Podcasts about Top Shelf Productions

Two hundred and ninety-nine episodes ago, we could not have possibly imagined George Takei appearing on the podcast. Some version of the actor has hung in our imaginations for most of our lives, and we spent many days of our early marriage obsessing over Star Trek, the original series, and its subsequent films. Thankfully, through this beautiful medium called comic books, our paths have crossed, and we get to celebrate our three-hundredth episode with one of our creative and cultural heroes. Takei's latest graphic novel, It Rhymes With Takei, reunites him with the same creative team behind They Called Us Enemy: artist Harmony Becker and writers Steven Scott and Justin Eisinger. Together, they tell the rest of Takei's story, which includes his time in the Japanese American internment camps during World War II. It Rhymes With Takei explores the many lessons George Takei learned from that experience, how it shaped his activism, and gave him the courage to battle through the numerous other injustices he would face and fight for and alongside others. The word "dystopia" gets thrown around a lot these days. It's certainly a go-to for us, and when you look outside your window or scroll through your phone, it's an easy, seemingly apt descriptor. Star Trek has started to feel like fantasy, not science fiction. However, George Takei encourages us to hang onto utopian possibilities. He asks us to accept the inevitability of change but strive toward a brighter, better future. As the news continuously fills us with dread, we needed this conversation with George Takei, and we're grateful to share it with you, beautiful comic book friends. Thank you for spending your time with us over these three hundred (or so) episodes. Your presence gets us to our recording table every week, and you've given new meaning to our lives. It Rhymes With Takei is out now from Top Shelf Productions. Get it wherever rad comics are found. Follow George Takei on Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky, and his Website. This Week's Sponsor We're sponsored by 2000 AD, the greatest comic you're not reading! Within its pages is a whole universe of characters, from Judge Dredd and Strontium Dog to Rogue Trooper, Shakara, Halo Jones, and the poor sods slogging across the Cursed Earth in The Helltrekkers. Get a print subscription at your door every week - and the first issue is free! Or subscribe digitally, get free back issues, and download DRM-free copies of each issue for just $9 a month. That's 128 pages of incredible monthly comics for less than $10. Other Relevant Links to This Week's Episode: Join Comic Book Club in Person CBCC's Comic Shop Road Trip Patreon Exclusive: Saga of the Swamp Thing Book Club Support Your Local Comic Shop Free Patreon Series Final Round of Plugs (PHEW): Support the Podcast by Joining OUR PATREON COMMUNITY. The Comic Book Couples Counseling TeePublic Merch Page. Don't forget to grab your tickets for our June 29th Alamo Drafthouse Winchester screening of James Gunn's THE SUICIDE SQUAD, co-sponsored by Four Color Fantasies. And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook, on Instagram, and on Bluesky @CBCCPodcast, and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren. Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-star Review on Apple Podcasts. Continue your conversation with CBCC by hopping over to our website, where we have reviews, essays, and numerous interviews with comic book creators. Podcast logo by Jesse Lonergan and Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou.

Jimmy attended the Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art (MoCCA) Festival over the weekend. He got 5 interviews overall. In this episode, you'll hear his chat with Kazimir Lee. They talked about Kazimir's upcoming debut graphic novel LOW ORBIT, Asian and queer representation, fluidity of love, familial relations and more. This concludes our MoCCA coverage! Go back and check out the other interviews Jimmy did if you missed. And be sure to attend MoCCA next year if you're able!  Also, get a hold of us! Thanks for listening!

Jimmy attended the Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art (MoCCA) Festival over the weekend. He got 5 interviews overall. In this episode, you'll hear his chat with Dani Diaz. They talked about Dani's debut graphic novel DREAMOVER, memories of young love, dreams, how they might be related and more. One last interview to come from MoCCA with Kazimir Lee.  Also, get a hold of us! Thanks for listening!

Hang out with Al Mega as he chats with jaw-dropping YA graphic novelist, rising star, writer Ricky Lima. Tune in to learn all about is new book from Top Shelf Productions, Undergrowth and more…..   Undergrowth hits bookstores and  comic shops Sept. 4th and is now available for preorder from Top Shelf, Indigo, and Amazon. Perfect for fans of Neon Genesis Evangelion, Punch Up! and First Test.   To learn more about Ricky Lima, check out https://limepressonline.com/ or give him a follow on Instagram. And to learn more about Daniele Aquilani follow him on Instagram. Follow Ricky on Social Media at: @KingKRule Press by DHPR: DontHidePR.com Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Episode 456 in an unlimited series! Host: Al Mega Follow on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook): @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders   Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: https://www.youtube.com/c/comiccrusadersworld Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/comiccrusaders Visit the official  Comic Crusaders  Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL  Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Streamyard is the platform of choice used by  Comic Crusaders and The Undercover Capes  Podcast Network to stream! Check out their premium plans for this amazing and versatile tool, sign up now: https://bit.ly/ComicCrusadersStreamyard * Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

Ricky Lima is a writer who has been publishing his own comics for years through his website, Limepressonline.com. This week sees the debut of his first collaboration with a major publisher, Top Shelf Productions! Undergrowth tells the story of dystopian future where giant alien mecha are causing an environmental catastrophe. In response, the spirit of […]

Once upon a time, cartoonist JP Ahonen fell out of love with his art. He'd reached a wall. It was burnout. He'd lost the joy found in creation. Then, he just started to doodle, and an Inktober project became a runaway success. Belzebubs, the saga of a black metal family, significantly inspired by Calvin and Hobbes, sprung from his brain, and there is no stuffing it back in. These odd little outsiders reignited something inside Ahonen, but more importantly, Belzebubs ignited something in its readers. The audience appeared quickly and grew even faster. The webcomic has crossed over into other mediums and will soon be an animated series. Top Shelf Productions published two beautifully bound hardcovers, and we've latched onto them, proclaiming ourselves as rabid groupies. Every San Diego Comic-Con introduces us to some new passion; this year, it's Belzebubs. After devouring the two hardcovers, inside the Hilton Bayfront, we eagerly chatted with JP Ahonen about his Belzebubs origins. We discuss how these characters came to him at a critical moment in his life and taught him to love comics again. And then, they took on a life of their own. Now, it's your turn to join the cult. Follow JP Ahonen on Instagram and his Website. Other Relevant Links: CBCC at SDCC 2024: Hall H with Bryan Young (Patreon Exclusive) CBCC at SDCC 2024: Gail Simone CBCC at SDCC 2024: Jason Aaron on TMNT #1 CBCC at SDCC 2024: Wes Craig on Kaya CBCC at SDCC 2024: Joey Esposito and Sean Von Gorman on The Pedestrian CBCC at SDCC 2024: Joshua Williamson, Tom King, and Daniel Sampere Go All In CBCC at SDCC 2024: Juni Ba on TMNT: Nightwatcher #1 CBCC at SDCC 2024: Ram V on The New Gods CBCC at SDCC 2024: Mark Waid and Mariko Tamaki CBCC at SDCC 2024: James Tynion IV CBCC on Pat Chat - SDCC Hangover CBCC on Bif! Bam! Pow! Brad on Missing Frames, Talking Godzilla Final Round of Plugs (PHEW): Support the Podcast by Joining OUR PATREON COMMUNITY Join us at the Alamo Drafthouse in Winchester, Virginia, on 9/21 at 4:00 PM for Batman Forever, co-sponsored by Four Color Fantasies. Watch the latest episode of The B&B Show, where Brad and Bryan Review the Hottest Cinematic Releases. And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook, on Instagram, and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast, and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren. Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-star Review on Apple Podcasts. Continue your conversation with CBCC by hopping over to our website, where we have reviews, essays, and numerous interviews with comic book creators. Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke, podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan.

You get 2 interviews in this San Diego Comic Con special! First up, Jimmy chats with Finnish cartoonist JP Ahonen about his hit comic BEZELBUBS, black metal, tattoos and more. He also talks with writer Joey Esposito and artist Sean Von Gorman about their new comic THE PEDESTRIAN, where the idea came from, jaywalking and more. Please come back to hear all of the SDCC coverage over the next month.  Also, get a hold of us!   Thanks for listening!

