Dec 31, 2010

Junketsu + Kareshi Chp 6


Happy New Year everyone! Look what I have for you!

Links to "Junketsu + Vampire" chapter 6:  (Zip -- high quality) (PDF-- medium quality, but convenient)  -- Retired

It looks like this is the last chapter of the first volume and the first story arc.  I'll put out an announcement on this blog when the first volume is released along with links for you to purchase the manga.  If you like this series, you should purchase the book to give thanks to Shouto-sensei.

Spoilers ahead ---
And now my thoughts on the chapter.  Finally, we see Kana begin to internalize her situation and it's very interesting to me that this all happens in a fire.  Fire has all kinds of meanings.  I think of fire as a cleanser and also in reference to the myth of the Phoenix -- a mythical bird that resurrects from its own ashes.  Finally Kana understands that she's truly undead and confronts the horror or feeling pain while being indestructible.  In fire, though, this is basically hell -- eternally on fire but never burning.  I hope the next chapter spends some more time with Kana thinking about her situation and her purpose.

The Aki/Shiranui buddy duo is solidified.  I like this buddy pair a lot and I look forward to seeing more of their interactions.

Next up is Magnolia chapter 6 and the first chapter of the companion series "Lily."

Happy New Year from Your Favorite Lala and Lala DX Mangakas!

Here are some New Year's messages from some of the artist featured in Lala and Lala DX magazine.  I didn't have time to translate the messages and I don't know if I will find time soon.   Anyhow, if you can't read Japanese, then look at the pretty pictures and imagine that each one of them says "Happy New Year" + "Let's do our best in the New Year", because that pretty much sums them up (although a few are a little more personal and describe a major event for them in the 2010.)

Anyhow...click on the images to see a larger version.


And, Happy New Year to everyone from the folks at Omari's Sister!  We look forward to another great year of bringing you lots of manga and anime fun.

Dec 30, 2010

"Kimi ni XOXO" Chapter 4

"Kimi ni XOXO" is back for the final two chapters.  I'm sorry it's been a while since a release, but this chapter was really hard to clean (poor quality raw) and had a lot of redrawing to do.  Because of the difficulty I want to acknowledge the contributions of Chiresakura who helped clean and Ichigo Stars who did all of the difficult redraws.  Without them, this chapter wouldn't have come out nearly as well as it did.

Links to "Kimi ni XOXO" chapter 4:  (Zip) (PDF)

I wanted to release chapter 5 right after chapter 4, but again because of cleaning and redrawing challenges, it didn't get done before Aria 2 came out.  The chapter is cleaned, though, but untranslated.  I've decided to move on to the Aria 2 series and then circle back to finish chapter 5.  This way I won't be rushed to translate, Ichi won't be rushed to complete the redraws, and the readers (myself included) get a dose of "J+K" and "Magnolia" immediately.

Next up are J+K chapter 6, "Magnolia" chapter 6, and the first chapter of "Lily".  After those, we'll swing back and complete "Kimi ni XOXO" chapter 5.

Dec 27, 2010

"Lily" in Itan Magazine!

Update!:  Lily Themed desktop wallpaper set!  (Link -- the second button is the download button)
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Our prayers have been answered!  It's a Lily themed Magnolia companion series of extra stories!  Yes! It's "Magnolia" from Lily's perspective!  I will release this opening chapter with Magnolia Chp 6!  Unfortunately, Itan is only published every three months and the next one-shot will be in Itan 5, which means the next chapter of "Lily" won't be out until the end of June.

Dec 25, 2010

"In Jack Out" Update

"In Jack Out" will be presented in two parts in Betsuhana 2 and 3.  Considering that February is shot, I think I will save "In Jack Out" until both parts are released in Japanese.  I'm also on the fence about doing the project.  The first part of the story doesn't catch my eye.  I think I will know after the second half whether I want to do the mini-series.  If I  decide to do the series, then I will present the entire 92-page story after February.  This means that Orange Chocolate goes back on the schedule and we will check-up while the series is on hiatus.

Dec 23, 2010

Lala 2 2011

I have Lala 2!  Yuki from "Vampire Knight" is on the cover this time.  The freebie is a Nyanko-sensei pouch.

It's very cute.  I kinda wish it was an oven mitt.

Here's what we'll be translating from Lala 2:

  • "Kimi ni XOXO" chapter 5 -- it's the final chapter so we will go ahead and release it back-to-back with chapter 4 so we can complete that series now.
  • Special four-panel comic shorts
  • Ouran one-shot previews!
  • One-Shot:  "Nejimaki Mano-san" (will be translated later in the year)
  • One-Shot:  "Kashikomi Mousu!" (will be translated later in the year)

Dec 19, 2010

Pika Ichi Chapter 5 -- A lot Better than chapters 3 and 4


Pika Ichi is always such a long slog!  Fortunately, this chapter is much better than chapters 3 and 4, except for idol chick.  She really needs to go away.  Anyhow... in this chapter Dougen finally enters the scene and he may be as some of you expected.  I think most of us are hoping for a Tarou-Hanako-Dougen love triangle.  That could be interesting, but Tarou's heart is fragile and I would hate to see him suffer.

Random Thoughts on the Child Protection Law Passed in Japan

First of all, I'm trying to get some clear information on the ban.  So far what I've gathered is that law is trying to establish what's okay to sell to minors and what should be sold to adults only.  So in this sense, I don't think it's a ban on manga so much as a clarification as to what's appropriate to sell to minors.

I think we all know from the selection of manga I chose for this group that I don't choose series with even modest amounts of violence or sexuality or series that depict inappropriate acts towards minors.  In my private life I do read manga that I would consider outside the scope of this group, but I don't read or watch any manga or anime that I would consider gratuitously violent or sexual.  In general, I believe that adults should have the right to choose their entertainment as long as it doesn't harm anyone.  As for minors, I believe parents should help their children choose appropriate material and that parents should know what their children are reading.

