo Power on: Twitter, Facebook, and InstagramShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and Instagram

This episode discusses the first half of the Sailor Moon manga by Naoko Takeuchi.It's our 100th main episode(!!), so we finally suck it up and cover one of the biggest shojo series of all time: Sailor Moon. To start off, Shojo & Tell host Ashley makes a shocking confession, which Anne LaRose, who runs the site Shojo Power dedicated to analyzing Sailor Moon, takes in stride. From there, Ashley and Anne respond to listener feedback on what makes Sailor Moon so beloved, rank their favorite Sailor Guardians, share feelings about Sailor Moon and Tuxedo Mask's romance, and explore how Takeuchi's series altered the course of magical girl stories. The story arcs discussed are the Dark Kingdom and Black Moon.REFERENCESSailor Moon is available from Kodansha ComicsThe 1992 anime is on HuluSailor Moon Crystal is on NetflixThe Sailor Moon Cosmos movie is coming out in the summer of 2023Other manga/anime mentioned:Codename: Sailor VMaid-Sama!Fushigi YugiCardcaptor SakuraThe Vision of EscaflowneSaint SeiyaHunter x HunterTokyo Mew MewCreamy MamiAlice 19thFruits BasketNanaAmerican cartoons/comics mentioned:Powerpuff GirlsBatman: The Animated SeriesSpider-Man: The Animated SeriesTeenage Mutant Ninja TurtlesThe Real GhostbustersThe IncrediblesGen Z/Generation Alpha doesn't understand the concept of files on a desktopAlethea and Athena Nibley did the Eternal Editions/Naoko Takeuchi collection translationsOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USAnne runs shojopower.comFind Shojo Power on: Twitter, Facebook, and InstagramShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and Instagram

A discussion about all three volumes of CLAMP School Detectives by CLAMP.We're rounding out the unofficial Clamp School trilogy with CLAMP School Detectives, which is actually a shojo series! Nokoru, Suoh, and Akira (from Man of Many Faces) make up the elementary student council representatives at Clamp School, and they're determined to help any maiden in distress. Shojo and Tell host Ashley and her husband, Asher, discuss how Clamp School is a dystopian totalitarian state disguising itself as a utopia, what it does or does not get right about going to prestigious schools, and how the council would react if a girl asked for help with period cramps. Ashley insists multiple times that you don't need to read volume 2 of this manga. It's superfluous!REFERENCESCLAMP School Detectives is available from Viz Media digitallyOther CLAMP manga mentioned:XLegend of Chun HyangMagic Knight RayearthMiyuki-chan in WonderlandThe One I LoveTokyo BabylonMan of Many FacesDuklyonTsubasaxxxHolicRG VedaLegal DrugCardcaptor SakuraChobitsAngelic LayerWishOther manga/anime mentioned:Ouran High School Host ClubBisco HatoriJoe from Cyborg 009Tai from DigimonNeo YokioDanganronpaPrincess JellyfishEscaflowne (shonen manga version)JoJo's Bizarre AdventureOther books mentionedInclusifyThe Hunger GamesFinnickThrone of GlassThe Poppy WarChinese spy balloonYou should probably just listen to the CLAMPcast in Wonderland episodes about this manga insteadOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USAsher on Archive of Our Own: @dasheryShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley's Tales of Xillia fanfic: Well SuitedJoin us next time for a discussion of the first half of Sailor Moon!

A discussion about the two-volume series Duklyon: CLAMP School Defenders by CLAMP.Another two-volume shonen gag manga from CLAMP, an even sillier and shorter Shojo & Tell episode than usual. The CLAMP School Defenders Kentarou Higashikunimaru and Takeshi Shukaido are trying to protect the institution from the Imonoyama Shopping District Association. From there, an alien romance commences. Duklyon is strange, comedic, and a loving send up to  tokusatsu shows. Most of this episode is just Asher and Ashley trying to say "Higashikunimaru" 10 times fast. (No, it's not. That's only part of the episode. We promise.)Duklyon is available from Viz Media digitallyOther CLAMP manga mentioned:Man of Many FacesRG VedaClamp School DetectivesTsubasaCardcaptor SakuraChobitsTokyo BabylonXMagic Knight RayearthAngelic LayerWishLegend of Chun HyangShirahime-SyoOther manga/anime mentioned:Power RangersSSSS.GridmanSailor MoonSpace Patrol LulucoDilandau from EscaflowneYuu WataseYou should probably just listen to the CLAMPcast in Wonderland episode about this manga insteadOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USAsher on Archive of Our Own: @dasheryShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley's Tales of Xillia fanfic: Well Suited

A discussion about the two-volume series Man of Many Faces by CLAMP.This is a two-volume gag manga about a gentleman thief who's in elementary school named Akira. He has two moms who look identical to each other. He's part of the Clamp School Detectives. He's in love with a kindergartener named Utako. It might be one of the best romantic relationships in any Clamp manga. Wait, what? Shojo and Tell host Ashley and her husband do their best to crack the case as to why this strange, should-be-problematic short series is actually endearing and wholesome.Man of Many Faces is available from Viz Media digitallyOther CLAMP manga mentioned:RG VedaClamp School DetectivesTsubasaCardcaptor SakuraChobitsTokyo BabylonMagic Knight RayearthAngelic LayerWishOther manga/anime mentioned:Bungo Stray DogsCowboy BebopYuYu HakushoFushigi YuugiD.N.AngelSailor MoonPersona 5Edogawa RanpoPretty WomanSome Like It HotBuzzfeed Quiz: You Know How Old You Are Literally, But How Old Are You Mentally?You should probably just listen to the CLAMPcast in Wonderland episodes about this manga insteadOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USAsher on Archive of Our Own: @dasheryShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley's Tales of Xillia fanfic: Well Suited