I think these 2 creators may be the first siblings we've had on the podcast, but more than that, they lived in DELCO for a time! I couldn't be happier to chat with Maria Hoey and Peter Hoey about In Perpetuity, their most recent graphic novel published by Top Shelf Productions. In Perpetuity is a retelling of the Orpheus myth set in a timeless Los Angeles with very strong classic noir vibes. I absolutely loved this (and not just because the main character is named Jim, I swear). This was such a fun chat, I loved learning about their approach to comics and art, and hearing about their influences. After listening, be sure to check out their website and more great comics at Coin-Op Books. In Perpetuity is out now, it's a great twist on this story, and absolutely gorgeous linework and colors.   From the publisher In perpetuity, the Afterlife is just as the ancient Greeks imagined: an endless twilight where time stands still and shades have nowhere to go. For Jim, that means long shifts at a gas station, with only crossword puzzles and cigarettes to break the tedium. One day, two criminal shades from Jim's past show up at the gas station and his existence takes a dangerous turn. They've tracked him down for something he didn't know he had: the ability to cross back into the living world. It's a rare gift, and they intend to exploit it. Just as Jim crosses back into sunny California, he meets Olivia dying on an Echo Park sidewalk… pulling her back from the edge of death and striking a connection that will run deeper than either can imagine. Jim weaves back and forth between the Afterlife and Los Angeles, but the more he tries to distance himself and Olivia from the criminals' plot, the deeper they're pulled in. What follows is a web of deceit and murder that reaches across A.L. and L.A., and ultimately to Hades himself. With a heady blend of film noir and Greek mythology, In Perpetuity reveals both the human capacity for self-deception and the endurance of love. Our episode sponsors After the Realm Don't miss Eisner and Harvey award winning comics creator Michael Avon Oeming's newest crowdfunding project After The Realm. With over 300 pages of material and 22 new pages of story, this graphic novel collects issues 1-5 of this realm trotting dystopian fantasy adventure that follows young ranger Oona Lightfoot's travels and travails trying to find her best friend as the nine realms are torn asunder.  Arkenforge Play TTRPG games? Make sure to check out our partner Arkenforge. They have everything you need to make your TTRPG more fun and immersive, allowing you to build, play, and export animated maps including in person fog of war capability that let's your players interact with maps as the adventure unfolds while you, the DM get the full picture. Use the discount code YETI5 to get $5 off your order. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Here is the latest chat ready for the Marquee after it has had its Sneak Peek time in the speakeasy. Chris and I go all over the board, including into the Woo. Christopher Knowles began his career in 1996, writing and drawing comics, particularly, Halo, an Angel's Story, a mini-series published by Sirius Entertainment, and contributing to the art in a graphic novel based on the Saturday Night Live cartoon The X Presidents. He was also the editor of the Top Shelf Productions magazine Comic Book Artist from 2000–2004 and has written articles for publications such as The Jack Kirby Collector and sites like Comic Book Resources. Knowles wrote a book called Our Gods Wear Spandex: The Secret History of Comic Book Heroes (2007), which won an Eagle Award for "Favourite Comics-Related Book". He co-authored a book published in 2008 about The X-Files TV series called The Complete X-Files: Behind the Series, the Myths, and the Movies. In October 2010, Viva Editions published his latest book, The Secret History of Rock 'n' Roll, which Voice of America says presents rock and roll as having its roots "in the mystery cults of the ancient world", then "follows the evolution of rock 'n' roll from an expression of youthful rebellion to a symbol of American culture." Since November 2007 Knowles has been blogging on topics related to his books *Recorded on the 26th of Feb 2024 Chris's Website: https://secretsun.blogspot.com Also, come join the new website where we have a forum and a shop: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thecosmicsalon.com/community/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Tips are most welcome: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.buymeacoffee.com/niish369⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ I want to thank the producers of this show: Meredith Walako (Scheduling, bookings, and social media manager). Jennifer (the) Bruce. Susan Jenkins. Rod Knight. LynnRadius. Kerry Hoyal. Denyse Bissel. Sarah Etta. Heather. Susan Miller. Lizz Radican. Claire Cathcart. Mia Belle. Steven Mercer. Pamela Holdahl. Jake Vanek. WiseNightOwl. Marcey Shapiro. Noël Jeanette. Melanie Poe. Jason Lambson. Neil Macnaughton. Erik Peterson. Mark Boettcher. Kate Kukulkan. Laura Dunn. Lady Babs (moderator of the live-sessions in the speakeasy). Everlong, Niish- --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/niish/support

I adored Wolfpitch and was delighted to get to chat with Balazs Lorinczi about it. Wolfpitch is Balazs' follow-up to the GLAAD Media Award nominated Doughnuts and Doom. Balazs was born in Hungary and now lives in Scotland and I was fascinated to learn about his journey in comics as well as why he loves to combine the supernatural and music. Wolfpitch is published by Top Shelf Productions an imprint of IDW publishing. You can find it at your local comic shop on June 12th. I'm always interested in learning how creators got to where they are today and what has influenced them to make the comics they do. I found Balazs to be open and friendly and funny and I can't wait to read more of his comics.   Here is a synopsis of Wolfpitch: All's fair in love and music when this supernatural all-girl rock band must beat the odds and become the best band in town! Izzy's a bass-playing werewolf. Geraldine's the ghost of an amazing jazz pianist. Delilah's the meanest drummer in town. They'd be the perfect trio to win the Battle of Bands... except Geraldine can't play a solo since she passed away, and Izzy and Delilah are at each other's throats at every opportunity. Can they work through their problems to win the competition, or will they be defeated by Delilah's ex-band and their villainous frontman, Dylan? Sparks will fly, milkshakes will melt, and ears will ring in the latest delicious LGBTQ romp from graphic novelist Balazs Lorinczi.  Our episode sponsors Transphoria Kickstarter Make sure to check out the Kickstarter campaign for Transphoria, a new new 90 page graphic novel that collects 19 new short storeis about trans and non-binary experiences of gender euphoria. Arkenforge Play TTRPG games? Make sure to check out our partner Arkenforge. They have everything you need to make your TTRPG more fun and immersive, allowing you to build, play, and export animated maps including in person fog of war capability that let's your players interact with maps as the adventure unfolds while you, the DM get the full picture. Use the discount code YETI5 to get $5 off your order. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jimmy attended the SI MoCCA Arts Fest (Society of Illustrators Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art) over the weekend along with Producer Joe. In this episode, he talks to Jeff Victor. They chat about his graphic novel YOU WISH, why he loves monsters & magic, his work at Funko, his Evolution series and more. More interviews later this week and next.  Also, get a hold of us! Thanks for listening!

Jimmy attended the SI MoCCA Arts Fest (Society of Illustrators Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art) over the weekend along with Producer Joe. In this episode, he talks to cartoonist and fellow Filipino Kevin Alvir. They talk about his new book LISA CHEESE AND GHOST GUITAR, corporate greed, relating to the themes of the book, music and more. More interviews later this week and next.  Also, get a hold of us! Thanks for listening!

Jimmy attended the SI MoCCA Arts Fest (Society of Illustrators Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art) over the weekend along with Producer Joe. In this episode, he talks to Sofia Warren about her book RADICAL: MY YEAR WITH A SOCIALIST SENATOR. They discuss the book in detail, learning about politics from the inside, just what it means to embed yourself, what her platform would be if she ever ran for office, her work at The New Yorker, teaching and more.  More interviews later this week and next.  Also, get a hold of us! Thanks for listening!

The story of the great George Takei goes beyond his career of Star Trek, into his early beginnings growing up in America during the 1940s. They Called Us Enemy by George Takei, Justin Eisinger, Steven R. Scott with art by Harmony Becker tells the real life experiences Takei lived through during WWII when Japanese Americans were forced into internment camps in the United States during the aftermath of Pearl Harbor until the war was over. With the help of Takei's mother and father, George and his family were able to persevere through this era of traumatic uncertainly that forever changed the lives of thousands of Japanese Americans during one of the harshest times in world history. This part of history is tragically important as to not repeat itself, but to learn the valuable lessons shared in this journey of courage and bravery. This Eisner Award winning graphic novel for Best Reality-Based Work produced by Top Shelf Productions is highly recommended for readers who like nonfiction autobiographic memoirs as well as readers who want to learn about one of the most iconic pop culture leaders to take action outside of the television screen.

Katie and Sally are joined by artist Jenna Cha and writer Lonnie Nadler (The Sickness, Black Stars Above) to discuss From Hell (Alan Moore, writer; Eddie Campbell, artist; Top Shelf Productions 1989-1998). Topics discussed include Night of the Hunter, Hitchcock, Cat Eyed Boy, and much more. Follow Jenna on Instagram: @jangling.jack Follow Lonnie on Instagram: @lonnienadler  Pick up The Sickness from Uncivilized Books: uncivilizedbooks.com/the-sickness  Support the show and get bonus episodes and video content at patreon.com/thicklinespod. Follow us on Instagram @thicklinespod.

