
Books about Japan are one of my main strands. My manga books, normally made in close team work with Japanese artists, are often on themes connected with samurai, martial arts, bushido, shinto, taoism, the Meiji and Edo eras and more contemporary aspects of Japan. Below is the list of our books on Japanese themes, 15 so far. Most of these have their own separate page on this web site, which you can find on the left side list - or click on the cover image of each book to go to its own page. We have received two Japan focused awards for these books: the 'International Manga Award' from the Japanese government, and the 'Scottish Samurai Award' from an association celebrating links between Scotland and Japan.
"Wilson, in tandem with various talented Japanese artists, has made a unique line of manga style books on Japanese themes, unmatched by any other English language comic book creator."
- Davide Calzetti, Japanese history researcher.
“I definitely recommend checking out Sean Michael Wilson’s work. He's written an absolute treasure trove of great comics on Feudal Japanese History, Biography and Folklore, as well as comics adaptions of some of the great works of Japanese Literature.”
- Pól Rua, Ace Comics and Games, Australia
"Shambhala Publications is to be complimented for their support of this non-traditional format for very traditional and serious texts. There are more graphic novels in the works, and one in particular has caught our interest-a treatment of the 47 Ronin, due out in November. Again featuring Sean Michael Wilson at the helm, it features artwork by Shimojima Akiko and states without reservation that it will be “accurate and …compelling”, and featuring characters that are “nuanced and relatable”...We have to admit to being skeptical that the end result will indeed stick to the historical facts and not mirror the fictional Chushingura version of the Ako ronin. However, based on the excellent job Wilson has done to date, if anyone can pull it off, he can."
- The Shoguns House
Click the image of each book to see more on its own page

Award winning team of Sean Michael Wilson and Akiko Shimojima have ventured into new territory in this, their ninth book together, on the explorer Mamiya Rinzō 間宮 林蔵 who mapped Sakhalin Island in the early years of the 19th century.
Mamiya’s Maps is about exploration, culture clash, the making of maps and how they are related to politics. It’s also anthropological in its look at the Ainu and Nivkh people of Sakhalin island. The animals and the landscape of the island and its surrounding waters are beautifully illustrated, making this a visually appealing manga that explores a little known aspect of Japanese history and culture. The issues the book covers are still relevant now, since the ownership of the island has been in dispute since the end of World War 2, but also the treatment of the Ainu and other indigenous peoples of the area has been called into question.
Mamiya's Maps, out December 2022, in a 112 page book from new European publisher, Eostre Publications, priced $14.95
The book is created and published in the Japanese reading order.
Get the book on AMAZON

June 2022
Tuttle Publishing
192 pages.
Adapted by Sean Michael Wilson
Illustrated by Inko Ai Takita
"Step into a story of life and love in Kyoto's 10th century royal court.
Tale of Genji tells the story of Prince Genji. Handsome, romantic, and talented in the art of seduction, Prince Genji skillfully navigates the court and all its intrigues—always in search of love and often finding it. His story is the oldest and most famous tale of romance in the annals of Japanese literature and, as a representation of passion and romance, remains beyond compare.
Superbly illustrated and retold, this visual take on Japan's most important classic offers an intimate look at the social mores and intrigues in the Heian-era court of medieval Japan, and Prince Genji's representation as the ideal male courtier."
The book is created and published in the Japanese reading order.
Get the book on AMAZON
Tuttle Publishing
192 pages.
Adapted by Sean Michael Wilson
Illustrated by Inko Ai Takita
"Step into a story of life and love in Kyoto's 10th century royal court.
Tale of Genji tells the story of Prince Genji. Handsome, romantic, and talented in the art of seduction, Prince Genji skillfully navigates the court and all its intrigues—always in search of love and often finding it. His story is the oldest and most famous tale of romance in the annals of Japanese literature and, as a representation of passion and romance, remains beyond compare.
Superbly illustrated and retold, this visual take on Japan's most important classic offers an intimate look at the social mores and intrigues in the Heian-era court of medieval Japan, and Prince Genji's representation as the ideal male courtier."
The book is created and published in the Japanese reading order.
Get the book on AMAZON