The question for me comes down to what can harm other people.  I am against the depiction of harmful acts to children either real or drawn unless it is in the service of the story and that story has something to teach.  There are a great many stories where a character's childhood trauma shapes the personality of the character.  These are important stories to tell (for instance "I Know why the Caged Bird Sings".)  However, I don't approve of stories that depict such things for shock value or titillation. This doesn't mean it should be ban, it just means that I will not consume it.  I don't believe that violent or sexual material drive deviant behavior, rather I believe people interested in deviant behavior seek such materials out.  It's easy to blame an outside influence for crimes rather than to blame the person themselves.  I will say, though, that rape and murder existed long before people drew it, so purging such materials will not make one ounce of difference.

As for homosexuality, homosexuals exist.  Get over it.  Again, adults should be able to choose their entertainment and parents should help their children choose appropriate materials.  However, for parents, I think if they know their child is struggling with questions of their sexuality, that it may be a comfort to the child to read material that affirms that struggle.

In general, I have a great appreciation for artists who are able to convey trauma, tragedy, violence, and sexuality without actually showing the graphic details of it.  I feel it's best to leave some of these things to the imagination.  In this sense, I think the Japanese law is an invitation for artists to try harder with their story telling. Seriously, how many more stories do we need about students in relationships with their teachers?

I'm trying my best to find some concrete facts about the law and when I have located some reliable sources, I will share them with you all.  As of now, though, I think it's too early for any of us to get riled up or believe anything out on unvetted manga blogs and websites.  Everything I've seen so far has been hyperbole.

If you have a concrete vetted source of info, please leave a comment.  If you have some thoughts to share on the matter, also leave a comment.

Dec 15, 2010

February is Shot to Hell

Update:  Jury duty postponed until March!
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I got a Federal Jury Duty notice today for the month of February...I'll do what I can while waiting...but, I plan on most of February and the beginning of March being mostly manga-less...BUT it is an honor to serve my fellow citizens in this way.

Dec 13, 2010

Manga Review: "Skyblue Shore"

"Skyblue Shore" by Nanpei Yamada and published in English by TokyoPop has to be the most boring manga I've ever read.  I struggled through the entire first volume because I love "Orange Chocolate" so much.  But, alas, this first volume is a lifeless turd.  Basically, it's a beach themed slice-of-life drama.  There's a pointless love triangle between two 16-year olds and 25-year old man and boring bit-- plays the useless 4th wheel.  I'd like to thank TokyoPop for leaving most of the effects untranslated and for a translation that includes the phrase, "back in the day" coming from the mouth of an uber-innocent 15-year old girl.  FAIL.  I weep for Yamada-sensei...

Dec 11, 2010

New Manga: "Makami-sama no Iu Toori"

I've read the first two chapters of "Makami-sama no Iu Toori!" ("Accord to Makami-sama!" -- Makami = true + God) by Takako Shigematsu and it's good for a Shigematsu series.  The story begins when Tamao at the age of two is abandoned in the forest by her mother.  A male God takes her in and raises her in the forest until the age of 8.  At age 8, the god, who Tamao refers to as her master, leaves her in the care of the Asuka family who happen to have a son, Kengo, who is the same age as Tamao.  Kengo is kind boy and tries to get the shy Tamao to open up and participate in school.  But Tamao is obsessed with the promised return of her master and is reclusive for the most part.  She only lights up when talking about her master, which Kengo thinks is cute and he gets obsessed with getting Tamao to feel the same way about him.  Fast forward 8 years and Tamao is now a 16-year girl with raging hormones who fantasizes continuously about her master and these fantasies end with her erupting into explosive nose bleeds.  Kengo is super-attached to Tamao and accuses her of having a "father complex"...but...the added wrinkle is that Kengo is a now a super-handsome teen fashion model and girls practically hurt themselves to get near him.  They go into jealous and violent rages toward Tamao because she is Kengo's singular focus.

One day, conveniently, Kengo's mom decides to join her husband on an extended business trip leaving Kengo and Tamao in the house alone.  Kengo is overjoyed...but...Tamao "doesn't see him" and is now talking about her master's imminent return.  Her master does return and she runs outside to meet him.  To Kengo's surprise her "father" is a gorgeous man who casts the shadow of a beast.  Kengo measures himself against Tamao's master but thinks he's no match physically. And then Tamao lays a bombshell on poor fragile Kengo -- her master is not blood related.  What's poor Kengo to do...?  Of course, ask Tamao's master live with them until he figures out a plan...and so the "fun" begins...

Like I said in the beginning, "Makami-sama no Iu Toori" it's good for a Shigematsu series, but it's not OS material.  The main male character, Kengo, is interesting, but as typical of  Shigematsu's other female lead characters, Tamao is incredibly weak and obsessed with an older man.  And as typical of Shigematsu's old male targets of obsession, Tamao's master is a manipulative bastard.  There is no actual sexual content.  Tamao's fantasies are interrupted before they go anywhere near being "dangerous".  But still, the series reeks too much of a middle school girl's father figure fantasy and in that sense the series is a little "eww..." Maybe another group that specializes in that kind of "eww" will take it on.  As for me, this series is officially off my radar.  Will I continue reading it in Japanese?  Probably not.  It's not the story itself, but rather I feel it's a matter of me being in the wrong demographic to enjoy this story.

Dec 10, 2010

Orange Chocolate Chapter 20


Finally, we come to the end of the whole "Alice in Wonderland" photo shoot arc, but unfortunately, this isn't the end of the need for Hal.  Hal seriously bugs me, but I guess that's his duty.  Most of this chapter is fan service with a nice pair of surprises from Ritsu.  Chiro, though, finally asks a rather important question -- why does Ritsu have to be an onnagata?  Yeah, it's traditional, but Ritsu actually seems to enjoy it.

Links to "Orange Chocolate" Chapter 20:  (Zip) (PDF)

The next four chapters of Orange Chocolate is an arc about the school's sport's festival with the obligatory cavalry contest.  Hopefully, there's a good reason for going down with well worn-out path.  Next month, though, we will take a break from "Orange Chocolate" and instead present Yamada-sensei's one-shot "In Jack Out".  Orange Chocolate ended on chapter 24 before going on hiatus.  The series will resume late February.  The hiatus will give us some time to catch up on the translation.