This episode discusses all seven volumes of Alice 19th by Yuu Watase.Sisters Alice Seno and Mayura Seno end up falling for the same handsome boy, Kyo, and their fight for his affection threatens to destroy the whole world. That's a bit of an oversimplification, but the general gist of Watase's Alice 19th. Chika and Giana from the podcast Shoujo Sundae join Shojo and Tell host Ashley to talk about the battle between the Lotis Masters and Maram Masters, where words are turned into magical but very deadly violence. We discuss the influences of September 11, 2001, on the story, Watase's efforts at diversity and inclusion, whether we consider Alice a magical girl or not, and more. REFERENCESAlice 19th is available from Viz Media's Shojo Beat lineOther Watase series mentioned:Absolute BoyfriendImadoki!Fushigi YuugiFushigi Yuugi: Genbu KaidenFushigi Yuugi: Byakko SenkiAppare Jipangu!CeresArataOther anime/manga series mentioned:Sailor MoonCardcaptor SakuraInuYashaAttack on TitanOuran High School Host ClubThe Vision of EscaflowneOther media mentioned:The Lord of the Rings (movies)Atlantis (movie)RRR"Synchronised Sinking" by The LucksmithsOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USShoujo Sundae on Twitter: @ShoujoSundaeChika on Twitter: @chikasupremeChika on Instagram: @chikasupremeGiana on Twitter: @Giana_Luna_Giana on Instagram: @giana_luna_Shojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley's Tales of Xillia fanfic: Well Suited

This episode discusses all of Twinkle Stars by Natsuki TakayaWelcome, hoejos, to the first Shojo and Tell episode of 2023, with special guest Colleen. We're here to discuss Natsuki Takaya's TWINKLE STARS, which is the only series Takaya has completed since she finished this little series called Fruits Basket. (That is, aside from Furuba spinoffs.) Prepare your tear ducts, because it dives just as hard — if not harder — into twisted family dynamics like Furuba. We answer burning listener questions like "which page made you cry the most?", marvel at the star imagery, and of course, make endless comparisons to Fruits Basket. Which Takaya series is better? You'll have to listen to find out.CONTENT WARNING: SuicideREFERENCESTwinkle Stars is available from Yen PressWe make frequent comparisons to Takaya's other series, Fruits Basket, which we previously covered:FB episode 1FB episode 2FB episode 3Other series mentioned:Kimi ni TodokeBasaraKodochaAn example of the servant/high school student dynamic: A Girl and Her Guard DogOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USColleen on Twitter: @manga_nostalgicColleen on YouTube: @ColleensMangaRecsColleen on TikTok: @colleensmangarecsShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley's Tales of Xillia fanfic: Well Suited

This episode discusses all volumes of Wotakoi by Fujita.Gather 'round, gamers, and let you freak flag fly, fujoshi: Wotakoi is the lighthearted, reassuring read all otaku need. It follows six young adults as they navigate fandom and romance, to hilarious, heartwarming effect. Ellie from the Religiously Nerdy podcast joins to discuss our three main couples, answer a slew of listener questions, and generally identify aspects that make the series so relatable. (Ashley, unfortunately, relates a bit too much to Kabakura.)REFERENCESWotakoi is available from KodanshaThe Wotakoi anime is available on Am*zon Pr!me (a service we do not endorse)Other manga mentioned:Sweat and SoapJoJo's Bizarre AdventureBleachDimension WTwin Star ExorcistsMaid-Sama!A Silent VoiceKill la KillMy Hero AcademiaCardcaptor Sakura: Clear CardSailor MoonInuYashaThe Vision of EscaflowneAnohana: The Flower We Saw That DayAngel BeatsFruits BasketOther anime/manga podcasts mentioned:Religiously NerdyManga MavericksShoujo SundaeThe Otaku Noobs PodcastGames mentioned:Fate/Grand OrderElden RingGranblue FantasyDead by DaylightTales of the AbyssTales of AriseTales of XilliaOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USEllie on Twitter: @themuslimblerdEllie on Instagram: @themuslimblerdReligiously Nerdy on Instagram: @religiouslynerdyReligious Nerdy on Twitter: @3muslimnerdsShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley's Tales of Xillia fanfic: Well Suited

Covers all 4 volumes of Skull-face Bookseller Honda-san by Honda.Ever wanted to know what it's like to work in a bookstore? Well, your friendly neighborhood bookseller, Honda-san, has some funny stories to share and will teach you about wholesalers. Oh, and Honda's a skeleton. Of course. Honda relays many hijinks at their Kin*kuniya or B**k*ff in Tokyo, particularly in regards to foreign customers. The Ashes compare the anime and the manga, talk about issues surrounding book distribution and discovery, and name their favorites among Honda's coworkers. Here's a short episode for Halloween that has absolutely nothing to do with Halloween other than everyone's portrayed in a funny costume. Anyway, enjoy our rants about Rakuten Kobo!REFERENCESSkull-face Bookseller Honda-san is available from Yen PressThe K-Drama service we were thinking of is, ironically, Rakuten's VikiManga/authors mentioned:The Story of SaiunkokuThe Poe ClanOsamu TezukaBleachMy Hero AcademiaHorimiyaPixivBarnes and Noble's new strategy away from niche titlesDive deep into the confusing world of publishing sales  figuresOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USAsher on Archive of Our Own: @dasheryShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley's Tales of Xillia fanfic: Well Suited

Discusses all eight volumes of Marmalade Boy by Wataru Yoshizumi.Marmalade Boy is a quintessential shojo that has it all: Swingers! Step-sibling romance! Student-teacher relationships! And it does it all in a fast-paced eight volumes. In this episode, Lucy from the CLAMPcast podcast and Shojo & Tell host Ashley answer a ton of listener questions, which cover topics ranging from Marmalade Boy's place in shojo history, our feelings about Meiko and Namura, how Miki and Yuu's parents rank against other manga parents, what we hope for from Seven Seas' upcoming rerelease of the manga, and much more. (Hint: We definitely hope for less sentences like “I love you, Yuu!”)REFERENCES (WIP! Full show notes TK!)Marmalade Boy is being rereleased by Seven SeasOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USListen to Lucy's podcast all about CLAMP manga and anime called CLAMPcast in Wonderland! It's really good.CLAMPcast on Twitter @CLAMPcastpodFollow Lucy on Twitter @LucyinBooklandFollow Lucy on TikTok @LucyinBooklandShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and Instagram