The Spirit of Japan:
Festivals, Rituals and
Everyday Magic
written by Sean Michael Wilson
This a non-fiction text book, not a comic book - though has 20 very nice colour illustrations by Fumio Obata.
£11.99 * 108 pages
Published Summer 2021
Get it on AMAZON
Festivals, Rituals and
Everyday Magic
written by Sean Michael Wilson
This a non-fiction text book, not a comic book - though has 20 very nice colour illustrations by Fumio Obata.
£11.99 * 108 pages
Published Summer 2021
Get it on AMAZON

The Minamata Story: An Ecotragedy
A true story of environmental damage and personal tragedy in Japan due to corporate miss-management and government cover up.
Written by Sean Michael Wilson
Illustrated by Akiko Shimojima
From the respected publisher of Asia related
books, Stonebridge Press, Summer 2021.
Get it on AMAZON
(who never contribute to the world being more polluted, obviously. well maybe a little...)

Manga Yokai Stories:
Ghostly Tales from Japan
This is my second big collection of manga versions of the Japanese tales collected together by the Irish-Greek writer Lafacadio Hearn around 120 years ago. He lived in the same city I am now in (and, in fact, used to walk on the same road I live on). Glad to say it has been selling well and has already become my 3rd best selling book.
"This spine-tingling collection of seven Japanese ghost stories will thrill lovers of yokai stories!
Adapted by Sean Michael Wilson, illustrated by Inko Ai Takita
September 2020, Tuttle Publishing
Get it on AMAZON

The Satsuma Rebellion:
Illustrated Japanese History
- The Last Stand of the Samurai
North Atlantic Books, April 2018, 112 pages.
A gripping graphic novel describing the uprising of 1887, when the old style samurai were crushed in a bloody conflict with the imperial army that ended samurai power in Japan.
Award-winning comic book writer Sean Michael Wilson and acclaimed manga artist Akiko Shimojima team up to tell the riveting story that changed the face of modern Japan. Depicting thrilling scenes of battles, gunships, castle sieges, and the samurai's heroic last stand, this book portrays the bloody uprising of 1887, when Satsuma area rebels, led by the infamous Saigo Takamori, fought enforced modernization by the Meiji Japanese government. Their crushing defeat by the imperial army ended their power once and for all and ushered in an era of modern technology and western military methods. Wilson's thrilling narrative and Shimojima's striking images convey both the drama of these events and the importance of the historical moment.
Historically accurate and with an easy-to-read format, The Satsuma Rebellion is Volume 2 in the Illustrated Japanese History series that began with Black Ships.
Get the book here:
https://www.amazon.com/Satsuma-Rebellion-Illustrated-Japanese-History/dp/1623171679

And the bilingual version (Japanese and English) from Kodansha, May 2018:
バイリンガルコミックス
一外国人の見た西郷隆盛と西南戦争
"Saigo Takamori and the Seinan War through the Eyes of a Foreigner")
原作 ショーン・マイケル・ウィルソン
作画 アリス・フィッシュ
翻訳 田代廉子
翻訳監修 深井裕美子
講談社
https://www.amazon.co.jp/バイリンガル・コミックス-一外国人の見た西郷隆盛と西南戦争-Takamori-KODANSHA-BILINGUAL/dp/406511503
バイリンガルコミックス
一外国人の見た西郷隆盛と西南戦争
"Saigo Takamori and the Seinan War through the Eyes of a Foreigner")
原作 ショーン・マイケル・ウィルソン
作画 アリス・フィッシュ
翻訳 田代廉子
翻訳監修 深井裕美子
講談社
https://www.amazon.co.jp/バイリンガル・コミックス-一外国人の見た西郷隆盛と西南戦争-Takamori-KODANSHA-BILINGUAL/dp/406511503

