That New Book Feeling – In Triplicate!

From left to right, the German, English and French editions of The Manga Bible by Helen McCarthy. The book covers are identical, a purple background overlaid with manga art, with the book title in bold yellow capitals and other text in white. In the background, enlarged copies of the ENglish cover on advertising boards, one with the launch date, 5 March 2026.

Advance copies of The Manga Bible fell into my eager hands this morning, and after I’d finished inhaling that unique, intoxicating new book smell – equal parts fresh ink, newly cut paper and author excitement – I couldn’t wait to share.

So here they are in all their shiny new massively-illustrated gorgeousness – the English, German and French editions, first off the presses. Over 300 pages in tribute to the genius of manga, replicated in three languages, with several more editions to follow.

I love everything about the way the book is made, from the ace Baron Yoshimoto art on the cover to that retro-tastic colour scheme and the elegant yet playful internal design and layout. Great job from the Ilex/Octopus team; huge thanks to Ellie Corbett, who commissioned and helped me define the book, and Emma Hanson, who brought it to completion. I’m very lucky to work with two such amazing editors.

You won’t be able to see the book until 5 March but I can’t wait to share it, so I’m working with the brilliant PR team at Ilex on ways to present little tasters and snippets between now and the launch date.

So watch this space – there’s more to come! And if you want to review the book or interview me about it, contact publicity@octopusbooks.co.uk and they’ll connect you with the team.