I had intended to translate the Christmas one-shot "Merry Unbalance Christmas" now, but I just got "Akagami no Shirayukihime" chapter 22 today and Zen finally grows a "pair".  As for the pretty boy and who Shirayuki is...it looks like we have to wait longer...boo.  Regardless, I don't want to keep myself or anyone else waiting, so I will get started on it right away.  Also, I'm now eagerly awaiting chapter 23.  Anyhow,  please see the release schedule for the latest schedule changes.

Dec 8, 2010

Ouran High School Host Club Volume 15 is Out! Buy it Now!

A great many of you should be good consumers and buy Ouran volume 15 since so many of you read it and claim to LOVE it and Bisco Hatori.  Put your money where your mouth is and give Ouran and Hatori-sensei some love!  In fact!  I have set up a special area in the store just for Ouran goods! (Include all available volumes from Viz, clothes, plushies, and various other items I thought were cute)

Link to Ouran Goods at Omari's Sister's Amazon Store

Buy stuff for yourself!  Buy stuff to give to an Ouran fan for Christmas!

Dec 7, 2010

New Manga Purchases: Nov 10 - Dec 7, 2010

If you want to buy some of these books, please consider buying them from the Omari's Sister's Amazon Store.  Support your favorite manga series and put a nickel in my pocket.   A great many of you should be good consumers and buy Ouran volume 15 since so many of you read it and claim to LOVE it and Bisco Hatori.  Put your money where your mouth is and give Ouran and Hatori-sensei some love!  In fact!  I have set up a special area in the store just for Ouran goods! (Include all available volumes from Viz, clothes, plushies, and various other stuff I thought was cute)

Link to Ouran Goods at Omari's Sister's Amazon Store

    Dec 3, 2010

    Junketsu + Kareshi Chp 5


    Here is "Junketsu + Kareshi" Chapter 5!  The cliffhanger from chapter 4 is resolved very unexpectedly, and now it makes me wonder what direction this story is taking.  I like that I was surprised in this manner, though, because what happened took courage to do.  It's definitely not cliched :).

    Links to "Junketsu + Kareshi" Chapter 5: (Zip) (PDF) -- Retired

    On the matter of Aki -- I feel bad that no matter how hard he tries, hypnotism does not work on Kana.  That said though, Aki really is quite possessive and generally sinister.  But the end of the chapter I was wondering whether he continues to be the underlying cause of Shiranui's problems at school.

    Kana does seem to be a perfect balance for Aki.  She accepts his nature and approaches him head on (perhaps that is why Aki is unable to hypnotize her).  I think it's interesting the way she thinks of her role as "Aki's" and how she is able to conduct her life normally while assuming this role.  But what exactly does Aki want? and why doesn't he realize what he already has?  In this sense, Aki is very much like a infant dependent on Kana as a mother.  Hahaha!  Aki has a lot of growing up to do!  I kind feel bad that Kana x Shiranui isn't the focus of the story.  I really like Kana and Shiranui together.  She makes no judgment about his tendency to brawl and she seems to accept that's part of him.  That's pretty amazing, but at the same time just rolling with the situation does bring about peace of mind most people can't have.

    Enough of my rambling ;p.  Next up is "Magnolia" Chapter 5 followed by "Orange Chocolate" Chapter 20.  Also new under ongoing projects, the "somethings new" have been added!  We will begin the series "Yukarism" and "Yuurei Apaato Kanrinin" toward the end of this month if there is time!  I thought I was going to start "Jiu Jiu", but when I looked at it amongst the series we already do, somehow it felt redundant.  I'm still looking for a good home for "Pika Ichi", but until that home is found we will continue it.

    Hana to Yume Girly All-Star Calendar


    Yay! Check out the lovely freebie calendar that comes with Hana to Yume issue 1/2011!  I will be making wallpaper after I get through with the high priority releases for this month.  Anyhow, if you want your own calendar to hang on your wall, buy yourself a copy of the magazine.  I bought mine at Sanseido Book Store.  Unfortunately, Amazon Japan doesn't stock Hana to Yume, so I can't provide you with a link.  Akadot, though, does stock the magazine, but it comes in stock 4 - 6 weeks after the Japanese release.  I will provide a link to Akadot when the magazine in in stock.

    Anyhow...my favorite page is the "Hana to Akuma" illustration for January 2011.  Now if only the editors of Lala magazine would reconsider and put out a decent calendar.

    Dec 1, 2010

    December at Omari's Sister

    November went better than expected :).  We managed to put out some great releases and spent a lot time spinning our wheels on Pika Ichi.

    Onto December!  Our wonderful cleaner Silver Lunar is taking a break, so I decided to recruit some more people to fill in and to help out in the future.  I've decided to stretch my project management skills by taking on more people so we can get the work planned done.  We'll see how this goes...I pray my head doesn't explode.

    There is too much good stuff out there and it frustrates me because we can't do it all.  Anyhow...I'm still grappling with the schedule, so bear with me.  Regardless, our priority this month is to release the Aria series ("J+K", "Magnolia", "Zoo" , and "Pika Ichi") and the second Christmas Themed one-shot, "Merry Unbalanced Christmas".  If there's time, we will also do "Orange Chocolate" chapter 20.   The hectic holidays will knock us off our pace, so we will be playing catch-up the first few months of 2011.

    I hope everyone is enjoying the winter holidays!

    Nov 29, 2010

    Really Nice Wall Calendar in Asuka 1/2011 -- Buy it Now!


    Do you want this sweet wall calendar? Well then buy yourself a copy of Asuka Magazine 1/2011.

    Buy Asuka 1/2011 on Amazon Japan (Link)
    Buy Asuka 1/2010 from Akadot (Coming Soon)

    You can also get the magazine from Sanseido Books.  Call them up and they'll deliver it to you if you are in the US.

    I can't scan this calendar because it's actually too big to fit on my scanner when opened.  Anyhow, it features:
    • "Psychic Detective Yakumo"
    • "Barajou no Kiss"
    • "Betrayal Knows my Name"
    • "Kyou Kara Maoh", etc...
    This issue also comes with mini post cards and a "Psychi Detective Yakumo" DVD!