Black Ships - March 2017
On the 14th of July, 1853, the USS Plymouth, Mississippi, Saratoga, and Susquehanna sailed into Yokosuka, Japan. The mysterious "Black Ships" had arrived. In this stirring account of a pivotal moment in modern Japanese history, award-winning author and illustrator team Sean Michael Wilson and Akiko Shimojima tell the story of the four American "Black Ships" that arrived in Japan in 1853 under the command of Commodore Perry to force Japan to open up to trade. The book compellingly portrays the apprehension and confusion of the Japanese people witnessing the Black Ships steaming into view over the horizon; the anxious response of the samurai; the cat-and-mouse game that ensued; the protracted negotiations; and the eventual agreement signed on March 31st, 1854, as the Treaty of Kanagawa. Historically accurate and with an easy-to-read visual format, Black Ships conveys the personalities of the key figures in the drama: on one side, Commodore Perry and his captains, and on the other, Shogunate officials Abe Masahiro and Hayashi Akira. Wilson and Shimojima vividly capture the atmosphere of threat and change that pervaded Japan during Bakumatsu, the final years of the Edo period, as the feudal Tokugawa shogunate took its last breaths and gave way to the new Meiji government.
https://www.amazon.com/Black-Ships-Illustrated-History-Americans/dp/1623170915

Bushido: The Soul of the Samurai
A graphic novel version of the classic book that first introduced Westerners to the samurai ethos.
This graphic novel version of the cult classic Bushido brings the timeless secrets of the samurai to life. Originally published in 1905, Bushido was the first book to introduce Westerners to the samurai ethos. Written by Inazo Nitobe, one of the foremost Japanese authors and educators of the time, it describes the characteristics and virtues that are associated with bushido—honor, courage, justice, loyalty, self-control—and explains the philosophy behind how samurai were educated and trained; the connection between the sword and the samurai; seppuku; and the position of women in samurai culture; among other themes. To this day,Bushido is considered a must-read for anyone who wants to understanding the soul of Japan and navigate their world with integrity and honor.
https://www.amazon.com/Bushido-Samurai-Sean-Michael-Wilson/dp/1611802105/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

Cigarette Girl by Masahiko Matsumoto
Edited by Sean Michael Wilson, with an introduction by Yoshihiro Tatsumi and biographical back section text by Mitsuhiro Asakawa.
Publisher: IDW - TOP SHELF May 2016 $24.99
Launched at the Toronto Comic Book Convention 2016
"Welcome to the quiet, evocative urban dramas of Masahiko Matsumoto, one of the leading lights of the Japanese alternative-comics movement known as "gekiga." Originally published in 1974, these eleven stories now form the first English-language collection of Matsumoto's mature work. His shy, uncertain heroes face broken hearts, changing families, money troubles, sexual anxiety, and the pressures of tradition, but with a whimsy and lightness of touch that is Matsumoto's trademark."
In Diamond distributor's March Previews:
http://www.previewsworld.com/Catalog/MAR160496
http://www.amazon.com/Cigarette-Girl-Masahiko-Matsumoto/dp/1603093826
Edited by Sean Michael Wilson, with an introduction by Yoshihiro Tatsumi and biographical back section text by Mitsuhiro Asakawa.
Publisher: IDW - TOP SHELF May 2016 $24.99
Launched at the Toronto Comic Book Convention 2016
"Welcome to the quiet, evocative urban dramas of Masahiko Matsumoto, one of the leading lights of the Japanese alternative-comics movement known as "gekiga." Originally published in 1974, these eleven stories now form the first English-language collection of Matsumoto's mature work. His shy, uncertain heroes face broken hearts, changing families, money troubles, sexual anxiety, and the pressures of tradition, but with a whimsy and lightness of touch that is Matsumoto's trademark."
In Diamond distributor's March Previews:
http://www.previewsworld.com/Catalog/MAR160496
http://www.amazon.com/Cigarette-Girl-Masahiko-Matsumoto/dp/1603093826

