Gene Mapper, by Taiyo Fujii This debut from Japanese author Taiyo Fujii, translated by Jim Hubbert, is set in a post-human future where gene-hacking has radically altered everything from the food we eat to our own bodies. The planet is overpopulated, virtual reality has supplanted most in-person contact, and the food supply is vulnerable to genetic collapse. A scientist named Hayashida discovers that a custom rice plant he engineered has suffered just such a calamity, and suspects a conspiracy. He travels to Ho Chi Min City to hunt down the culprit, but finds a plot that goes far deeper than a simple vendetta. Originally self-published in Japan, this translation introduces a major new voice in SF to Western readers.
Here’s a phrase you’ll hear often in conversations about gentrification: “First, the artists moved in.” It’s a tiny, complicated sentence amidst a gigantic, complicated topic (which I wrote more about here). But embedded in it, you’ll find one of the central acts of…
“Riven Seal is a historical fantasy set in a world where magic has always existed and an onset of demon summoning has brought upon major changes throughout the world. While the story interweaves several plot lines and a diverse cast, a young man named Janus lies at the center of web of fate that connects them all. His encounter with a unbound demon is the catalyst for a series of intrigues and magic that has not been seen in centuries.”
Hey, a fellow Reverie & Spiderforest comic, Riven Seal, is doing a kickstarter!! They used to go by Ianua, but changed their name recently (and their website layout, which looks fucking fantastic, btw) … Same people tho! Check em out, signal boost, and/or support em!