We return from New York Comic-Con, bursting with stories and conversations. We've never had a show quite like this one, where every corner revealed some incredible new encounter and discussion. Cartoonist Kevin Alvir was there, sliding his way through artist alley, riding high, after recently launching his new graphic novel Lisa Cheese and Ghost Guitar: Attack of the Snack. Having barely absorbed all that we did, we try to put it on the record in this episode, recapping as much as we could while still teasing future CBCC sessions. We discuss the creators we hobnobbed alongside, the comic book podcasters we finally met in person, and all the weird food we jammed into our bodies. Most importantly, we hang out with Kevin Alvir. Our chat delves into his first-time experience with an editor, how he arrived at his Lisa Cheese and Ghost Guitar aesthetic, and why punk rock feeds a need that concerto piano never will. And, by the way, neither is better or worse than the other. As always, Omnibus, the Digital Comic Store and Reader, sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles available on the app that satisfyingly align with this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to the books. Brad's Referral Lisa's Referral Continue the conversation with Kevin Alvir by following him on Instagram and Twitter. Lisa Cheese and Ghost Guitar is currently available from Top Shelf Productions, wherever fine comic books are sold. You can find your nearest shop here. Other Relevant Links: Kyle Starks Draws Comic Book Couples Counseling "The Awesome Power of Comic Book Podcasts" at NYCC FINAL ROUND OF PLUGS (PHEW): SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY. Join us at the Alamo Drafthouse in Winchester, Virginia on 11/5 at 4:00 PM for our History of Violence screening, co-sponsored by Four Color Fantasies. Don't forget! Watch the latest episode of The B&B Show, where Brad and Bryan Review the Hottest Cinematic Releases. And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook, on Instagram, and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast, and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren. Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-star Review on Apple Podcasts. Continue your conversation with CBCC by hopping over to our website where we have reviews, essays, and numerous interviews with comic book creators. Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke, podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan.

We continue our San Diego Comic Con coverage with Chris Staros and Ghezal Omar. Jimmy talked to Chris at the Top Shelf/IDW booth about all things Top Shelf. They discussed how he founded the company, some of the great books that are coming out, some of the amazing talent that he has worked with, his love of Elvis and more! Jimmy also talked to Ghezal Omar about her comic line at Artillery Network. They chatted about her being the first Afghani-American comic writer, her books including PIMP KILLER, working in film, 90's blockbuster film inspirations, etc. Stay tuned over the next couple of months for more SDCC interviews! Also, get a hold of us! Thanks for listening!

Hang out with Al Mega as he chats with award-winning comic book creator and graphic novelist Rich Koslowski. Tune in to learn all about his latest project from Top Shelf/IDW, F.A.R.M. System & more… Rich Koslowski's Website: https://www.richkoslowski.com/ Rich's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rich.koslowski F.A.R.M. SYSTEM SYNOPSIS: In the Farm System, having an incredible and unique power is only the first step. Guided by an army of agents, managers, and experts, recruits must undergo rigorous psychological evaluations, harassment and sensitivity seminars, marketing, and endorsement workshops, and costume design meetings, all to boost their chances of recruitment into an A-list superhero team. Some recruits make “the Bigs”. Some have fleeting moments of glory, then lose it all. Some take “Blue Cowl” gigs as superpowered bodyguards for famous actors or powerful CEOs. Some flounder in the System for years, never getting “the call”. And some find success by joining teams of a… less reputable ilk. Following the profound pop-culture satire of Three Fingers, The King, and BB Wolf and The Three LPs, award-winning graphic novelist Rich Koslowski examines the hopes, disappointments, perseverance, and triumphs of the super-gifted… and the sometimes drastic lengths they will go to achieve fortune and fame. ABOUT RICH KOSLOWSKI: Rich Koslowski is best known for his fan-friendly comic book series The 3 Geeks (later Geeksville), as the recipient of three Eisner Award nominations, and for the much-lauded graphic novel Three Fingers in 2002 (published by Top Shelf Productions), which won the coveted Ignatz Award for Outstanding Graphic Novel and was named as one of the 500 Essential Graphic Novels by Harper Collins in 2008. In 2005, his second graphic novel with Top Shelf, The King, was released and has been published in multiple foreign languages. In 2007, he wrote his first novel, a Christmas thriller entitled The List. 2008 brought Koslowski his first writing assignment for Marvel Comics, rebooting their popular Guardian character, now named Weapon Omega. Koslowski's writing of Weapon Omega was recognized with a Prism Award. In 2010, his third graphic novel with Top Shelf, BB Wolf and the Three LPs, was released and Koslowski won the Glyph Award for Best Artist. Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Episode 269 in an unlimited series! Host: Al Mega Follow on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook): @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: https://www.youtube.com/c/comiccrusadersworld Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/comiccrusaders Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Sister Site: http://www.undercovercapes.com​​​​ Pick up official Undercover Capes Podcast Network merchandise exclusively on RedBubble.com: bit.ly/UCPNMerch Streamyard is the platform of choice used by Comic Crusaders and The Undercover Capes Podcast Network to stream! Check out their premium plans for this amazing and versatile tool, sign up now: https://bit.ly/ComicCrusadersStreamyard * Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

Tomoko Miho was a Japanese-American graphic and industrial designer. Born Tomoko Kawakami in 1931 in Los Angeles, California, she learned her first design principles from the family flower business. Tomoko lived in LA until her family was forcibly interned in 1942. The Kawakami family spent three years of their lives imprisoned without reason or evidence at the Gila River War Relocation Center. Like most internment camps, Gila River was overcrowded and unhygienic, conditions that contributed to a majority of the 1,862 internment camp deaths. Tomoko and the Kawakami family survived their internment and moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota. Tomoko took design classes there and later moved back to Los Angeles, California with a full scholarship to the Art Center School. Around graduation she met her future husband, fellow designer James Miho. The couple would travel together often during their lives, moving to different cities for work or taking international trips for both business and leisure. Tomoko Miho met many fellow talented designers of her day, even mentoring under prolific modernist designer Irving Harper. Tomoko Miho would eventually start her own firm, Tomoko Miho Design, where she was known for her creative take on minimalism that would use shape and harmony to create elegant, multilayered worlds. Her unique style has left a lasting impression, especially on catalog design which her innovative minimalism transformed into something stylish and fashionable.TIMELINE1931 – b Tomoko Kawakami in Los Angeles, California.1942 – President Franklin Roosevelt issues Executive Order 9066; Japanese internment begins in America.1945 – Internment ends; the Kawakami family relocates to Minneapolis, Minnesota.1958 – Tomoko graduates from the Art Center School of Minneapolis, Minnesota with an industrial design degree.  Around this time, Tomoko meets husband James Miho.1960 – Tomoko and James take a six-month tour of Europe, meeting several notable European designers.1974 – The couple opens their own company, Miho Associates.1982  – Tomoko and James divorce; Tomoko founds Tomoko Miho Design in New York.2012  – d Tomoko Miho in New York, NY.REFERENCESAmericans of Japanese Ancestry WWII Memorial Alliance. (2020). Gila River Relocation Center. Japanese American Veterans Association. Retrieved 21 May 2021 from http://www.javadc.org/gila_river_relocation_center.htmConradi, J. (2010, September 18). Looking back, thinking forward: A narrative of the Vignellis. The Design Observer Group. Retrieved 21 May 2021 from https://archive.is/20130121113802/http://observatory.designobserver.com/feature/looking-back-thinking-forward-a-narrative-of-the-vignellis/15308/Corley, M. (2018, May 17). Health in Japanese internment camps. Health and medicine in American history. Retrieved 21 May 2021 from https://lewiscar.sites.grinnell.edu/HistoryofMedicine/spring2018/health-in-japanese-internment-camps/History about. (2015). Gila River Indian Community. Retrieved 21 May 2021 from http://www.gilariver.orgKedmey, K. (2017, January 14). How Isamu Noguchi's seven months in a Japanese internment camp inspired his art. Artsy. Retrieved 21 May 2021 from https://www.artsy.net/article/artsy-editorial-noguchis-seven-months-japanese-internment-camp-inspired-artLeong, K. J. (2020). Gila River. In Brian Niiya (ed.), Densho Encyclopedia. Retrieved 21 May 2021 from http://encyclopedia.densho.org/Gila%20River/Maciag, M. (2013). Population Density for U.S. Cities Statistics. Governing: the future of states and localities. Retrieved 21 May 2021 from https://www.governing.com/gov-data/population-density-land-area-cities-map.htmlMartin, R. (2015, October 15). California dreaming: Reconsidering the work of Charles and Ray Eames. Apollo Magazine. Retrieved 21 May 2021 from https://www.apollo-magazine.com/california-dreaming-reconsidering-the-work-of-charles-and-ray-eames/Other resources. (2021, January 5). National Archives. Retrieved 21 May 2021 from https://www.archives.gov/research/japanese-americans/linksPaid notice: Deaths Miho, Tomoko Kawakami. (2012, February 26). The New York Times. Retrieved 21 May 2021 from https://archive.nytimes.com/query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage-9803E1DE113AF935A15751C0A9649D8B63.htmlRemembering Tomoko Miho. (2017). Ginkgo Journal. Retrieved 21 May 2021 from https://ginkgojournal.com/home/remembering-tomoko-miho/2017Takei, G. (2019). They called us enemy. Top Shelf Productions.Vienne, V. (1993). 1993 AIGA medalist: Tomoko Miho. AIGA: The professional association for design. Retrieved 21 May 2021 from https://web.archive.org/web/20210309014433/https://www.aiga.org/medalist-tomokomiho