    @oloore -- Here's a picture of the cheesy Lala Calendar in comparison.

    It's about the size of a small postcard.  Don't buy Lala 1 for this.  Buy Lala 1 for the manga instead...I hope they come out with another calendar mid-year.

    Aria 1

    I have Aria 1/2011.  Here is a list of the what we will translate from this issue:
    • Junketsu + Kareshi Chp 5
    • Magnolia Chp 5
    • Pika Ichi Chp 5
    • Zoo Chp 2
    We will be skipping the one-shot "Heart Stealer" because it looks lame.

    Support Aria magazine to support your favorite series and mangakas!

    Link to purchase Aria 1 from Amazon Japan
    Link to purchase Aria 1 for Akadot

    "In Jack Out" Preview -- Nanpei Yamada's New Project

    Click on the image to see a larger version.

    Here's the preview for Nanpei Yamada's new project "In Jack Out".  If I understood this correctly, this is a prequel to an actual series.  Hmm...Cyber-Idol...My initial reaction is *ugh*, but "Orange Chocolate" is good, so we'll give this one-shot a chance.

    "Folklore Reindeer" Postponed

    We will not be doing "Folklore Reindeer" at this time.  It's very challenging to clean and it will swamp us, keeping us from being able to work on other projects. I think what's best is to release "Folklore Reindeer" with its companion one-shot "Allegoria Lion" sometime later in 2011.  It will be something we'll work on in the background for now.

    Nov 27, 2010

    Recruitment: Cleaners Needed

    We need a couple of cleaners to help out at Omari's Sister.  I would prefer folks who have cleaned before, but if you have Photoshop and know how to use it, I'm willing to train you.  If you are an experienced cleaner who can also help with some of the redrawing, you get double hugs!  If you are interested, contact me, Kuroneko003, using the Contact Link in the top menu of this blog.

    Nov 24, 2010

    Orange Chocolate is on Hiatus until February 2011

    "Orange Chocolate" is going on hiatus until the end of February so Yamada-sensei can work on a new project.  Fortunately, we are 4 chapters behind, so none of the readers of this blog will feel lapse between chapters.  I will update this entry later with more news about Yamada-sensei's new project.

    One-Shot: "Furou Kyoudai" The Long Version


    Phew! We managed to get this done before Thanksgiving madness goes full-swing!  Anyhow, here is the long version of Furou Kyoudai!  The story is the same as short version, however, there's more detail and character development.  I really enjoy this sibling pair and I hope Hakusensha allows Shiwasu-sensei to turn this into a series.

    Links to the long version of "Furou Kyoudai": (Zip) (PDF)

    There is a 40-page follow on "Furou Kyoudai" one-shot.  We will try to release it early in the new year.

    Next up is J+K and Magnolia.   December will be nuts because of the holidays and vacation plans, so please don't expect to see J+K and Magnolia within a week after I receive Aria.  Please check the release schedule for the latest release dates.  We'll do our best, but at the same time, it's a special time of year to spend with our families and friends.  So enjoy the holiday season and we'll be back in full-swing January :).

    Happy Thanksgiving to folks in the US!  And for heaven's sake, don't bring your manga to the dinner table...put it down and eat...

    Nov 21, 2010

    One-shot Sequels!!!


    W00t!  Well, color me happy!  Look what came with Hana to Yume Issue 24/2010!  A wonderful book with sequels to "The Scarecrow of Oz" and "Furou Kyoudai." *Hana to Akuma Spoilers Ahead*  Also in Hana to Yume issue 24 is the final chapter of "Hana to Akuma" which features (highlight white space to read) Hana and Vivi's wedding and off into the distant future -- half demon half human babies!!!  Unfortunately, Hana got old and died...but Vivi's happy happy with his kids.  Don't know what's going on with fandom, but I'm tempted to finish up the last three chapters... Update! It looks like translation of "Hana to Akuma" has resumed!  Hooray for Kokoro no Oasis!

    Oh, and if you are wondering what the other two one-shots are, I don't know yet, but I'll find out and see if they are worth translating.

    Anyhow, a bunch of unanticipated manga and vacations got thrown at me, so I have to re-prioritize and re-jigger the schedule for the next few months.  There's too much good stuff and not enough staff.  But, as a "manager" I cannot take on anymore staff...so I have re-jigger things.

    Nov 18, 2010

    Pika Ichi Chapter 4 -- Love, Hate, and General Frustration...

    Here is "Pika Ichi" chapter 4.  I continue to like the main characters, Tarou and Hanako, and the side characters; Manaka, Dr. Murase, and Ibuki (introduced in this chapter), but the general story suffers from poor execution.  I was ready to throw up my hands and quit the series after about 10-pages into translating this chapter, until after banging my head on my desk a few times and then breaking into hysterical laughter, it all became clear.  I'm taking the bullying aspect of this story way too seriously and I'm probably ultra-sensitive because at the time I started the translation, the bullying induced suicides were all over the news in the US.  So I adjusted my point of view and began to think of the bullying as a "McGuffin" and the student mob as a mob of brainless zombies.  As a story about a handful of students and a brave doctor facing the zombie apocalypse, things made sense to me and I could focus on the aspects of the story I like, which would be the character development and the lovely artwork.  The second hurdle was doing something about some of the flat or just plain bad dialog.  So I will inform you now, for the most part I translated the chapter faithfully, but I did punch up some of the dialog to bring it up to high school level and to speed up and maintain the pacing.

    I will continue onto chapter 5 because I want to know more about the characters.  How did they get this way?  What's motivating them? And how will they change?  But...it will be a chapter by chapter commitment and, so, I'll face the question of whether to continue after looking at chapter 5.  I really wish, though, that the chapters weren't so freaking long!!!  UGH!!!  I'd much rather have fat "Magnolia" chapters!  Magnolia!!!!  UGH, the pain of waiting is almost too much!!!

    Here are the links!

    Links to "Pika Ichi" chapter 4:  (Zip) (PDF)

    Anyhow, give the chapter a read and let me know what you think about it.  If a lot of you want to try something new, I will gladly oblige.  There are 4 replacement series on my mind that I would love to give a try and one is already in preparation :).  And, oh, by the way, take the survey in the upper right corner of this blog!