Lafcadio Hearn's "The Faceless Ghost"
and Other Macabre Tales from Japan
By Sean Michael Wilson and Michiru Morikawa.
Eerie traditional Japanese stories of ghosts, mystery and magic retold in a graphic novel format.
Over one hundred years ago, the writer Lafcadio Hearn gathered and translated into English a selection of traditional Japanese ghost/mystery stories. They were published as Kwaidan: Stories and Studies of Strange Things. In this new graphic novel, acclaimed manga creator Sean Michael Wilson retells six of these stories. All of them are very well known in Japan, where ghosts and demons are often called yokai,meaning "the mysterious and weird." Today these stories find expression mostly in movies and manga, but they remain rooted in the traditional ghost stories of the Edo era known as kaidan, which means "recited narrative of strange, mysterious, rare, or bewitching apparitions."
This book made it to the recommended reading list of this important library association the USA: '2016 Great Graphic Novels for Teens' of YALSA (The Young Adult Library Services Association).
Who are: "...a national association of US librarians, library workers and advocates whose mission is to expand and strengthen library services for teens, aged 12-18."
Sounds good to me. Get it for your library!
Also nominated for an Eisner Award, 2016, and it won a medal in the 2016 'Independent Publishers Award', USA.
http://www.amazon.com/Lafcadio-Hearns-Faceless-Ghost-Macabre/dp/1611801974/ref=sr_1_14?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1446254404&sr=1-14

The Book of Five Rings Graphic Novel
A manga version of Miyamoto Musashi’s famous book on the martial arts. By Sean Michael Wilson, Art by Chie Kutsuwada, based on the translations of William Scott Wilson. Shambhala Publications, 2012
"This graphic adaptation of Musashi's seventeenth-century treatise on the martial arts makes careful, effective use of imagery to emphasize both the narrative and instructional aspects of the original text. . . . Musashi's lessons, in their focus on preparation and mindfulness, can easily be applied to most areas of life. Kutsuwada's art is delicate and clean, balancing the physiological dynamics of swordplay with a clear-eyed appreciation of Musashi's natural environment. An engaging, thoughtful update of what could be esoteric." - Publishers Weekly
Order the book on amazon here, the 'Look Inside' function there has many of the pages on show. It has a 'Best Books of 2014' star:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Book-Five-Rings-Graphic/dp/1611800129
A manga version of Miyamoto Musashi’s famous book on the martial arts. By Sean Michael Wilson, Art by Chie Kutsuwada, based on the translations of William Scott Wilson. Shambhala Publications, 2012
"This graphic adaptation of Musashi's seventeenth-century treatise on the martial arts makes careful, effective use of imagery to emphasize both the narrative and instructional aspects of the original text. . . . Musashi's lessons, in their focus on preparation and mindfulness, can easily be applied to most areas of life. Kutsuwada's art is delicate and clean, balancing the physiological dynamics of swordplay with a clear-eyed appreciation of Musashi's natural environment. An engaging, thoughtful update of what could be esoteric." - Publishers Weekly
Order the book on amazon here, the 'Look Inside' function there has many of the pages on show. It has a 'Best Books of 2014' star:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Book-Five-Rings-Graphic/dp/1611800129

Hagakure The Manga Edition
A manga version of this classic early 18thC samurai text. Kodansha, Spring 2011, 150 pages.
Based on William Scott Wilson's definitive translation, adapted by scriptwriter and comic book/manga author Sean Wilson, and with lively drawings by well-known illustrator Chie Kutsuwada, this first-ever graphic treatment of what's considered the most influential of all samurai treatises is sure to delight manga fans, martial arts enthusiasts, and students of Japanese culture.
Reminiscent of The Arabian Nights in structure, Hagakure is acollection of tales and anecdotes that offer instruction and insight into the philosophy and code of behavior that foster the true spirit of Bushido - the Way of the Warrior. A young, upcoming samurai seeks the advice of an older, seasoned warrior who has become a Zen monk. The ambitious young samurai humbly begs to learn from the old master, who consents. So begins a series of eventful meetings.
And, as an added bonus, William Scott Wilson, the translator of the original Kodansha International version of the book, provides an illuminating Afterword.
"If you have any interest in samurai especially about Japanese perspective and the Bushido code of that time... but you don't feel that you are up to reading the actual book, then definitely recommend checking out "Hagakure: The Code of the Samurai - The Manga Edition". Definitely recommended!" - Denis A Amith, Kindle.
http://www.amazon.com/Hagakure-Code-Samurai-Manga-Edition/dp/4770031203