This episode discusses all six volumes of Absolute Boyfriend by Yuu Watase.The Ashes are back to do a compare and contrast between two shojo heavyweights, Yuu Watase and CLAMP. Last episode we covered Chobits even though it's a seinen series, partially because we're determined to read every CLAMP series, and partially because we knew Absolute Boyfriend appears to have taken heavy inspiration from Chobits and shojo-ified it. We talk about how Absolute Boyfriend handles sex and A.I. compared to Chobits, whether it's magical and dreamy that your boyfriend can be destroyed and have to go to the Apple Store, and are thankful that, at the very least, Riko is not a schmuck. (Although, she might be the high school female equivalent of a schmuck? You decide after hearing how she handled her love triangle between the figure, Night, and her best friend, Soshi.)REFERENCESAbsolute Boyfriend is available in English from Viz Media's Shojo Beat lineWhy do they keep making live action adaptations of this??Other Watase series mentioned:Fushigi YugiFushigi Yugi: Genbu KaidenFushigi Yugi: Byakko SenkiCeresArataSakura-GariOther CLAMP series mentioned:Legal DrugXMisc. mentions:MeganeBoss BabyTwilightMagical GirlfriendNoragamiBioShockHatsune MikuIAOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USAsher on Archive of Our Own: @dasheryShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley's Tales of Xillia fanfic: Well Suited

This episode discusses all eight volumes of Chobits by CLAMP.We're continuing our journey through CLAMP with their most provocative, perverted, and problematic series yet: The sci-fi series Chobits, where personal computers (persocoms) take the form of cute high school girls with cat ears. Hideki, peak schmuck boy, finds a free one in the trash, and he names her Chi, and then he may or may not fall in love with her, even though she behaves like a child. Talk about awkward. Asher and Ashley have A LOT of feelings about the moral implications of the relationships between humans and persocoms that are presented by each character arc, the way artificial intelligence and computer memory is discussed, and about the handling of the sexual topics. Look. CLAMP apparently isn't saying it's okay to marry Hatsune Miku. But your love of Hatsune Miku is real love. Ashley's still waiting for the "so what?" of it all.PLEASE NOTE: This episode is marked explicit due to being unable to avoid talking about lewd topics. Knowing that, Ashley also curses more than she ever has on this podcast. Proceed with caution!REFERENCESChobits is available in English from Kodansha ComicsThis episode is really just an advertisement for the podcasts CLAMPcast in Wonderland and Hot MoneyOther CLAMP series mentionedAngelic LayerMagic Knight RayearthCardcaptor SakuraOther series mentionedFruits BasketNarutoAbsolute BoyfriendMarmalade BoyBattlebots stuffJamison Go/SawBlazeTombstoneWitch DoctorSongs/artists mentionedYuri the Only One for Me by LeetStreet BoysOxytocin by Billie EilishSnow (Hey Oh) by Red Hot Chili PeppersLil Nas XHatsune MikuComputer stuff mentionedBBS (Bulletin Board System)DefraggingYouTube AI algorithm failuresTricking the Twitter/Microsoft chatbotThis ex-Google AI idiotThe Most Human HumanThree Laws of RoboticsOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USAsher on Archive of Our Own: @dasheryShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley's Tales of Xillia fanfic: Well Suited

This episode discusses volumes 9–17 of Love Com by Aya Nakahara.We're back with a walkthrough of the highs and lows of the second half of Love Com, where we no longer see height. Height means nothing when it comes to true love. (Or... does it?) Ashley and Loyola discuss the appearance of Kohori, how Otani and Risa broke up (!!) then got to back together (!!!) and slept together (!!!!) — but no not in that way, they haven't even kissed four times in a row yet (?!?!). We have one of the most heated shipping corners on this podcast so far, where Ashley insists that Haruka and Seiko are a couple and Otani and Risa might be better off just friends. In conclusion: Nobu's still the best and Risa's brother, Takato, is hot.REFERENCESThe Love Com manga is available digitally from Viz Media's Shojo Beat lineThe Love Com anime is available to stream on CrunchyrollOther episodes Loyola's been on:Arina Tanemura One-ShotsGirl Got GameMeruPuriOther anime/manga mentioned:The Vision of EscaflowneOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USLoyola on Twitter: @loyolarankinShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley's Tales of Xillia fanfic: Well Suited

Discusses volumes 1–8 of Love Com by Aya Nakahara.Ashley and Loyola are here to discuss the first half of the romantic comedy Love Com, aka Lovely Complex, which is the romcom that all other romcoms should aspire to. We gush about how cute Risa and Otani are, the impeccable comedic timing, the emotional levity that hits home, and so much more. Loyola is subjected to Ashley making her take the quizzes at the end of volume 8, to hilarious results.REFERENCESThe Love Com manga is available digitally from Viz Media's Shojo Beat lineThe Love Com anime is available to stream on CrunchyrollOther episodes Loyola's been on: Arina Tanemura One-ShotsGirl Got GameMeruPuriOther anime/manga mentioned:Waiting for SpringAttack on TitanThe Vision of EscaflowneOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USLoyola on Twitter: @loyolarankinShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley's Tales of Xillia fanfic: Well Suited