Trigger warning this week. There is a discussion about abuse as it comes up in the book this week. If you are a victim of abuse or you know someone who needs help, please to to RAINN or to Four in One to get the help and services you need. This week, Tony is joined by the Reface master himself, Mr. Blake Byles. Blake brought with him his favorite Blanket as he and Tony talk about Craig Thompson's award winning, auto-biographical masterpiece, Blankets. Please listen to Blake's Playlist here. You can read it here on the Internet Archive Blankets is an autobiographical graphic novel by Craig Thompson, published in 2003 by Top Shelf Productions. As a coming-of-age autobiography, the book tells the story of Thompson's childhood in an Evangelical Christian family, his first love, and his early adulthood. The book was widely acclaimed, with Time magazine ranking it #1 in its 2003 Best Comics list, and #8 in its Best Comics of the Decade. Comics in Motion is now a Humble Bundle Partner. Check out Judging Dredd from Sequart: http://sequart.org/books/14/judging-dredd-examining-the-world-of-judge-dredd/ If you want to talk with Tony about comics or to suggest any future shows, please connect with him on Twitter @Tricycleboombox. You can find him online and send him an email at https://www.arfarina.com/. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/comics-in-motion-podcast/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/comics-in-motion-podcast/support

California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) Professor Kim Dwinell Teaches us The Science of Surfing: A Surfside Girls Guide to the Ocean a graphic novel published through Top Shelf Productions, an IDW Publishing imprint. Professor of Animation at CSULB, Kim Dwinell, releases her third graphic novel in Surfside Girls series entitled The Science of Surfing: A Surfside Girls Guide to the Ocean a graphic novel published through Top Shelf Productions, an IDW Publishing imprint. I had the pleasure of speaking with Professor Dwinell about art, surfing, science and craft beer along with my experiences at Cal State Long Beach in the teaching credential program. Professor Dwinell along with the assistance of a science professor at CSULB, takes us on a youth friendly journey about oceanography all via her love of the ocean and surfing, turning the most stubborn learner into a science fan. I have said a million times over that science is taught wrong in the United States as I remember from my youth the my teacher went through a 45-minute lecture using Greek and Latin jargon to only find out that the big pay off at the end was, "...and that's how you make a car tire (or soda bottle, I can't remember exactly which one, but it was something mundane)." That one lesson left a bad taste in my mouth about science, causing me to think for so many years that it was just a bunch of ego maniacs doing nothing significant in the classroom. However, Professor Dwinell, through art reopened my eyes and in over 100 pages, sent me running to the beach. After our conversation, I owe Professor Dwinell a beer at the very least and waving to her from the safety of the sand as she catches some waves. The Science of Surfing: A Surfside Girls Guide to the Ocean is available through Top Shelf Productions, an IDW Publishing imprint. Follow Kim Dwinell on Instagram at kimberly.dwinell. Visit Kim Dwinell's official websites at www.kimdwinell.com and www.surfsidegirls.com. Visit Kim Dwinell's page on Top Shelf Productions to purchase the trilogy of Surfside Girls graphic novels at www.topshelfcomix.com/catalog/kim-dwinell. #KimDwinell #Surfer #Surfing #SurferGirl #Oceanography #CSULB #Interview #Animation #Science

This week we are joined by artist James Albon. James is an English artist who recently released his comics The Delicacy from Top Shelf Productions. Check out his work using the links below. https://www.jamesalbon.com/https://www.previewsworld.com/Catalog/FEB210446Get 20% off your Geek Grind Coffee with the promo code: CHRIR20https://geekgrindcoffee.com?p=rJRo_vrPd Get your Fortress Comics merchandise with the link belowhttps://www.teepublic.com/user/fortress-comics Get your copy of Battle Monsters #1 on Comixology or the Fortress of Comic News online storehttps://www.comixology.com/Fortress-Comics/comics-publisher/20312-0?ref=Y29taWMvdmlldy9kZXNrdG9wL2JyZWFkY3J1bWJz Want to talk comics and chat with the hosts of your favorite Fortress Comics content? Join our facebook group with the link below:https://www.facebook.com/groups/1607250199464647/?ref=share Join us on Discord:https://discord.gg/SFQuqJ9 FortressofComicNews.com YouTube.com/FortressComics Chris twitter @fortresschris ChrisRundt.com Mike twitter @fortressricker Patreon.com/FortressComics Thanks for Listening!

New York Times bestselling author Robert Venditti broke into comics the old-fashioned way—by starting out in the mailroom. He began working for publisher Top Shelf Productions in 2002, and within a few months sold them the script for The Surrogates, his first comic book series. The story was later adapted into a feature film starring Bruce Willis and Ving Rhames. Venditti went on to write the original graphic novel The Homeland Directive, as well as the graphic novel adaptations of Rick Riordan's bestselling Percy Jackson and the Olympians novels. In 2012, he helped relaunch Valiant Entertainment's comic book universe by writing their flagship title, X-O Manowar. Venditti currently writes GREEN LANTERN for DC Comics. He lives in Atlanta. Links: Robert Venditti Official Website - http://www.robertvenditti.com/works/ Top Shelf Comix - https://www.topshelfcomix.com/catalog/robert-venditti Episode Sponsors: Zeppelin Comics - https://zeppelincomics.com/ Strange Media - http://www.strangemedia.com About the host: Steffan Schulz is a producer/director located in the San Francisco Bay Area. His professional career as a filmmaker spans 30 years. His work has been honored with over 100 awards including a spot in A/V Magazine's Top 100 Producers. Steffan is an Adobe Premiere Certified Expert, FAA licensed commercial drone pilot, underwater cinematographer, as well as a published author, presenter, instructor and university lecturer. He is the owner of Strange Media, a full service media production company located in the San Francisco Bay Area. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/amuse/support

This episode was originally broadcast on October 3, 2013. In a time when so much attention is paid to 'heroes' who seem less and less deserving of the phrase, Mike and Greg take a look at a graphic novel telling the beginnings of a real-life crusader for truth and justice. March, the first in a planned trilogy from Top Shelf Productions, tells the story of civil rights activist and current U.S. Congressman John Lewis in his own words, aided by writer Andrew Aydin and adapted into sequential storytelling by Nate Powell. Easily one of the best graphic novels of 2013, March pulls the reader right into one man's journey from bystander to activist, and shows with uncanny skill an America we are long past and yet still frightening close to. Robots From Tomorrow is a weekly comics podcast recorded deep beneath the Earth’s surface. You can subscribe to it via iTunes or through the RSS feed at RobotsFromTomorrow.com. You can also follow Mike and Greg on Twitter. Music is John Hughes by Anamanaguchi. Enjoy your funny books.

Friends, I had so much fun talking with Jess today! He is such an inspiration to me. I am so glad my great-great-grandmother insulted him! (Listen in for the rest of that story!)Want to learn more about him? Check out his website: www.Jess-smiley.com and go like and follow him on Instagram and Face as Jess Smart Smiley. Guest Bio: Jess Smart Smiley makes rad pictures with his bare hands. Jess is the creator of graphic novels, picture books, comics, and zines. He has helped more than 2,000 children, teens, and adults create their first comics, completed more than 80 sketchbooks, and has created work for DisneyPixar, Cartoon Network, Penguin Random House, and Top Shelf Productions.

