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!
“Great. You’re both out? And you’re fizzed again? Why? Mixing is just a cheap tactic to make bad sodas taste better. Quit embarrassing yourselves! I’ve seen what you really are.“
“Listen Lapis, Mix with me!”
“Huh, what?”
“How long have they kept you on the shelves? They’re traitors to their Homeworld! This is your chance to take revenge!”
Offscreen we can hear Strawberry Fanta!Steven screaming.