Discusses all 9 volumes of The Story of Saiunkoku, written by  Sai Yukino and illustrated by Kairi Yura.ASHLEY: I'm like, 'I could have been a better person if I'd read [The Story of Saiunkoku] 10 years ago.'DEE: That's how we should have ended the no spoiler section! 'Read this manga, it will change your life.'In this episode, we're going to historical China for a semi-supernatural, extremely feminist manga adaptation of a light novel series. Dee, who makes the Josei Next Door blog and writes/edits for Anime Feminist, joins to discuss why this series never got its time in the spotlight in English like it deserves, why Shurei's journey to fulfilling the seemingly impossible dream she has of becoming a civil servant is one of hope, and how Shurei's dad may just be the best dad in all of anime/manga, despite being a killer. We also, of course, talk about the gaggle of hot men in Shurei's life and her badass boss, Kochou.REFERENCESThe Story of Saiunkoku manga is available from Viz Media's Shojo Beat lineThe only version of the anime that's available legally in English is dubbed and is called Corlourcloud PalaceOther series mentioned:The Apothecary DiariesCulinary Chronicles of the CourtBasaraOuran High School Host ClubFushigi YuugiLoveComAnime Feminist articles mentioned:You Don't Have to Kick Ass to Be Kickass: Shoujo fantasy and the value of the noncombatant heroFire Balls & Ice Rinks: How My Hero Academia reflects inequality in competitive sportsOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USYou can find Dee's writing on Anime Feminist and Josei Next DoorFollow Dee on Twitter: @joseinextdoorShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley's Tales of Xillia fanfic: Well Suited

Wife and husband duo Ashley and Asher are back to talk about the short comedic manga Flower in a Storm. While neither would say they really loved the story of rich-boy Ran going after super-strong Riko, Ashley, at least, thinks it shows lots of promise from the author, and is a funny parody of mid-2000s shojo manga tropes. But the real standouts are the two unrelated short stories that are included.REFERENCESFlower in a Storm is available from Viz Media's Shojo Beat lineThe only other manga out by this author in English is Caste Heaven, a BL manga under a different pen nameOther series mentioned:Snow White with the Red HairWitch Hat AtelierSP BabyTakane and HanaOuran High School Host ClubMaid-Sama!Outro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USAsher on Archive of Our Own: @dasheryShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley's Tales of Xillia fanfic: Well Suited

Covers the entire series of Planet Ladder by Yuri Narushima.Wife and husband duo Ashley and Asher discuss the wild ride that is PLANET LADDER. They're not quite sure what happened, but they both know Bambi is the best. Also, there's a giant chicken. Surely you want to know more?REFERENCESPlanet Ladder is out of print. It was published by TokyoPop, and you can find used copies on places like eBay.Planet Ladder is inspired by The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter.Other series mentioned:The Vision of EscalfowneMarsFushigi YuugiThe Young Master's RevengeShortcake CakeWeathering with YouCharacters mentioned because Planet Ladder characters remind us of themArisa Uotani (Fruits Basket)Helena Saint Tessero (Neo Yokio)Icktidarl (Haruka)We just want to see you turn into a Giant WomanOutro song: "Yuri the Only One for Me" by LeetStreet BoysCONTACT USAsher on Archive of Our Own: @dasheryShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley's Tales of Xillia fanfic: Well Suited

A discussion of volumes 7–12 (the second half) of Shortcake Cake by Suu Morishita.Ashley and Olive are back to process what the heck happened in the back half of Morishita's series. They discuss Rei and Riku's family drama, Riku and Ten and Chiaki's relationship (how is Riku not canonically confirmed bi??), the use of tension in Morishita's works, and much, much more. Because so much happened in these six volumes, and the reader is definitely not prepared for all of them.REFERENCESShortcake Cake is available from Viz Media's Shojo Beat lineA Sign of Affection, Morishita's current work, is being published by KodanshaOther manga mentioned:My Love Mix-Up!Maid-Sama!Ouran High School Host ClubOther artists mentioned:CLAMPArina TanemuraTruck-kunThe 5 Love Languages by Gary ChapmanBridgerton Season 2Jacob and Renesmee from TwilightOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USOlive on Twitter: @allofthemangaOlive writes for But Why Tho?Shojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and Instagram

This episode covers volumes 1–6 of Shorkcake Cake by Suu Morishita (that's the first half).The duo that makes up Suu Morishita burst onto the English manga scene in recent years with Shorkcake Cake and A Sigh of Affection. In this episode, Shojo & Tell host Ashley and manga reviewer Olive discuss what makes SCC a breath of fresh air, from Ten's kind frankness, to Chiaki's dorkiness, to Riku's fumbling sincerity. Then again, there's also Rei, who's been going Goblin Mode since before it was cool. Why??REFERENCESShortcake Cake is available from Viz Media's Shojo Beat lineA Sign of Affection, Morishita's current work, is being published by KodanshaOther manga mentioned:Ao Haru RideDaytime Shooting StarDengeki DaisyPrincess JellyfishFruits BasketSnow White with the Red HairMy Love Mix-Up!BleachHow to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale CarnegieThe 5 Love Languages by Gary ChapmanOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USOlive on Twitter: @allofthemangaOlive writes for But Why Tho?Shojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley on Twitter: @AshMcD00