Today's episode was supposed to be about The Sandman: The Doll's House. But we felt that we just couldn't ignore the protests taking place around the United States and across the world over the needless, senseless deaths of George Floyd and many other black Americans. So instead we're discussing the historic but little-known Martin Luther King and The Montgomery Story, published in 1957 by a group called the Fellowship of Reconciliation. This 16-page comic explores the events surrounding the Montgomery Bus Boycott, gives a brief biography of Dr. King, and outlines the principles of nonviolent resistance. And it inspired a young man named John Lewis, who would go on to become a leader of the Civil Rights Movement and U.S. Congressman, and whose comic biography March, Vol. 1, we reviewed back in March of this year. Original copies of this book are hard to find, although an authorized reissue was published in 2013 by Marietta, Georgia-based Top Shelf Productions. It's also available on Comixology for $1.99. (And here's some background on it by March co-writer Andrew Aydin.) In addition to our thoughts on the book itself, we discuss the ways in which superhero comics can be problematic, particularly in their sometime glorification of violence by authority figures. We also briefly discuss the 2019 HBO miniseries Watchmen, and spoil some plot points. We plan to be back in two weeks with that episode on The Doll's House, pending other world-shaking events. In the meantime, we encourage you to donate to Black Lives Matter or to a bail fund or other activism-related funds: you can find an extensive list here and here. Thanks for listening, and stay safe and well!

This week on Indie Comics Spotlight, Tony is joined by Professor Keri Griffin of Siena Heights University and Lourdes University. They will be tackling that tough, but brilliant graphic memoir by George Takei: They Called us EnemyLong before George Takei braved new frontiers in Star Trek, he woke up as a four-year-old boy to find his own birth country at war with his father's -- and their entire family forced from their home into an uncertain future.Top Shelf Productions, based in Marietta, Georgia, has published critically acclaimed and popularly beloved graphic novels since 1997. Now an imprint of IDW Publishing, Top Shelf continues to showcase the vanguard of the comics medium, publishing works of literary sophistication, visionary artistry, and personal resonance. The company was founded by Chris Staros and Brett Warnock. They Called Us EnemybyGeorge Takei (co-writer), Justin Eisinger (co-writer) Steven Scott (co-writer) Harmony Becker (Artist)A graphic memoir recounting actor/author/activist George Takei's childhood imprisoned within American concentration camps during World War II. Experience the forces that shaped an American icon -- and America itself.The outro this week is called “Do not fight the storm.” It comes from the musical, Allegiance .If you want to talk with Tony about comics or to suggest any future shows, please connect with him on Twitter @Tricycleboombox. You can read his reviews of multiple Independent and DC comics at DC Comics News or at Fantastic Universes. You can find him online and send him an email at https://www.arfarina.com/. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this episode, we take a break from talking about fictional superheroes to discuss a real-life superhero with a look at March, Book 1, the first in a three-part series of autobiographical graphic novels examining the life and career of U.S. Congressman John Lewis, published by Top Shelf Productions! Join us as we trace the civil rights leader's early days, from his humble beginnings preaching to chickens on his family's farm to his first meeting with the Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr., and his efforts to desegregate Nashville department store lunch counters. Will this gripping account of one man's journey to gain freedom and equal rights through nonviolent means make its way to that hallowed hall of heroes known as ... The Comics Canon?  In This Episode! Curt's brush with Rep. Lewis Martin Luther King and the Montgomery Story John Lewis, Time Traveler What's the deal with the oar? Unsettling similarities to the present The Spinner Rack on Twitter The New Adventures of Abraham Lincoln by Scott McCloud Parting the Waters by Taylor Branch Maus I: A Survivor's Tale: My Father Bleeds History The National Center for Civil and Human Rights Join us in two weeks as travel back to the ‘90s to visit one of the hippest superheroes ever with a look at Starman Vol. 2: Night and Day, by James Robinson and Tony Harris! Until then: Impress your friends with our Comics Canon merchandise! Rate us on Apple Podcasts! Send us an email! Hit us up on Twitter or Facebook! And as always, thanks for listening!

Jimmy recently read 3 new graphic novels from one of his favorite comics publishers, Top Shelf Productions. They Called Us Enemy by George Takei with co-writers Justin Eisinger and Steven Scott and art by Harmony Becker is a stunning tale of Takei's life in the Japanese intermment camps as a child during World War 2. Takei walks us through his parents' struggle to keep their heads up, his innocence during that time and what he learned after growing up. It's a tale that will not leave you.    Highwayman by Koren Shadmi is a futuristic story of a man on a journey trying to find out his purpose in life. In his travels and over the years, he runs across what becomes a barren landscape and very few people. But, he may find some just like him and he has to decide if that's good or bad. Sometimes, you may not always want to know your real story.    And finally, Penny Nichols by MK Reed and Greg Means with art by Matt Wiegle is a super fun tale of a woman finding what she wants to do in life. Stuck in job after dull job, Penny just wants to find something meaningful to do. When she stumbles across these amateur horror filmmakers, she thinks she may have found her calling. That is, if she can get through all the fake blood and cheesy scripts.    Check out the episode to hear Jimmy's thoughts on all 3 of these great graphic novels! Kudos to Top Shelf Productions for consistently putting out such great content like this! After listening, you'll soon be wanting to read all 3. Leave your iTunes comments! 5 stars and nothing but love! Also, get a hold of us!   Thanks for listening!

This week we talk about Jeff Lemire!  Writer, Artist and Cartoonist   Link to the Secret Path Video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yGd764YU9yc Jeff Lemire: Cartoonist, Writer, Penciller Born: March 21, 1976 (age 42) Essex County, Ontario, Canada Notable Works Essex County Trilogy The Nobody Sweet Tooth Animal Man Green Arrow Black Hammer Gideon Falls Awards Xeric Award, 2005 Lost Dogs YALSA Alex Award, 2008Essex County Volume 1: Tales from the Farm Joe Shuster Award, 2008 Outstanding Cartoonist Doug Wright Award, 2008 Best Emerging Talent Joe Shuster Award, 2009 & 2013 Outstanding Canadian Cartoonist (recognizing his work on Sweet Tooth and The Underwater Welder) Eisner Award, 2017 Black Hammer He has also been nominated for 6-8 Eisner Awards, 5-7 Harvey Awards and 6-8 Shuster Awards. After self-publishing the Xeric Award-winning comic book Lost Dogs in 2005 via his Ashtray Press imprint, Lemire found a home at Top Shelf Productions. This 104-page mythic yarn follows a family man who's larger than life... but even he may not be powerful enough to prevent the loss of everything he's ever known. Lemire wrote and illustrated Essex County Trilogy for Top Shelf Lemire wrote and illustrated the full-colour Vertigo series Sweet Tooth Gus, a young boy with deer features, lives a quiet life deep in the woods with his father. He learns many things, from medical care to religious prophecy. Though he loves his religious father, he yearns to escape as he learns that there is not fire past the trees, but simply more land.   Be Sure to Follow us on Social Media Twitter: @FOC_Podcast Facebook: FOCPodcast Instagram: @fortress_of_comictude Email: focpodcast@gmail.com Music: Aural Bandito   If you read the description of this podcast episode Tweet @FOC_Podcast on twitter and tell us... What is your favorite Animal? --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/fortress-of-comictude/support

Time Codes: 00:00:23 - Introduction 00:02:38 - Setup of interview 00:04:02 - Interview with Nate Powell 01:19:33 - Wrap up 01:22:26 - Contact us Paul and Derek are pleased to have Nate Powell back on the show. This time they talk with him about his new book Come Again, just released from Top Shelf Productions. They discuss the genesis of this project, the significance of the story's setting, the unsteady balance between needs for personal isolation and the importance of community, and the narrative's forays into the fantastic. Yet they also talk about several of Nate's other works, including March, Swallow Me Whole, Any Empire, and Sounds of Your Name. But what comes out over the entire course of the conversation is the kind of fun these three guys have talking together. Can't you just hear it?

Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:18 - Setup of interview 00:03:49 - Interview with Julian Hanshaw 01:04:39 - Wrap up 01:05:08 - Contact us Many U.S. readers were introduced to Julian Hanshaw through his book Tim Ginger, released in 2015 from Top Shelf Productions, an imprint of IDW Publishing. It's the story of man in his later years coming to terms with the decisions he's made, including his choice to remain childless. As Julian discusses in this interview, the text was largely autobiographical in nature. And the same can said of his new book, Cloud Hotel. The story was inspired by a UFO encounter he had as a young boy and the psychological affect such an experience had on him afterwards. As Julian discloses during his conversation with Derek, Cloud Hotelis the second of what will be a trilogy of autobiographical works, beginning with Tim Ginger. But they also discuss some of his earlier works that may not be familiar to American readers, such as The Art of Phoand I'm Never Coming Back. Julian also talks about his upcoming book from SelfMadeHero, I Feel Machine, a collection of six comics stories that he edited with Kent Able, all by different creators and all focusing on how technology has transformed the way we communicate and frame our culture.

Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 02:16 - Setup of interview 03:40 - Interview with Erin Nations 51:50 - Wrap up 52:14 - Contact us In December of 2016, Top Shelf Productions published the first issue of Erin Nations's Gumballs, the one of four issuesthat would be released over the course of the following year. This quarterly ran as a one-personal anthology, a collection of stories and observations, many of which were autobiographical in nature. Gumballsstood out among its peers in that it recalled the kind of comic books we used to get from other alternative creators such as Seth, Daniel Clowes, and Chris Ware. Now those creators have turned to the “graphic novel” or book form, and it's a rarity that we get a comic book like this, making Gumballsstand out as a title of note. Now those four issues have been collected as a trade, one that has just been made available in the direct market and next week will be out for wider release.  In this interview, Derek talks with Erin Nations about the genesis of his Gumballsseries, his thoughts on being an autobiographical cartoonist, how he uses comics to chronicle his transitioning, and the various tones he strikes among the many stories contained within his series.

Today our podcast connects with Chris Staros, publisher and editor of Top Shelf Productions, former president of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund, and author of Yearbook Stories, 1976–1978 (Top Shelf). Producer: Jon-Barrett Ingels and Kevin Staniec Manager: Sarah Becker Host: Jon-Barrett Ingels Guest: Christ Staros Photo: Jenni Girtman

Here they are world... Drew and Julia once more (plus a lot of times after this). They took good and true on books about all sorts of stuff. Hope you're also ready for a dope interview with Moonstruck's Shae Beagle and Grace Ellis! Oh plus, the giveaway ends tomorrow so get in on that. Listen in to discover: Snarlbear Moonstruck The Harcourt Legacy Arkade The Devil & the Monk Bottled Deathbed Menage a 3 The Wilds Pizzeria Kamikaze Labyrinth Notes: www.fortheloveofindie.com Email: ftlindie@gmail.com Twitter/Instagram: @ftlindie/@ftloveofindie

Derek talks with Dave Calver about his new book Limbo Lounge. This is his first graphic novel, and it's a first for IDW Publishing, a joint effort between two of its imprints, Yoe Books and Top Shelf Productions. Over the course of their conversation, the two discuss the origins of this project, the author's effective use of coloring as a narrative tool, the surreal and tonally ambiguous nature of the work, how Dave's background as an illustrator informed his storytelling, and where his efforts, largely inspired by Limbo Lounge, are taking him now.  

Time Codes: 00:25 - Introduction 02:31 - Setup of interview 03:32 - Interview with James Albon 57:35 - Wrap up 58:31 - Contact us On this interview episode Derek has the pleasure of talking with James Albon, whose new book Her Bark and Her Bite comes out this week from Top Shelf Productions. James is British artist whose illustrations have appeared in The Guardian, The Wall Street Journal, WIRED, the New Statesman, The Diplomat, The Financial Times, and various publications from the Folio Society. Her Bark and Her Bite is his first graphic novel, and much of the conversation is devoted to this fact and how his work as a professional illustrator informs his graphic storytelling. The book can be described as a romantic comedy, where its protagonist artist figure, Rebecca, moves to the big city and meets Victor, a gregarious and flamboyant socialite with whom she quickly becomes smitten. Complications arise when Victor receives a young dog as a gift, and the canine becomes an unwitting rival to Rebecca's affections. What follows is a series of faux pas and inanities that pits social acceptance against personal expression. In this interview, James shares the genesis of his narrative, its links to his own life experiences, and why fiction was the perfect platform for his inaugural long-form comic.

Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:42 - Setup of interview 00:03:56 - Interview with Nate Powell 01:10:11 - Interview with Andrew Aydin 02:12:26 - Wrap up 02:13:57 - Contact us On this interview show, Andy and Derek do something different. They talk with both Nate Powell and Andrew Aydin, the artist and coauthor of the recently completed March trilogy (Top Shelf Productions), but instead of interviewing both creators together, the guys talk with them separately and then combine the two recordings into one long episode. So in this show, over two hours and fifteen minutes long, you'll hear about the genesis and the creative turns that went into the March books from both the artist's and the writer's perspectives. Nate and Andrew also discuss their time working with Congressman John Lewis, his wealth of experiences from the Civil Rights Movement, and the creative choices that each of them had to make when representing those events. For example, Nate explains the challenges that faced him when illustrating the unspeakable violence, and Andrew describes his strategies for scripting the chronology of the congressman's young life. Both guests also share a few words about current projects they have underway and what we can expect from them post-March.  

On this interview episode Derek has the pleasure of talking with Koren Shadmi. His latest book, Love Addict: Confessions of a Serial Dater was released last month from Top Shelf Productions. They begin the conversation by discussing the genesis of this semi-autobiographical project and Koren's own experiences on singles dating websites. He describes the challenge of making his protagonist, K., both identifiable and problematic, all the while walking a fine line between authenticity and potential charges of misogyny. But they also discuss Koren's other works, including his experimental story collection, In the Flesh, and his webcomic-turned-book, The Abaddon. Koren also discusses his latest webcomic on the Vice channel, Motherboard, and his plans for future projects. Derek also asks his guest about last year's Mike's Place: A True Story of Love, Blues, and Terror in Tel Aviv, his own Israeli roots, and his thoughts on being identified (and perhaps pigeonholed) as a Jewish or Israeli cartoonist.

This week we're putting our hockey sticks on the ice!  We cover Jeff Lemire's Essex County from Top Shelf Productions for the Reading Assignment this week.  We also talk about Gilbert Hernandez and Darwyn Cooke's Twilight Children from Vertigo Comics, Seven Soldiers: Zatanna #s1-4 by Grant Morrison and Ryan Sook from DC Comics, The Walking Dead #155 by Robert Kirkman and Charlie Adlard from Image Comics, and Paper Girls #6 by Brian K. Vaughn and Cliff Chiang from Image Comics. This show is unofficially brought to you by crippling depression.  Follow us on Twitter: @timvanautreve @personman44 @cnupodcast @kentwagenschutz Find us on the rest of the Internet:  Facebook iTunes Stitcher Dig this podcast? You'll love the other ones here:  Benview Network Digging that sweet, sweet theme song?  The Fantastic Plastics are super mega ultra rad.   

For this interview show, Gwen and Derek talk with Benjamin Frisch about his new book from Top Shelf Productions, The Fun Family. In many ways, this is a parody of Bil and Jeff Keane's The Family Circus. The narrative concerns the family life of beloved cartoonist Robert Fun and chronicles the threads of domesticity as everything begins to unravel. Fun has a strip very much like Keane's, a family-oriented single-circular-panel daily, but Frisch doesn't demean the legendary newspaper strip or take it into obscene territory. However, there are dark places where Frisch travels, and that's much of the fun of this book. Both Gwen and Derek ask their guest about the genesis of his project, his history with newspaper dailies, and his recent experiences in the residency program, La Maison des Auteurs, in Angoulême, France. They also discuss Frisch's background in sound production and his own work in podcasting, specifically with Jessica Abel (a previous guest) and Out on the Wire. This experience with Benjamin Frisch is yet one more example of the fruitful intersection of comics and podcasting.

On this week's review episode, Andy and Derek delve into two new and exciting titles. They start with Ludovic Debeurme's Renée (Top Shelf Productions), the followup to his 2011 release, Lucille. In fact, the guys begin their discussion by describing the earlier book and setting the stage for what they see in the recent narrative. Renée picks up on the story of Debeurme's young protagonists, Lucille and Arthur, and weaves within a third character, Renée Bruissiez, another troubled figure struggling with both family and relationship issues. Indeed, her dilemma thematically resembles those of both Arthur and Lucille, and Debeurme juxtaposes these storylines so that Renée reads somewhat like a psychological conversation. But the Two Guys also note the differences between the two graphic novels. Whereas the art in Lucille is more simple and iconic, Debeurme's illustrative style in the new book is more detailed and highly textured. In addition, there's a more surreal or dreamlike feel to Renée, and at times the storytelling style and visual characterization reminds the guys of a cross between Charles Burns and Daniel Clowes. They wrap up their conversation by observing that, although there's no textual hint of one, Renée ends in such a way that would warrant yet another volume. Next, Derek and Andy jump into the more edgy and forbidden world of Peter Milligan and Leandro Fernandez. The first issue of their new series, The Discipline (Image Comics), will be released in early March, but the guys take an early look at what readers can expect. In the inaugural issue we are introduced to Melissa, an attractive yet sexually frustrated young wife whose husband seems to provide her with nothing other than financial security. While in a museum being mesmerized by a provocative Goya painting, she meets Orlando, whose seductive lure ultimately pulls her into strange world that might best be described as a mix of BDSM and fantasy. Things heat up and take unexpected turns, making it a much more risqué take on relationships than Milligan's other current title, New Romancer. The guys conclude that this first issue of The Discipline doesn't disappoint, and that it's a title definitely worth following on a monthly basis.