    Nov 13, 2010

    Ouran Bookmarks from Lala Special


    It you want this set of bookmarks, order yourself a copy of the December 2010 issue of the Lala Special. Links:

    Lala Special from Amazon Japan: Link
    Lala Special from Akadot: (I'll post the link when it's in stock)

    The short special Ouran chapter will be released tomorrow along with the preview for the 60-page one-shot sequel coming in Lala 3 in late January 2011.

    Nov 9, 2010

    New Manga Purchases: Oct 23 - Nov 9, 2010

    • Chobits Omnibus 1 (Clamp) -- 720-pages! Contains color pages! It's very nice!
    • Chobits Omnibus 2 (Clamp) -- 688-pages! Contains color pages! It's very nice!
    • Clover Omnibus (Clamp) -- 512-pages! Contains color pages! It's very nice!
    • Cardcaptor Sakura Omnibus 1 (Clamp) -- 576-pages! Currently on sale for $13.49 on Amazon -- This omnibus contains Volumes 1 - 3, along with a lot of beautiful color pages.  It's big and high quality.  Most of the sound effects and dialog that is not in bubbles are left in Japanese with the English translation close by.  In a few cases no translation is provided which is a little frustrating.  Anyhow, if you've never read Cardcaptor Sakura, please do.  It really is delightful.  It reminds me of the many daydreams I had of being a magical girl when I was about 8 or 9-years old.  Oh, and the color pages are gorgeous! Some of them look like the artwork used for the introductory pages from its magazine serialization.  I highly recommend buying this if you are a Clamp fan or a fan of the series.  5/5
    • Yours and My Secret Volumes 3 and 4 (Ai Morinaga)
    • V. B. Rose Volume 10 (Banri Hidaka) -- Ageha goes shopping with Arisaka mom, Ran, and learns about Arisaka's sad childhood.  I wanted to slap Ran.  Anyhow, it's a good read.  3.5/5
    • Apothecarius Argentum Volume 7 (Tomomi Yamashita) -- out of print, but you can still buy copies from used book sellers through Amazon.
    If you are considering purchasing any of these books, please consider purchasing from Omari's Sister's Amazon store.

    A note about the omnibus additions:  The Clamp omnibus editions from Darkhorse are wonderful!  They are high quality and contain color pages with lots of original artwork.  These are truly great printed manga experiences!  I hope to see more Omnibus editions of manga series in the future.

    Nov 7, 2010

    Teaser: Orange Chocolate Chapters 18 and 19

    Here's a little teaser to get you ready for the double release of "Orange Chocolate" chapters 18 and 19.  I decided to do a double release because these two chapters go together well and it would be cruel to keep you all waiting in between chapters.  Also, I didn't want to break the emotional momentum that builds in chapter 18.


    We're aiming for the release of both chapters on the 10th and it looks like we are going to be able to deliver :).

    Nov 4, 2010

    November 2010 at Omari's Sister

    Yikes!  This post is late!  It kept slipping my mind because I was so excited about "Junketsu + Kareshi" and "Magnolia."

    October was quite a productive month!  Officially we got out 10 releases, but we did manage to get J+K out about an hour before the end of the month for a total of 11 releases!  I don't think we be able to be that productive again, especially as we head into the holiday season.  With the passing of October, we say goodbye to one of our cleaners Tedhi.  I'm sorry to see her go, but when real life calls, you gotta respond.  I thank her for her excellent work and I wish her luck in the future.

    Onto November!  Things towards the end of the month will get slow with Thanksgiving and then I will be on a semi-vacation for the 3-weeks following Thanksgiving.  My hope is to be on actual vacation for one of those weeks.  Anyhow...We've already released "J+K" and Magnolia, so here's a list of what we have planned for the rest of the month.

    • Orange Chocolate Chapters 18 and 19 Double Release
    • Pika Ichi Chapter 4
    • One-shot:  Akuma Yashiki no Kyouikugakari ("The Devil Mansion's Instructor") -- Joint with Hyper Parfait!
    • Ouran extras for Lala Special
    If we finish ahead of schedule, then there will be a special Fall one-shot.

    Nov 3, 2010

    I Love my Cleaners!

    Parody courtesy of Silver Lunar
    Silver Lunar, Kumiko, and Suzume.Soshi, thank you so much for the great work you do!

    Winter One-shots!

    Here's a list on the Winter-themed one-shots planned for December and January

    December:
    • "Folklore no Tonakai" -- "Folklore Reindeer" by Mizuno Tohko ("Kimi ni XOXO") -- A young lady has to choose a husband by Christmas, but due to a momentary lapse in sanity the men around her have frightening animal heads!?

    • "Marii to Santa" -- "Marie and Santa" by Nigushi Keiko -- Santa crashes into a tree and spends an evening with a practical but sweet little girl.  It's short and super cute!

    January:
    • "World End Garden" -- "The Garden at the End of the World" by Shiina Dai -- Girl gets lost in the snow and is captured by a yeti-like creature who plans to eat her.  But that's only the beginning ;p.  It goes from "WTH" to "Dawwww" in 40-pages.
    • "Kare to Kanojo no Futoumin" -- "His and Her Sleepless Winter" (un-hibernation) by Nari Kusakawa -- Unrequited love and serious winter loveliness!  I'm so excited!

    Look forward to them!

    Nov 1, 2010

    Ouran High School Host Club is Retired

    I have retired "Ouran High School Host Club."  We will translate any follow-on work or series.

    Oct 31, 2010

    Happy Halloween: Junketsu + Kareshi Chapter 4


    I can't believe we finished this before the end of Halloween night!  It was such a joy translating and editing the images in the chapter :).  I love handling beautiful drawings!  I couldn't redraw the intro color 2-page spread, but I did redraw/extrapolate the gap between the pages of a very important scene.  All hail the mighty PhotoShop Pen Tool! Anyhow Happy Halloween!