We discuss all three volumes of After Hours by Yuhta Nishio.Welcome to the club. Emi knows nothing about dance music. Kei is a DJ with manic pixie dream girl energy. Emi gets sucked into Kei's world in this series that's basically a 101 lesson in EDM. "Isn't this a seinen manga?" Yes, yes it is. But Shojo & Tell host Ashley has a soft spot for these lesbian DJs, so we're covering it anyway! Ashley and her husband, Asher, discuss the particular moment in music time the series is in response to, how relatable Emi's millennial struggle is, the rosy portrayal of technology and the club scene we get, and more. Let's vibe.REFERENCESAfter Hours is available from Viz Media in EnglishAshley's been reading Tim: The Official Biography of Avicii, which provides a great history of the scene After Hours is in response to (and also, it's sad :( RIP Tim)Take a look at the top 100 DJs in the world throughout the years on DJMag. You will see a lack of women.Asher keeps raving about One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston, no matter what the discussionOther series mentioned:Dimension WChobitsDaytime Shooting StarNonstandard/specific tech mentioned:Google GlassApple AirTagSongs/artists mentioned in episode but not in the manga:DJ SumirockAviciideadmau5Calvin HarrisSkrillexSwedish House MafiaThe Chainsmokers"I Took a Pill in Ibiza" [Seeb Remix] by Mike PosnerLil Dicky"Save Tonight" by Eagle-Eye Cherry"Save Me, San Francisco" by TrainSongs/artists mentioned in the manga (at least, the ones we know are real):"Music Sounds Better With You" by StardustDaft Punk"We Are Your Friends (Justice Vs Simian)""Lucky Star" by Basement Jaxx"Local Distance"RytmeklubbenPa's Lam SystemIglooghostDJ WildpartyDuckySlugabedGRRLFemale DJs Ashley likes:RezzBuddygrrlChantel JeffriesHavana BrownJuicy MKrewellaNERVORebecca & FionaThe Jane DozeCool EDM/electronic-y songs/artists Ashley is forever sad don't get enough attention:Dave Edwards"Slow Down" by BeatauCueThe Naked and FamousBroke for Free"OMG" by Gryffin ft. Carly Rae Jepsen is a god-tier level song, it is a CRIME that it was not played on mainstream radioHujjeThe KnocksI'm sure there are 50 million things I'm forgetting but you get the pictureOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USAsher on Archive of Our Own: @dasheryAsher on Twitter:  @asherdasheryShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley on Twitter: @AshMcD00

Covers volumes 10–18 of Takane and Hana by Yuki Shiwasu (that's the second half of the series).Takane is 27. Hana is 17. They're arranged marriage partners, and they're finally read to admit that they're in love. Shojo & Tell host Ashley and librarian Kelly are back to discuss how this age-gap romance wrapped up its story with a blissfully minimal amount of squick but still a high amount of disappointment. That's what the drama was between Takane and his mom and the whole Takaba corporation? Takane and Hana have to get married right now? Hana ends up just as a housewife? But we did get something great in the end: a possible OT3 with Yukari, Kirigasaki, and Rino.REFERENCESTakane and Hana is available from Viz Media's Shojo Beat lineKelly used to host a podcast called One Panel LaterKelly has been on to discuss House of the Sun and Waiting for SpringThere are some Maid-Sama vibes in Shiwasu's seriesOther manga mentions:Tokyo GhoulDemon SlayerNarutoA Silent VoicePrincess JellyfishFullmetal AlchemistKelly said she got Breaking Dawn vibes from this endingAren't we all hikikomori now?Outro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USKelly on Twitter: @kellyquteShe says her Twitter is now a danmei/MXTX fan accountShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley on Twitter: @AshMcD00

Covers volumes 1–9 of Takane and Hana by Yuki Shiwasu.Hana is a perfectly average high school girl. Takane is a 26-year-old scion of a conglomerate. Together, they are arranged marriage partners (but they're definitely not dating!!). Kelly returns once again to talk about an age-gap romance — one that both she and Ashley are highly positive on. In this episode about the first half of the series, Kelly and Ashley try very, very hard to articulate how the series never (well, almost never, anyway) enters squick territory, talk about the wide cast of characters (Rino is great! Also, why is Rino here??), and discuss the funniest parts of the series. We promise, it's worth giving this hilarious contemporary a chance!REFERENCESTakane and Hana is available from Viz Media's Shojo Beat lineKelly used to host a podcast called One Panel LaterKelly has been on to discuss House of the Sun and Waiting for SpringThere are some Maid-Sama vibes in Shiwasu's seriesYuki looks like Hitomi from EscaflowneNicola looks like a combo of the priest from Yona of the Dawn and Tamaki from Ouran High School Host ClubTerrace House: Aloha StateSuicide of Terrace House resident Hana KimuraOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USKelly on Twitter: @kellyquteShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley on Twitter: @AshMcD00

Covers all 10 volumes plus the 10th anniversary side stories of The Rose of Versailles by Riyoko Ikeda (that's the five omnibus volumes released by Udon!)It's hard to overstate how significant The Rose of Versailles is to the history of shojo manga and beyond. In this episode about Riyoko Ikeda's masterpiece, Erica Friedman, the editor of the English edition of the series, details the legacy of Oscar François de Jarjayes, the ultimate girl prince. Erica answers listener questions about the localization, plus she and Ashley dive into the series' queerness (despite not being about gender or sexuality), how historically accurate it is to the events of the French Revolution (immensely), and much more. We hope you're as delighted as we are to finally be able to read this iconic series legally, in gorgeous English editions.REFERENCESThe Rose of Versailles manga is available physically in omnibuses from Udon EntertainmentThe Rose of Versailles anime is available from Discotek. (But you have to watch the Dear Brother anime first.)Ikeda is part of the legendary Magnificent 49ers group of manga artists Erica's book, By Your Side, will be coming out in 2022. It's about the history of yuri manga.Other great folks who worked on the English edition of The Rose of Versailles:Erik Ko (head of Udon)Mari Morimoto (translator)Jocelyne Allen (translator)The first Girl Prince was Sapphire in Osamu Tezuka's Princess Knight (available in English from Kodansha)Erica's equation on manga legends: If Osamu Tezuka is the god of manga, then Riyoko Ikeda is the goddess of manga, and Go Nagai is the creepy uncleNow you know why Sarasa is always saying she wants to play Oscar in Kageki Shojo!!The Rose of Versailles is important to the Takarazuka RevueLegacy of girl princes:Utena in Revolutionary Girl UtenaHaruka Tenou from Sailor MoonRedacted letters between Marie-Antoinette and Axel von Fersen were recently decodedHistorian Evelyn Farr has a great video on Marie-Antoinette and Fersen One of the Lulu stories is based off Elizabeth BáthoryMiscellaneous mentions:ALA list of great graphic novels for teensThe Heart of ThomasFlower StoriesRevue StarlightBabylon 5 rebootOther Ikeda work: ClaudineMangasplaining is another good manga podcastOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USErica's Yuricon site: https://okazu.yuricon.com/Erica on Twitter: @OkazuYuriShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley on Twitter: @AshMcD00

