Comics scholarship is so cool!

Tell me your big brain comic thoughts.

I’ve been looking into the more academic side of publishing and a bucket list accomplishment would be getting printed in a scholarly journal. It feels weird to be considered an academic in comics while also knowing how unserious comics can be BUT also understanding what a huge impact it can make.

1. Horrific “Cults” and Comic Religion by Jolyon Baraka Thomas

I was thinking about how much cult representation in seinen manga such as 20th Century Boys, Good Night Punpun, and Mob Psycho, and was wondering if there was any connection to the Aum Shinrikyo attacks. It’s cool to see that someone out there was seeing the same connection. Sending telekinetic vibes.

2. Serial Selves: Identity and Representation In Autobiographical Comics by Frederik Byrn

   I don’t remember what lead me to this book but immediately, I was hooked. It discusses the importance of autobiographical comics in representing marginalized groups that are often depicted as monoliths. It’s affirming as an autobio creator and just a great reminder that there have been generations before me doing the same thing.

3. Dune by Frank Herbert

I’ve always fucked with the movies so I gotta keep reading the book.

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An Urasawa fan edit I made on Picsart to update my wallpaper.

Cartoon Crossroads has opened applications. Deadline: February 24, 2025.

Comic Arts Richmond has opened applications. Deadline: February 2, 2025.

Savannah Pooler Indie Comics Expo has opened applications.

Global Comic Awards have opened for submissions. Deadline: March 25, 2025.

Mechademia is accepting paper submissions. Deadline: July 1, 2025.