Anime Explosion

The What? Why? Wow! Of Japanese Animation. A guide to themes and films in the expanding anime megaverse by Patrick Drazen. Book, 320 pgs; Stone Bridge Press. Suddenly anime is exploding! But where did Japanese animation come from, and what does it all mean? Written for fans, culture watchers, and perplexed outsiders, this is an engaging tour of the anime universe, from its roots in traditional Japanese culture and art, its major themes (war and reincarnation, yaoi/yuri/fanboy love, giant robots, samurai) and contemporary expressions. A special section is dedicated to the 15 of fandom's favorite anime, including Escaflowne, Sailor Moon, and Evangelion.