THE 47 RONIN 忠臣蔵
A version of the legendary tale that stays close to historical research.
Sean Michael Wilson, art by Akiko Shimojima. USA version from Shambhala Publications, 160 pages. Japanese version from Kodansha 講談社 Nov 2013, 160 pages. $14.95. The story of how and why the 47 ronin get revenge for their dead master. Now a 'major movie' as they say, staring Keanu Reeves - but their version is very FAR from the true story! Buy our book and compare the two.
"In the eighteenth century, forty-seven samurai avenged the death of their master in a plot that would take over two years to complete. After succeeding in their mission, the masterless samurai—known as ronin—all committed ritual suicide. The story, which is a national legend, remains the most potent example of Japan's deeply rooted cultural imperative of honor, persistence, loyalty, and sacrifice. The historical event has inspired many writers and artists over the years and numerous fictionalized versions and adaptations have emerged. In The 47 Ronin, Sean Michael Wilson has created a historically factual portrait, enhanced by evocative and often lyrical drawings by Akiko Shimojima. While there are other depictions of the story in manga form, this version stands out as being the most accurate and most compelling. Wilson and Shimojima have made the characters nuanced and relatable."
http://www.amazon.com/The-47-Ronin-Graphic-Novel/dp/1611801370
10月24日に新刊発売! 『バイリンガルコミックス忠臣蔵』(講談社刊・160ページ、1500円)の原 作はショーン・マイケル・ウィルソン、作画は東 京出身のアリス・フィッシュ。主君の仇を討つ四十七士の真実の物語が、バイリンガルのマンガ――吹き出しの中は英語で日本語訳はすぐそばに置いた形――で 描かれます。
Bilingual - with English and Japanese on each page. Published by Kodansha, 160 pages, 1500 yen
http://www.amazon.co.jp/バイリンガルコミックス-忠臣蔵-The-47-Ronin/dp/4062179717
A version of the legendary tale that stays close to historical research.
Sean Michael Wilson, art by Akiko Shimojima. USA version from Shambhala Publications, 160 pages. Japanese version from Kodansha 講談社 Nov 2013, 160 pages. $14.95. The story of how and why the 47 ronin get revenge for their dead master. Now a 'major movie' as they say, staring Keanu Reeves - but their version is very FAR from the true story! Buy our book and compare the two.
"In the eighteenth century, forty-seven samurai avenged the death of their master in a plot that would take over two years to complete. After succeeding in their mission, the masterless samurai—known as ronin—all committed ritual suicide. The story, which is a national legend, remains the most potent example of Japan's deeply rooted cultural imperative of honor, persistence, loyalty, and sacrifice. The historical event has inspired many writers and artists over the years and numerous fictionalized versions and adaptations have emerged. In The 47 Ronin, Sean Michael Wilson has created a historically factual portrait, enhanced by evocative and often lyrical drawings by Akiko Shimojima. While there are other depictions of the story in manga form, this version stands out as being the most accurate and most compelling. Wilson and Shimojima have made the characters nuanced and relatable."
http://www.amazon.com/The-47-Ronin-Graphic-Novel/dp/1611801370
10月24日に新刊発売! 『バイリンガルコミックス忠臣蔵』(講談社刊・160ページ、1500円)の原 作はショーン・マイケル・ウィルソン、作画は東 京出身のアリス・フィッシュ。主君の仇を討つ四十七士の真実の物語が、バイリンガルのマンガ――吹き出しの中は英語で日本語訳はすぐそばに置いた形――で 描かれます。
Bilingual - with English and Japanese on each page. Published by Kodansha, 160 pages, 1500 yen
http://www.amazon.co.jp/バイリンガルコミックス-忠臣蔵-The-47-Ronin/dp/4062179717