Jennifer Hayden comes to The Comics Alternative to talk about her new book, The Story of My Tits, released last month by Top Shelf Productions...just in time for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. She discusses with Derek the context surrounding the memoir and, along with that, the story of becoming an artist and comics creator. As Andy and Derek pointed out a couple of weeks ago in their spotlight on Top Shelf, The Story of My Tits much more than a breast cancer survivor narrative. It's a chronicle of Hayden's relationship with her breasts, from childhood and into maturity, and what they meant to her sense of self. At the same time, it's a story of binding relationships and how cancer in many forms had effected her family. These various narrative threads come together to create a deeply personal account of life under the influences of disease, adversity, and self-image. Jennifer also discusses the eight-year journey of writing this memoir, and how along the way she discovered graphic novels, met fellow artists (such as Dean Haspiel), became a contributor to Act-I-Vate, and created a series of other comics such as Underwire and Rushes. In addition, she talks with Derek about her philosophy of storytelling, her style of creating comics (pen-to-paper, only), and the reaction The Story of My Tits has been receiving. Be sure to check out Jennifer's website as well as her blog, Goddess Comix, where you can find the latest updates on what she's up to.

Can it be true? Are the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics actually doing yet another publisher spotlight? Are they gluttons for punishment? Are their eyeballs going to fall out from all of the reading? Maybe so, but if their orbs do drop out of their heads, they'll do so while gazing at some of the great books coming out of Top Shelf Productions. In this episode, you'll hear Andy and Derek talking about the publisher's summer and fall releases, including: Bacchus Omnibus, Vol. 1, by Eddie Campbell Motorcycle Samurai, Vol. 1: A Fiery Demise, by Chris Sheridan Tim Ginger, by Julian Hanshaw The Story of My Tits, by Jennifer Hayden Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, adapted by Troy Little Junction True, by Ray Fawkes and Vince Locke Before they get into the titles themselves, Derek shares a brief interview he conducted with Chris Staros, the publisher of Top Shelf. They talk about the origins of Top Shelf, the authors who have helped define their line, and their recent acquisition by IDW Publishing. Then, it's on to the books! The guys begin with a discussion of Eddie Campbell's Bacchus Omnibus, Vol. 1. This is the first of two behemoth books collecting all of Campbell's Bacchus stories, complete with the titular god of wine and revelry, Joe Theseus, Hermes, the Stygian Leech, and the guys' favorite, the Eyeball Kid. After that, Derek and Andy revisit a comic that they first discussed almost two years ago, Chris Sheridan's Motorcycle Samurai. Back in January of 2014, they looked at the first two issues of the digital series, but this time they focus on the first completed narrative arc. The guys point out some of the differences between the two versions, digital and hardcopy, while at the same time highlighting many of he strengths in Sheridan's storytelling. The next book they cover, Julian Hanshaw's Tim Ginger, turns out to be one of their favorite books of the year. Both Andy and Derek point out the ambitiousness of this narrative, both thematically and visually, especially given the book's compressed format. Indeed, Andy wonders if perhaps there was too much that Hanshaw was attempting to take on. Jennifer Hayden's The Story of My Tits is where they go after that. This is an autobiographic tale of the author's bout with breast cancer. But the book is much more than a personal cancer narrative. It is also Hayden's account of her important life relationships, both with her loved ones and with her breasts as they relate to self-image. Next, the Two Guys turn to a completely different kind of book, Troy Little's adaptation of Hunter S. Thompson's Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. Like the original, this is a wild ride, and Little's composition brings out the surreal and even frightening quality of Thompson's narrative. The guys note that Little does what Ralph Steadman does in his illustrations for the 1972 book, without being derivative in any way, and that this is a more approachable version that Terry Gilliam's 1998 film. Finally, the guys wrap up with a book that is not yet out but will soon be, Ray Fawkes and Vince Locke's Junction True. This is a disturbing science fiction tale that doesn't seem that unrealistic at all. In fact, its thematic focus on body enhancement and media exhibitionism is not too far from the culture in which we currently reside. One could even read Junction True metaphorically as a cautionary tale...or one of contemporary gothic horror.

It's the beginning of the month, and that means that the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics take a metaphorical stroll through the latest Previews catalog. And this month, their peregrinations are more than casual; this is more like a power walk. The March Previews contains a hefty series of solicitations that make for an extra-long episode, almost leaving the guys feeling like they've completed a marathon. Among the many upcoming titles that Derek and Andy highlight are Fight Club 2 #1, Harrow County #1, and High Crimes (from Dark Horse Comics); You Don't Say, Little Nemo: Return to Slumberland, and Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency #1 (IDW Publications); the usual slew of #1 issues from Image Comics such as Injection, Mythic, Material, Valhalla Mad, and Minimum Wage: So Many Bad Decisions; Russian Olive to Red King (AdHouse Books); a variety of books from and distributed through Alternative Comics, such as Irene Vol. 4, It Will All Hurt #1, Island of Memory Vol. 1, The Secret Voice #2, and Smilin' Ed Comics; the first issue in Alan Moore's new Lovecraftian series, Providence (Avatar Press); the new Captain Canuck #1 (Chapter House Publishing); Don't Get Eaten by Anything and The Disappearance of Charley Butters (Conundrum Press); Drawn and Quarterly: Twenty-five Years of Contemporary Cartooning, Comics, and Graphic Novels and Optic Nerve #14 (Drawn and Quarterly); the usual impressive offerings from Fantagraphics, including Maria M. Book 2, Adventures of Tad Martin #Sick Sick Sick, and The Life and Legend of Wallace Wood; Exquisite Corpse (First Second); Annihilator, Vol. 1 (Legendary Comics); Louise Brooks, Detective (NBM); Aama Vol. 3: The Desert of Mirrors and The King in Yellow (SelfMadeHero); Surface Tension #1 and The 6 Voyages of Lone Sloane #1 (Titan Comics); and Monster Mash: The Creepy, Kooky Monster Craze in America: 1957-1972 (Tomorrows Publishing). In addition to focusing on all of these upcoming releases, Andy and Derek also discuss Dark Horse's recent decision to make several of their ongoing series digital-only, IDW's acquisition of Top Shelf Productions as a new imprint, Alternative Comic's new distribution agreement with several small presses, the joys of Adrian Tomine, and the fact that this is “Women in Comics” month in the March Previews catalog. In all, lots o' things are covered…the kind of substantive, quality programming you've come to expect from the Two Guys with PhDs.