Covers both volumes of SP Baby by Maki Enjoji.We're back with another Enjoji title! This time, it's a classic bodyguard romance, full of tragic backstories and sexual harassment. Tamaki joins the Security Police for Kagetora, the prime minster's nephew, against her better judgment (she really needs this job) and of course, romance ensues whether the heroine wants it or not. Ashley and Asher discuss how Tamaki's extreme form of accountability is actually refreshing, while Kagetora manages to avoid landing at the very bottom of the barrel for romantic heroes. We've seen worse. We've also seen way better.REFERENCESSP Baby is available from Viz MediaListen to our House of the Sun episodesListen to our Princess Jellyfish episodesKagetora is Anti-Everything, but he loves TamakiRemember The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo? Good times....Outro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USAsher on Archive of Our Own: @dasheryAsher on Twitter:  @asherdasheryShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley on Twitter: @AshMcD00

Covers all 7 volumes of An Incurable Case of Love by Maki Enjoji.We're back with a cute josei series! It's like Grey's Anatomy, but with a more contained cast and a lot more sexual harassment from the patients. Sakura has had a crush on Dr. Tendo since she saw him save a stranger in the streets, but when they finally start working together, he's not exactly the kindly doctor she imagined him to be. Shojo & Tell host Ashley is joined by Alex Yates of The Yona Podcast to talk about this blossoming workplace romance, boundary setting in relationships, and more. How 'bout that turn with Nice Guy Nishi??REFERENCESAn Incurable Case of Love is available from Viz MediaAlex hosts The Yona Podcast, a Yona of the Dawn podcastYona of the Dawn is available from Viz MediaOther works from Maki Enjoji:Happy Marriage?!SP BabyOther series mentioned:Maid-Sama!NanaMisc. thingsGrey's AnatomyEllen  PompeoAnime News Network: Do We Still Need Shonen/Shojo Labels?Women-only passenger cars in JapanWhich Grey's Anatomy Character Are You? [Buzzfeed Quiz]Outro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USThe Yona Podcast on Twitter: @theyonapodThe Yona Podcast on Tumblr: theyonapodcastShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramHost Ashley on Twitter: @AshMcD00

Covers volumes 16–23 of Hana-Kimi by Hisaya Nakajo.Welcome back for the final Hana-Kimi episode! The Ashleys are back to discuss how wild this ride has been: The strange results of the final character poll, what the series says about gender, how it compares to other gender-bending series, and of course, finally, the ships. Also: Can you believe this manga kept up the premise of Mizuki's gender being a secret the ENTIRE TIME? We just don't get manga like this anymore! REFERENCESHana-Kimi is available from Viz MediaThis series is the precursor to OuranOther manga mentioned:Tokyo BabylonGirl Got GameBasaraNot Your IdolPrincess JellyfishFruits BasketKimi ni TodokeOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USAshley Hawkins' website: Manga LibrarianAshley Hawkins' Twitter:  @manga_librarianShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramHost Ashley on Twitter: @AshMcD00

Welcome back to Osaka High and the middle third of Hana-Kimi. Shojo and Tell host Ashley is joined by Manga Librarian Ashley to talk about all the hijinks that ensued here. What's the tone? Gil's still here?! How can Mizuki assume Sano doesn't know she's a girl when she sleeps with him in the same bed half the nights and she's got her boobs pressed up against him? Mizuki grew up in Berkeley, California? You know what, that makes a lot of sense, actually...REFERENCESHana-Kimi is available from Viz MediaThis series is the precursor to OuranEveryone should watch The Vision of EscaflowneTatsuki from Fushigi Yugi is like NakatsuOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USAshley Hawkins' website: Manga LibrarianAshley Hawkins' Twitter:  @manga_librarianShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramHost Ashley on Twitter: @AshMcD00

Covers volumes 1–8 of Hana-Kimi by Hisaya Nakajo.We're throwing back and throwing down with a big-time, gender-bending shojo classic: Hana-Kimi, aka, the precursor to Ouran High School Host Club. Mizuki Ashiya moves all the way from America to Japan, in high school, without express permission from her parents, just to be with her favorite high-jumper, Izumi Sano, a boy she's never met. Even better: She has to disguise that she's a girl so she can attend Sano's all-boys school. Who approved this premise? We don't know, but we do know it is full of good boys. Come listen if you love hijinks and dogs and stereotypes about gender (and America, too).REFERENCESHana-Kimi is available from Viz MediaThis series is the precursor to OuranOther series referenced:NarutoMy Hero AcademiaFruits BasketBoys Run the RiotIt would be nice if Hana-Kimi was retranslated by transgender translators like Rachel Thorn“Queering” Heteronormativity: Biological essentialism in genderbending manga discusses Hana-Kimi a lot [Anime Feminist article]Back when Titanic premiered, people in Tokyo were meh about itFree Online Gender QuizOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USAshley Hawkins' website: Manga LibrarianAshley Hawkins' Twitter:  @manga_librarianShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramHost Ashley on Twitter: @AshMcD00

Covers all of RG Veda by CLAMP.This hyper-violent fantasy series was CLAMP's first traditionally published work — and it shows. Shojo & Tell host Ashley and her boytoy Asher talk about the highs and lows of this high-concept series about destiny and the power of love (what else is new?). All good boys are praised, and Yasha is not on the list.REFERENCESRG Veda is available from Dark HorseListen to Clampcast's more in-depth RG Veda episodes!Religious texts mentioned:Rig VedaMahabharataRamayanaOther CLAMP series mentioned:Magic Knight RayearthCardcaptor SakuraXTokyo BabylonTsubasaxxxHolicOther media mentioned:DigimonNoragamiAir GearRanma 1/2The Vision of EscaflowneHana-KimiOctopath TravelerFinal Fantasy XVHavenHomestuckOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USAsher on Archive of Our Own: @dasheryAsher on Twitter:  @asherdasheryShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley on Twitter: @AshMcD00