    Links to "Junketsu + Kareshi" chapter 4 (Zip) (PDF) -- Retired

    I don't know what to make of the ending, but I'm guessing this is the end of the "prologue" and now we get into the meat of the story.  I wonder who's gonna go ape-sh** in chapter 5 after such a threat?  Will it be Kana, Aki, or Shiranui?  Personally, I hope it's Kana.  But I guess we'll just have to wait and see in Chapter 5.

    Next up is "Magnolia."  Ahhh, yes,  "Lover Boy" moves quickly...and I'm sorry to report, that we will not fully find out the answer to the question in the poll because Lover Boy is just too intoxicating and hogs the entire chapter.   So, we'll have to wait until chapter 5 to see how that bomb drops.  But, I like Lover Boy, so I'm looking forward to translating the chapter.

    Oct 29, 2010

    Aria 12


    I have Aria 12!

    The good news is that "Pika Ichi" diverges from the pattern I was detecting and quite possibly could be a short series. We will add it back to this month's schedule.

    We will be doing:
    • Junketsu + Vampire Chp 4 (Kana biting and a werewolf! W00t!!!)
    • Magnolia Chp 4 (Dance Ayato, dance!)
    • Pika Ichi Chp 4 (Friends!)
    • One-Shot:  "Akuma Yashiki" (Horror Comedy Fun!)
    Link to Purchase Aria 12 from Amazon Japan.
    Link to Purchase Aria 12 from Akadot

      Oct 27, 2010

      You MUST Buy Betsuhana 12!

      If you love "Shitsuji-sama no Okiniiri" then you MUST buy Betsuhana 12 for this premium freebie!

      It is 7 x 10-in, 16-pages, and printed on thick semi-gloss (nicely calendered) paper.  Also, a lot of the book is in English.  Hmmm...  Why couldn't Hatori-sensei give us something like this for Ouran!? 

      Link to purchase Betsuna Hana from Amazon Japan.  I'll put up another link to Akadot once the magazine is in stock.

      I will make some wallpaper from this book for the winter holidays :).

      Ooh, ooh! And on top of this is the debut of the new series by Chika Shiomi ("Resetsu" and "Yurara no Tsuki").  It's called "Yakari Zumu" (please forgive the really awful iPhone picture -- two pages together is too big for my scanner):

      "Seirei Produce" Update #2

      I have Asuka 12 and yes, Miyagi Tooko is starting a new series in Asuka 1/2011.  She and another artist/writer are doing yet another retelling of  "The Story of Genji."  So...I guess after chapter 6, I'll count "Seirei Produce" as complete.

      Oct 25, 2010

      Favorite New Series Poll Results and "Pika Ichi"

      Here are the results of the poll about what your favorite new series is:

      Magnolia 28% (87 votes)
      Pika Ichi 26% (80 votes)
      Junketsu + Vampire 46% (145 votes)

      I'm not surprised that "J+K" won by a wide margin. However, I am surprised at how closely "Magnolia" and "Pika Ichi" are.  The main reason I put out this poll was to gauge "Pika Ichi."  I felt the first two chapters were great, but I was greatly let down by the third chapter and I see a very mediocre and predicable path ahead for the series.  My mentality always seeks what's optimum, so if it's not working for me and the other group members, and, I see a better opportunity, I'm inclined to go for for new opportunity.  And so the question for me is whether to continue along with "Pika Ichi" or take a chance on another series?  I do have another series in mind and it's one with more action and intrigue.  At the same time, though, I hate to subject the readers of this blog to my whims.  The ideal solution would be for us to pass "Pika Ichi" off to another group who feels passionately about the series.  If you belong to or know of another group that would like take over "Pika Ichi" please contact me via the "Contact" link at the top of this blog.  In the mean time, we will continue "Pika Ichi," but the release schedule will not be as regular.

      Oct 23, 2010

      "Seirei Produce" Update

      No word on "Seirei Produce," though from her website, it looks like the mangaka is starting a new series... =_= uh...huh?...Well, I'll find out when I get Asuka 12 on Tuesday.  If it is, indeed, a new series, then I supposed I will put "Seirei Produce" in the completed column and move on.

      Does anybody know what's going on?

      Oct 19, 2010

      New Comment Policy

      Re-posted as a reminder to everyone so you understand why your comment was rejected.

      If you want a manga raw, then buy the magazine or the tankoubon!  There is no magical raw manga website.

      ------------------------

      I understand that many of you are frustrated with changes at One Manga and the other manga aggregation websites.  There is a problem in the manga industry that needs to be worked out and the transition from paper to digital manga is in the works.  Please understand that I support the measures being taken against the manga aggregation websites.  I believe they need share any profits they make with the contributors, both the mangakas and the scanlators. I also believe aggregation websites should not post licensed series in their entirety.  As such, I will not upload or allow uploads of work from this group to the manga aggregation websites.  In light of this, here is a list of comments I will no longer publish on this blog:
      • Questions about where manga is posted online at manga aggregation sites or questions about where to download raws.  All manga available on this blog is and will continue to be obvious and I buy all the materials that this group works on. (There is no super-secret raw manga website.)
      • Requests to post or re-post licensed manga series
      • Any comments disparaging mangaka for wanting to get paid for their labor
      I don't like making rules like these, but I've just received one too many comments of this nature.  If you are really in a bind, please send an e-mail instead so I can address your matter one-to-one.

      Again, I want to stress that I understand your frustration.  I am frustrated too.  I think we all need to be patient and productive and understand on a fundamental level that "free" is not a viable business model.  If you really feel passionate about matters, write the publishers and let them know your thoughts and give them some productive suggestions.  Let's all work towards a solution in which everyone can get the manga they want in an affordable manner that adequately compensates all involved in the creative process.

      Oct 17, 2010

      Halloween Wallpaper!

      Enjoy! (Click to see full-size and download)


      Christmas/Winter Holiday One-Shot Suggestions Wanted!

      The holidays are fast approaching and I would like to do some Christmas, Winter Holiday, or general Winter themed one-shots.  Please send in your suggestions.  Here's a listing of the magazines I have subscriptions to (most back to Sept 2007):

      Lala
      Lala DX
      Hana to Yume
      The Hana toYume
      Bessatsu Hana to Yume
      Aria
      Asuka
      Princess
      Betsucomi (stopped getting that January 2010)
      Betsucomi Extra (stopped getting that January 2010)

      I also have some of the furoku comics books that are holiday themed.