The latest in a long line of CGS multi-topic gab sessions, coming your way! On the agenda for this episode are reactions to IDW's recent acquisition of Top Shelf Productions; anticipation of Marvel's upcoming original Netflix series; salivation over the mid-season premieres of 'Gotham' and 'Agent Carter'; and an announcement concerning the CGS Best of 2014 Awards! (1:14:26)

The latest in a long line of CGS multi-topic gab sessions, coming your way! On the agenda for this episode are reactions to IDW's recent acquisition of Top Shelf Productions; anticipation of Marvel's upcoming original Netflix series; salivation over the mid-season premieres of 'Gotham' and 'Agent Carter'; and an announcement concerning the CGS Best of 2014 Awards! (1:14:26)

Aug. 30, 2014. Rep. John Lewis and Andrew Aydin appear at the 2014 Library of Congress National Book Festival in Washington, D.C. Speaker Biography: John Lewis has served as the U.S. States representative for Georgia's 5th Congressional District since 1987. He is senior chief deputy whip for the Democratic Party. Rep. Lewis had been serving America long before his congressional career began, as he is revered as a major civil rights icon, lending his resounding moral voice to the cause for more than 50 years. He was a key player in the movement to end racial discrimination and segregation as chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee. In the first book of his graphic memoir trilogy, "March" (Top Shelf Productions), published with co-writer Andrew Aydin and New York Times best-selling artist Nate Powell, Rep. Lewis recounts his lifelong struggle for civil and human rights, chronicling the days of Jim Crow to the broader civil rights movement, and telling of his experience at the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. "March" has been recognized as the winner of the Robert F. Kennedy Book Award, a No. 1 New York Times bestseller, a No. 1 Washington Post best-seller, a Coretta Scott King Honor Book and an American Library Association Notable Children's Book. Rep. Lewis will appear with his aide Andrew Aydin. Speaker Biography: Andrew Aydin is an aide to Rep. John Lewis and co-author of the first book of the Congressman's graphic novel memoir trilogy, "March" (Top Shelf Productions). For transcript, captions, and more information, visit http://www.loc.gov/today/cyberlc/feature_wdesc.php?rec=6413

This week on The Comics Alternative, Derek and Gene put on their happy faces to review three titles concerned with the positive and uplifting sides of life. First, they go through Loïc Dauvillier and Marc Lizano's Hidden: A Child's Story of the Holocaust (First Second), a new graphic novel focusing on genocide. A translation of the 2012 French album, L'enfant cachée, this is the story of a survivor telling her young granddaughter the traumas she underwent in 1940s France. Perhaps even more significantly, it's a story about hiding: hiding from terror, hiding who you are, hiding your experiences, and hiding from your family. Among other facets of the book, the guys focus on the possible audience assumptions with this story, how it's crafted for younger readers while at the same time having an all-age appeal. Next, they turn to Genesis (Image Comics), the new one-shot from Nathan Edmondson and Alison Sampson. Gene is uncertain about the issue, feeling that the story reaches for a deeper significance that it never really earns. Derek is a little more positive, arguing that Sampson's intriguing (and at times, surreal) art goes a long way in carrying the weight of this quasi-parable. The story has everything to do with death and destruction…much like Hidden, and much like the next title that the Two Guys review. The latest issue of World War 3 Illustrated (distributed through Top Shelf Productions), #45, is described by editors Peter Kuper and Scott Cunningham as “the death issue.” All of the 31 contributions to this anthology have something to do with death, whether it be the passing of a family member, the “death” of an idea or identity, coming to terms with the end of life, or the presence of death in art and literature. As Derek and Gene discuss, some of the most moving, and most notable, pieces in this latest issue of World War 3 Illustrated include comics by Kuper, Rosalie Lightning and Tom Hart, Hayley Gold, Seth Tobocman, Sandy Jimenez, and Kevin C. Pyle. The tone of the comics discussed in this episode may be dark or heavy, but the stories are all fascinatingly told and well worth reading.

John Lewis is Georgia’s 5th Congressional District Representative and an American icon who has witnessed history in the making and made history himself as one of the key figures of the Civil Rights Movement. To share his story with new generations, Lewis turned to the graphic novel format and has published "March" (Top Shelf Productions.) "March" is a vivid first-hand account of John Lewis’ lifelong struggle for civil and human rights, including his key roles in the historic 1963 March on Washington and the 1965 Selma-Montgomery March. Rooted in Lewis’ personal story, it also reflects on the highs and lows of the broader civil rights movement. Congressman Lewis is interviewed in this Kentucky Author Forum by Rachel Maddow, host of MSNBC’s primetime news and information program, “The Rachel Maddow Show.”

In a time when so much attention is paid to 'heroes' who seem less and less deserving of the phrase, Mike and Greg take a look at a graphic novel telling the beginnings of a real-life crusader for truth and justice. March, the first in a planned trilogy from Top Shelf Productions, tells the story of civil rights activist and current U.S. Congressman John Lewis in his own words, aided by writer Andrew Aydin and adapted into sequential storytelling by Nate Powell. Easily one of the best graphic novels of 2013, March pulls the reader right into one man's journey from bystander to activist, and shows with uncanny skill an America we are long past and yet still frightening close to. Robots From Tomorrow is a weekly comics podcast recorded deep beneath the Earth's surface. You can subscribe to it via iTunes or through the RSS feed at RobotsFromTomorrow.com. You can also follow Mike and Greg on Twitter. Music is John Hughes by Anamanaguchi. Enjoy your funny books.

Robert Venditti is a comic book writer, who is best known for his work on the Top Shelf Productions title “The Surrogates.” He now is working for DC Comics and is taking over the Green Lantern series. He is looking to take the main character Hal Jordan on adventures that fans of the series has never seen before. Robert took time out of his busy schedule to chat about taking over the Green Lantern series from legendary writer Geoff Johns. He also touched upon how he got into writing and what his children think of his job. It was a real pleasure for me who is a big fan of comic books to talk with someone so immersed in the comic book industry. I learned a lot about how comics were made and what it takes to become a comic book writer.

In this episode we talk to Kevin Colden is an Eisner Award-nominated, Xeric Grant winning American comic book writer and artist. Primarily known as a webcomics artist, his work has been published in print by Zuda Comics, IDW Publishing, Image Comics, Alternative Comics, and Top Shelf Productions. And his most recent project the Crow published by IDW. http://www.kevincolden.com/ http://jkwoodwardart.blogspot.com/ http://thetaylornetwork.wordpress.com/

In this episode we talk to Kevin Colden is an Eisner Award-nominated, Xeric Grant winning American comic book writer and artist. Primarily known as a webcomics artist, his work has been published in print by Zuda Comics, IDW Publishing, Image Comics, Alternative Comics, and Top Shelf Productions. And his most recent project the Crow published by IDW. http://www.kevincolden.com/ http://jkwoodwardart.blogspot.com/ http://thetaylornetwork.wordpress.com/

In this episode we talk to Kevin Colden is an Eisner Award-nominated, Xeric Grant winning American comic book writer and artist. Primarily known as a webcomics artist, his work has been published in print by Zuda Comics, IDW Publishing, Image Comics, Alternative Comics, and Top Shelf Productions. And his most recent project the Crow published by IDW. http://www.kevincolden.com/ http://jkwoodwardart.blogspot.com/ http://thetaylornetwork.wordpress.com/

Collected Comics Library Podcast #275 - The two hundred seventy fifth podcast! Digital DC Comics; Vertigo 2011; Vampirella HC from Dynmaite; A Few New Releases of the Week; Interview with Chris Staros, Publisher of Top Shelf Productions; Running time: 45m 56s Collected Comics Library, hosted by Chris Marshall, THE Trade Paperback Podcast. The only podcast solely dedicated to news, information and reviews on all sorts of comic book collected editions.

Get ready for a vintage (sort of) interview with Brett Warnock and Chris Staros, creators of Top Shelf Productions, one of the biggest indie comics publishers in the industry. Listen in as Brett and Chris divulge valuable insights on the creation and nurturing of their indie publishing powerhouse.

Intro and outro provided by Eddie Meeks from his album "After this...I'll holla on Everything I Love" Thanks for listening and tuning in to the Direct Edition where you get the latest news & opinion on Comics, Games, Movies, and Anime. For more news check out http://www.ustream.tv/channel/direct-edition http://www.youtube.com/user/TheSpinnerRack On this Episode we discuss the legal ramifications on the battle between DC Comics and the family of Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster over the rights to Superman. The Surrogates movie based off of the Top Shelf Productions comics miniseries starring Bruce Willis. Batman: Arkham Asylum an action-adventure stealth video game based on DC Comics' Batman for All platforme. It was developed by Rocksteady Studios and published by Eidos Interactive in conjunction with Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and DC Comics. Marvel Anime of Iron Man and Wolverine. My Podcast Alley feed! {pca-5b312663818590e250192a97f06e452b}

Writer/Artist Jeff Lemire talks about his two current projects from Vertigo. The Nobody an OGN/mystery with an indie spin on the invisible man tale.We also preview Sweet Tooth, his "Bambi meets The Road Warrior" action suspense series that debuts in September. This follows the post apocalyptic story of a mutated deer-boy and his bounty hunter protector  as they seek sanctuary and answers to the questions of this strange North American future. Jeff also gives us details of the Essex County Trilogy Omnibus edition coming out from Top Shelf Productions .

Collected Comics Library Podcast #214 - The two hundred fourteenth podcast! Gemstone and the EC Archives; A Few New Releases of the Week; Interview with Chris Staros, Publisher of Top Shelf Productions; Running time: 33m 01s Collected Comics Library, hosted by Chris Marshall, THE Trade Paperback Podcast. The only podcast solely dedicated to news, information and reviews on all sorts of comic book collected editions.