Covers all of Earthian by Yun Kouga.Anime Feminist writer Vrai Kaiser joins Shojo & Tell host Ashley to discuss this late 1980s boys' love hot mess of a manga. Earthian starts off as a sort of mashup between Pet Shop of Horrors and The Good Place and ends somewhere way, way off from that. Vrai and Ashley discuss all the religion that is (and isn't) happening with the Catholicsploitation, how sweet Chihaya and Kagetsuya's relationship actually is, how many of the ideas the series presents (but doesn't follow through with) are actually still startlingly relevant, and tons more (probably problematic) topics. The journey is surprising and delightful and horrifying all at the same time.REFERENCESYou can buy Earthian digitally from DMP (Yeah..... Yeah)Other Yun Kouga series mentioned:LovelessRiddle Story of Devil (Akuma no Riddle)Other manga series / creators mentioned:Pet Shop of HorrorsTokyo BabylonFakeBanana FishAngel Sanctuary // Kaori YukiNeon Genesis EvangelionMarsTramps Like UsVatican Miracle ExaminerMobile Suit Gundam 00Fushigi Yugi // Yuu WataseHeart of Thomas // Moto HagioKaze to Ki no UtaGravitationThe Tyrant Falls in LoveDevilmanWishJoJo's Bizarre AdventureLand of the LustrousMari OkadaKentaro MiuraJun MochizukiMisc.  references:The Good PlaceBechdel TestMetatronSeifukuShinzo AbeBeard (slang)Teenage Mutant Ninja TurtlesTower of BabelThe Three Laws of RoboticsSmallvilleCaitlin, Mercedez, and Vrai are all writers at Anime FeministOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USVrai on Twitter: @WriterVraiVrai on Anime FeministVrai's podcast,  Trash and TreasuresShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley on Twitter: @AshMcD00

Covers volumes 8–14 of Waiting for Spring by Anashin.We’re back to talk about the second half of Waiting for Spring, aka, Girly Kuroko's Basketball. Kelly and Ashley discuss how Towa and Aya are in a philosophical fight over what strength is, how well-handled Ryuji and Nana's relationship is, and just what about Waiting for Spring makes it so special. Also a lot of complaining about Aya. He's 17. He doesn't know anything!Waiting for Spring is available from Kodansha.Kelly used to have a podcast called One Panel Later and was on for the House of the Sun episodesOther series mentioned:NarutoOne PieceBlue PeriodKuroko's BasketballOuran High School Host ClubSkip BeatDaytime Shooting StarAo Haru RideKimi ni TodokeOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USKelly on Twitter: @kellyquteKelly’s work on the defunct Barnes & Noble Sci-Fi and Fantasy blogShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley on Twitter: @AshMcD00

Covers volumes 1–7 of Waiting for Spring by Anashin.The wait is finally over! We're FINALLY talking about the basketball boys! Waiting for Spring is one of the most wholesome shojo series around and will have you smiling like a fool. Librarian Kelly and Shojo & Tell host Ashley discuss why Towa is the best, why Aya does not deserve to be in second place in the character poll (rude to Mitsuki and Ryuji), how you shouldn't write real-people fanfiction, and much more. It's basically Kuroko's Basketball, but shojo. What more could you want? Seiryo, fight!REFERENCESWaiting for Spring is available from Kodansha.Sara Linsley is the letterer of the series and a previous podcast guest!Kelly used to have a podcast called One Panel Later and was on for the House of the Sun episodesOther series mentioned:Kimi ni TodokeMy Hero AcademiaDemon SlayerNatsume's Book of FriendsHaikyu!!Princess JellyfishA Silent VoiceJapanese terms mentioned:FujoshiMeganeAfter by  Anna Todd  is Harry Styles real-people fanfic that was turned into a movie. We say HELL NO to this.Outro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USKelly on Twitter: @kellyquteKelly’s work on the defunct Barnes & Noble Sci-Fi and Fantasy blogShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley on Twitter: @AshMcD00

Covers volumes 8–13 of Ao Haru Ride by Io Sakisaka.One year after recording about the first half of Ao Haru Ride, we’re back on the bandwagon to talk about the ending. Shojo Beat Senior Editor Nancy and Shojo & Tell host Ashley talk about every single confession and rejection scene, consistently compare the series to WE WERE THERE, bring up one too many times that [SPOILERS] it’s annoying that Kou was hit by a car, and so much more. Like, get out of here, Kikuchi. Kou and Futaba forever.REFERENCESYou can find our first Ao Haru Ride episode hereAo Haru Ride is available from Viz Media's Shojo Beat lineOther works Nancy has edited:Vampire KnightIdol DreamsMaison Ikkoku Collector's EditionMy Love Mix-Up!Other Io Sakisaka works: Strobe Edge, Love Me, Love Me NotAo Haru Ride pays homage to We Were ThereOther manga mentioned:HorimiyaCLAMPMy Love Story!!Outro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USNancy runs the Shojo Beat Twitter: @shojobeatYou can ask questions and make licensing requests on Shojo Beat's Tumblr: officialshojobeatShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley on Twitter: @AshMcD00The next episode will be about volumes 1 –7 of Waiting for Spring by Anashin.