      By the way, the Halloween special will be "Guardian Joker."  There may be something Halloween themed in this week's Hana to Yume.  If so, I may consider sneaking that in instead and moving GJ to November.  We'll see...

      Oct 12, 2010

      Desktop Wallpapers on The Otaku

      Here's a convenient place to get Omari's Sister's desktop wallpapers!  This website conveniently generates the wallpaper in many sizes.  Hopefully, you'll find one that fits your needs.

      Link to Kuroneko003 portfolio on The Otaku.

      I also added this link to the far right had side bar under "Desktop Wallpaper."

      Someone requested another ZHD wallpaper...I'll see what I can do about it ;p.  I can't promise anything, though.

      Zettai Heiwa Daisakusen Chp 19 (Final)


      Here's the final chapter of "Zettai Heiwa Daisakusen."  Thanks for sticking with me on this one.  I started translating this series at chapter 4.  Back then I was just doing summaries.  I'm sad to see this series end, but at the same time, this is great ending.  I'm looking forward to Ogura-sensei's next series!  There's contact address on the volume 3 thank you page if you want to write a letter.  If you do send thanks to Ogura-sensei, make sure you buy at least volume of the manga in Japanese.  It would be rude to thank someone for something you didn't pay for.  Purchase information is here.   I will be getting volume 4 and if there's any extra material I will translate it.

      (Update 10/14/10 -- a small change was made to the translation on page 40)
      Links to "Zettai Heiwa Daisakusen" Chapter 19 + volume 3 Omake (Zip - High Quality) (PDF -- convenient)

      Next up is Pika Ichi chapter 3!

      Oct 8, 2010

      Magnolia Chapter 2

      Update 01/04/2011:  Minor change to page 29 that doesn't impact the story.  The change was made to be consistent with the first "Lily" extra story.

      Update 12/5/2010:  Minor change to the translation of page 8 that does impact the story.  Ayato's father is the only one who doesn't like Vincent.

      Here's Magnolia chapter 2. Chapter 3 will be released on Monday at the latest so you won't have to suffer the cliff-hanger for long.

      Link to Magnolia Chapter 2 (Zip - high quality)(PDF - convenient)

      Starting at chapter 3, Magnolia will become a joint project with Hyper Parfait and Pika Ichi will become an Omari's Sister only project.  The highly stoopid one-shot "Hidaka Muffler" will be released with Magnolia chapter 3.  After that comes the final chapter of "Zettai Heiwa Daisakusen" along with some extras from Volume 3 and then Pika Ichi!

      Oct 3, 2010

      Junketsu + Kareshi Chapter 3



      Wow! There are two beautiful introductory pages in this chapter and this series will appear on the cover of Aria 12!  I can't wait to see what Shouto-sensei comes up with!  This is a fun series so far :).  There is something I'd like to comment on about this chapter, but I'll wait a couple of days for people to read it so I don't spoil the chapter for everyone.

      Links to "Junketsu + Kareshi" chapter 3 (Zip - High Quality) (PDF - lower quality, but convenient) -- Retired
      Link to 1600x1200 pixel J+K wallpaper

      Next up are Magnolia chapters 2 and 3.

      Taking Suggestions for a Halloween One-shot

      Update:  The special Halloween one-shot will be "Guardian Joker"
      ------------------------
      I'd like to do a special story for Halloween, so send in your one-shot suggestions and I'll go digging through my bookshelves.  Also, you can start sending in suggestions for Christmas or Winter themed one-shots.

      Oct 1, 2010

      Junketsu + Kareshi Wallpaper

      The first title page was so pretty that I couldn't help myself.  I did quite a few things to make it look like a painting.  I'm quite pleased :).

      Download: 1600x1200 pixels

      Ordering Information for "Zettai Heiwa Daisakusen"

      As I promised in reply to an anonymous commenter, here is some information so you can support the author by purchasing volumes of "Zettai Heiwa Daisakusen."  First of all some cover images so you can make sure you get the right thing.






      Volume 1






      Volume 2






      Volume 3

      Links:
      Be aware that Amazon Japan charges $30 shipping for the first item and them $3 each item after for International shipping.  Yes, it's expensive, but it's gets to you within two days.  You can also purchase through a third-party seller on Amazon for $12 shipping per item.  Yes Asia offers free shipping in the US for purchases totaling over $40 dollars.  In light of this, it's best to purchase multiple items if you decide to buy from these sources.  Also, if you have a Japanese bookstore in you area, you can try purchasing it or ordering it through them. Depending on the chain, you may not have to pay for shipping.

      I have the books and there are some nice extra color images on the cover flaps.  I will post information for purchasing volume 4 when it is released.

      Sep 30, 2010

      October 2010 at Omari's Sister and Recruiting

      We had another bumpy start this month with computer crashes and family emergencies, but somehow we managed to release 7 chapters of manga including the last chapter of "Ouran High School Host Club"!  Thanks to all of the Omari's Sister crew for a great September!

      Moving onto October...we have a new cleaner, Suzume.  Welcome Suzume!  She will be working on "Pika Ichi."  We only have 6 chapters planned, but I will be making a push to catch up on "Magnolia."  We also have the last chapter of "Zettai Heiwa Daisakusen" coming out this month.  I feel a mixture of happiness and sadness about this.  I will definitely miss the adventures of Johanne and Yuda.

      Here's what's planned:
      • Zettai Heiwa Daisakusen Chp 19 (end)
      • J+K Chp 3
      • Pika Ichi Chp 3
      • Orange Chocolate Chp 18
      • Akagami no Shirayukihime Chp 21
      • Magnolia Chp 2
      For the latest information, please check the release schedule.

      Sep 29, 2010

      Ouran Lala Special Previews


      Ouran High School Host Club Chapter 83


      At last! Here is the final chapter of "Ouran High School Host club." I'd like to thank everyone for hanging in there with me for the last 12-chapters of this series. I've come along way as a translator and an image editor since I reluctantly started this series last year.