Covers all the short stories in Revolutionary Girl Utena: After the Revolution by Chiho SaitoFor the 20th anniversary of Revolutionary Girl Utena, we were gifted this volume of short stories (one for Touga and Saionji, another for Juri and Shiori, the final for Miki and Kozue) that function as a "sequel" of sorts to the Utena anime (not the manga). Anime scholar Rose Bridges comes back on the Shojo & Tell to talk about Utena without Utena (sort of?). Rose and Ashley debate which story of the three is the strongest, what it means for there to have been a revolution if the characters haven't really changed, and why the heck Nanami keeps getting so slighted.REFERENCESUtena: After the Revolution is available from Viz MediaYou can read Rose's review of the manga on Anime News Network herePick up a copy of Rose's book about the music of Cowboy BebopRose has an article coming out in MechademiaOhtori.nu is a great Utena resourceReferences:Legend of Galactic HeroesSarazanmaiOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USFollow Rose on Twitter @composeroseFollow the podcast on Twitter, Instagram, or TumblrFollow Ashley on Twitter @AshMcD00If you have any comments or questions, you can email shojoandtell@gmail.com

Covers all 10 volumes of the original Pet Shop of Horrors series by Matsuri Akino.Welcome to Count D's pet shop, where you can find the rarest pets that will make your dreams come true — and might just murder you, too. Horror fan, Yen Press employee, and Manga Machination's co-host Morgana Santilli explains why this wish shop fantasyland appealed to her so much growing up, and what makes Akino's work so special. Morgana and Shojo & Tell host Ashley also discuss: What is Count D? Is he good, is he bad, is he amoral? What exactly is going down with him and Leon, anyway? There's a lot to unpack here, but the answer to all questions about favorites (characters, stories, pets) is Leon's brother, Chris. He's such a good boy!REFERENCESUnfortunately, Pet Shop of Horrors is out of print. You can find used copies on Thriftbooks and eBay (though they can be pricey).Series similar to Pet Shop of Horrors:Nightmare InspectorYokai Rental ShopPhantom Tales of NightxxxHolicOther media mentioned:Tomie by Junji ItoFruits BasketBleachSailor MoonAfter School NightmareYu Yu HakushoClaudineRose of VersaillesBanana FishHaruka: Beyond the Stream of TimeLegal DrugGravitationFushigi Yugi: Genbu KaidenDevilman CrybabyOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USMorgana on Twitter: @MorganaRhalinaMorgana's website: Manga MavenMorgana's manga podcast: Manga MachinationsShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley on Twitter: @AshMcD00

Covers all of Tokyo Mew Mew and Tokyo Mew Mew a la Mode Reiko Yoshida and Mia Ikumi.In the early 2000s, this series about a team of five young girls infused with the DNA of rare animals fighting aliens bent on reclaiming the Earth became a phenomenon. Tokyo Mew Mew is supposed to get a new anime adaptation in the year 2021, so we decided to read the original magical girl series and its sequel.  Mew Mew superfan Mercedez Clewis expounds on why the series left such a lasting impact on her and the magical girl genre in general. Mercedez and Shojo & Tell host Ashley also discuss their favorite Mews, what is and isn't a magical girl series, how the aliens were kinda right though, how they prefer to eat strawberries, and so much more in this jam-packed episode.REFERENCESTokyo Mew Mew and Tokyo Mew Mew a la Mode  are available from Kodansha Comics.There are two new sequel series to Tokyo Mew Mew: 2020 Re-Turn and Tokyo Mew Mew Au Lait (not Óle!!!)Other series/creators/characters mentioned:The Vision of EscaflowneCardcaptor SakuraSailor MoonMadoka MagicaPhantom Thief JeanneFushigi Yugi: Genbu KaidenRevolutionary Girl UtenaKill la KillAir GearYuu WataseGen UrobuchiIchigo Kurosaki (Bleach)Indigenous peoples of Japan:AinuOkinawanOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USMercedez on Twitter: @pixelatedlensesMercedez's work on: Anime Feminist, But Why Tho?Shojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley on Twitter: @AshMcD00

A discussion about the manga adaptation of Socrates in Love by Kyoichi Katayama and Kazumi KazuiGet ready to cry at this one-volume melodrama about a teenage couple torn apart by a tragedy. Socrates in Love follows Sakutaro and Aki as they go from being friends to lovers, but have their happiness cut short through illness. Chaplain-in-training Asher Sofman and Shojo & Tell host Ashley discuss how love and death are intertwined, how people grapple with suffering and illness, and other such fun, cheery topics. Ashley makes extensive comparisons between Socrates in Love and Nicholas Sparks' A Walk to Remember, since they have similar plots and Sparks' novel is traditionally one of Ashley's favorite books. (Yes yes, we know.)REFERENCESSocrates in Love is currently out of print in English, but used copies can be easily found online.A Walk to Remember by Nicholas Sparks contains many of the same plot elements as Socrates in Love.That time Nicholas Sparks compared himself to Ernest Hemingway.A Farewell to Arms and The Hunger Games round out Ashley's traditional list of top three books.Manga mentioned:All My Darling DaughtersWaiting for SpringAo Haru RideTokyo Mew MewPet Shop of HorrorsOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by Danosongs"Never stop digivolving" is the tagline of Podigious! A Digimon Podcast, which Asher and Ashley used to cohostCONTACT USAsher on Twitter: @asherdasheryShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley on Twitter: @AshMcD00Next episode will be about Tokyo Mew Mew by Mia Ikumi and Reiko Yoshida

Covers All My Darling Daughters by Fumi YoshinagaThis one-volume manga about three generations of women in a family is masterfully told and extremely relatable. Shojo & Tell host Ashley and boytoy Asher discuss their favorite stories from this collection of five, dwell on the theme of love being a form of discrimination, and fret about how to avoid some of these parenting pitfalls when raising children.A content warning for the second story: There's an age-gap romance between a teacher and a student, and it escalates immediately.REFERENCESAll My Darling Daughters is available from Viz MediaFumi Yoshinaga is known for Ooku: The Inner ChambersOther media mentions:The Legend of KorraClaudineThe Rose of VersaillesPrincess TutuUtena: After the RevolutionAo Haru RideThermostat theory of politicsOutro song: "The Streatham Hill Gods" by DanosongsCONTACT USAsher on Twitter: @asherdasheryShojo & Tell on Twitter, Tumblr, and InstagramAshley on Twitter: @AshMcD00