      Links to "Ouran High School Host Club" Chapter 83 (Zip)(PDF) -- RETIRED

      Notes:
      • The zip file, also includes the wallpaper.  
      • The zip file has higher image quality than the PDF
      • Page 3 - Merchandise ads
      • Page 4 - Favorite Quotes
      • Page 5 - Results of the drawing contest
      • Page 56 and 57 -- previews for the Ouran "memorial" in Lala Special

      If you enjoyed Ouran and want to reread it, I encourage you to purchase the manga in Japanese or in English.  In the US, volume 1 - 14 are available from Viz.  Here's a convenient link to my Amazon store where you can purchase all the available volumes of Ouran from Viz (currently, there's a 4 manga books for the price of 3 deal going).  At least buy a volume or two to let Viz know you like Ouran and that you want them to continue providing us with similar manga series.  Plus, if you buy from my Amazon store, I'll receive a tiny referral payment.  As for the Japanese version, I recommend purchasing from YesAsia or Amazon Japan.  I think buying the Japanese version will more directly help the mangaka.  Akadot also has volumes of the series available, but their pricing is way too high for me to recommend them for this particular series.

      And finally -- yes, I will translate any new content that appears in the upcoming Lala Special and if there is a following-on series or special Ouran stories in any of the Lala affiliated magazines, I will translate those as well.  Also, I will be purchasing volume 18 in Japanese for the bonus content and if there is more comic material, I will translate it.  Also, as for retirement of the series, it will happen as scheduled at midnight October 31st.  All follow-on content will also be posted for only a month.

      Next up! "Junketsu + Kareshi" Chapter 3 -- *fangurl squee*

      Ouran Final Wallpaper #1

      I'm still waiting for a second proofread on Ouran chp 83 before I officially release it. While you're waiting, here's a treat!

      1600x1200-pixels (download)

      Sep 25, 2010

      Kimi ni XOXO on Hiatus

      I don't see a listing for "Kimi ni XOXO" previews for Lala 12 and I haven't found any news about the continuation of the series.  So, it appears that this series is on hiatus or will be left undone.  I will update the status as soon as I learn anything new.

      Sep 23, 2010

      Ouran 83 Spoiler

      All right everyone!  This should be all the spoiler you need :)


      It will most likely be ready in less than a week because I managed to get a nice clean scan. If you can't wait until then, I'm sure there will be a "fast" version to read earlier :). Regardless, I will be taking my time to give this last chapter a very polished look and to do my best with the translation.  So, please have patience with me. I promise you will be very pleased with the ending :).

      New Manga Purchases: September 2010


      If you are interested in purchasing any of these books, please consider purchasing them through the Omari's Sister Amazon Store.  The first 5 volumes of "Shinobi Life," "Alice in the Country of Hearts" Volume 4, and "Stepping on Roses" Volume 2 are all currently discounted!

      Also, buy my used manga and help me clear my shelves for more new manga! (Link)
      • Vampire Knight Volumes  1 - 8 (Volumes 5 - 7 Purchased!)
      • The Wallflower Volumes, 1- 5, 7, 8, 10, 13, 14, and 16 (Volumes 13 and 14 Purchased!)
      • Rasetsu Volume 1
      All are books lightly used and decently priced. I'll discount your shipping if you buy multiple volumes.

      Sep 17, 2010

      Magnolia Preview

      Parody by Silver Lunar
      Here's a little preview of "Magnolia" to get you ready for what to expect. It hasn't been QCed or proofread yet, so this may not be the final version.  Please open the entire blog entry to view the preview.

      Sep 12, 2010

      September At Omari's Sister

      Things sorta went off the rails at the the beginning of the month (family emergency and computer crash).  I'm back now and I'll be playing catch up next week.  Hopefully, we'll will be able to deliver all that's scheduled this month.  So here's what's coming:

      • Piki Ichi Chp 1 -- 50% typsetting and QC/Proofreading left
      • Seirei Produce Chp 5 -- typesetting and QC/Proofreading left
      • Orange Chocolate Chp 17 (not started)
      • Magnolia Chp 1 -- typesetting and QC/Proofreading left
      • Ouran High School Host Club Chp 83 (The finale) -- awaiting the raw
      Thank you all for your support and patience. For the latest on our progress and the release dates, check the release schedule.

      Sep 7, 2010

      Seirei Produce Hiatus Update

      After chapter 6 "Seirei Produce" is on indefinite hiatus.  I checked the mangaka's website and I didn't see any information on when the series will resume.  All it said is that the series isn't finished.  We will complete the translation through chapter 6 and then resume the translation once the series starts up again.  Hopefully, it won't be too long so people don't lose complete interest in the story.  The series will be replaced by one-shots until it resumes.

      Sep 1, 2010

      Junketsu + Kareshi (Pureblood + Boyfriend) Chp 2


      Finally, a real vampire!  Hopefully, this series won't go rambling off into the weeds and thicket like "Vampire Knight."  I like the two main characters in this series and the artwork is a real pleasure to edit.  As I said in the teaser, I will continue translating this series.

      [Update 10/5/2010: Small translation correction on page 36 (zip) or page 37 (PDF)]
      Links:  "Junketsu + Kareshi" Chapter 2 (ZIP - high quality)(PDF - low quality but convenient) -- Retired

      Next up is another new series from Aria called "Iiki Noki."  Our new member, Blottyparchment did the translation.  I will do the English adaptation.  It should be out in a 3 - 5 days.

      Aug 31, 2010

      Junketsu + Kareshi Chp 2 Teaser

      "Junketsu + Kareshi" chapter 2 delivers!  So we will take this on as a project.  Here's a teaser to get you ready for the next chapter.


      Aug 30, 2010

      Ouran Chp 83 Previews




      Chapter 83 will release on September 24th in Japanese. The translation will be released about a week later.

      Ouran High School Host Club Chp 82


      Here is Ouran Chp 82!

      Link to "Ouran High School Host Club" Chp 82 (Zip)(PDF) -- RETIRED

      Chapter 83 will be the last Ouran chapter!