AX: alternative manga
Top Shelf , 400-Page Softcover Graphic Novel with French Flaps, $29.95.
Nominated for a Harvey Award, 2011, and in the 'Ten best books of 2010' of Publishers Weekly.
A groundbreaking introduction to the most creative and cutting-edge works of Japanese independent comics, presented in English for the first time, AX is the premier Japanese magazine for alternative comics. Published bi-monthly for over ten years, the pages of AX contain the most creative and cutting-edge works of independent comics in the world's largest comics industry. Now, Top Shelf presents this collection of stories from ten years of AX history, and features work by such visionaries as Yoshihiro Tatsumi, Akino Kondoh, Kazuichi Hanawa, and Shinichi Abe.
"Ax goes out on a limb where most manga creators dare not go, with an undeniable energy that crackles from almost every page... it will blow your mind." -- Deb Aoki, About.com manga guide
"Within Ax's four hundred pages are over thirty stories that explode everything you might have thought about what manga is." -- David Brothers, Comics Alliance
"One hell of a book... absolutely recommended." -- Joseph Luster, Otaku USA
http://www.amazon.com/AX-Volume-Collection-Alternative-Manga/dp/1603090428
Top Shelf , 400-Page Softcover Graphic Novel with French Flaps, $29.95.
Nominated for a Harvey Award, 2011, and in the 'Ten best books of 2010' of Publishers Weekly.
A groundbreaking introduction to the most creative and cutting-edge works of Japanese independent comics, presented in English for the first time, AX is the premier Japanese magazine for alternative comics. Published bi-monthly for over ten years, the pages of AX contain the most creative and cutting-edge works of independent comics in the world's largest comics industry. Now, Top Shelf presents this collection of stories from ten years of AX history, and features work by such visionaries as Yoshihiro Tatsumi, Akino Kondoh, Kazuichi Hanawa, and Shinichi Abe.
"Ax goes out on a limb where most manga creators dare not go, with an undeniable energy that crackles from almost every page... it will blow your mind." -- Deb Aoki, About.com manga guide
"Within Ax's four hundred pages are over thirty stories that explode everything you might have thought about what manga is." -- David Brothers, Comics Alliance
"One hell of a book... absolutely recommended." -- Joseph Luster, Otaku USA
http://www.amazon.com/AX-Volume-Collection-Alternative-Manga/dp/1603090428

MUSASHI A Graphic Novel
A biography of Miyamoto Musashi, from birth to death.Shambhala Publications, October 2014, $16.95, 170 Pages
A book that looks at the life, from birth to death, of legendary warrior poet, Miyamoto Musashi. The artist on the MUSASHI book is Michiru Morikawa, and she has done a wonderful job. Especially on the later chapters, where there are various 'silent beauty' pages with little or no text - some of her art on those is very beautiful. Lovely stuff.
"Miyamoto Musashi, the legendary samurai, is known throughout the world as a master swordsman, spiritual seeker, and author of the classic Book of Five Rings. Acclaimed manga creator Sean Michael Wilson has created both a vivid account of a fascinating period in feudal Japan and a portrait of a courageous, iconoclastic samurai who wrestled with philosophical and spiritual ideas that are as relevant today as they were in his time. For Musashi, the way of the martial arts was about mastery of the mind rather than simply technical prowess. Over 350 years after his death, Musashi still intrigues us—and his Book of Five Rings is essential reading for students of all martial arts and those interested in cultivating a strategic mind."
http://www.amazon.com/Musashi-Graphic-Novel-William-Wilson/dp/1611801354
"The writing is very good and overall has a good pace. Biographical stories have a tendency to have a weak ending due to following the person’s life so closely, but Sean Michael Wilson manages to make this ending rewarding and the right closing for the story...Michiru Morikawa brings the story to life with his illustrations. His [actually HER] take on Mushashi is distinct and unlike anything else you’ve seen before. Morikawa gives the action a wonderful presence as it’s dynamic and yet easy to follow...If you’re into Samurai’s, swordplay or history; then you’ll definitely want to check out Musashi."
- Dustin Cabeal, comicbastards.com
A biography of Miyamoto Musashi, from birth to death.Shambhala Publications, October 2014, $16.95, 170 Pages
A book that looks at the life, from birth to death, of legendary warrior poet, Miyamoto Musashi. The artist on the MUSASHI book is Michiru Morikawa, and she has done a wonderful job. Especially on the later chapters, where there are various 'silent beauty' pages with little or no text - some of her art on those is very beautiful. Lovely stuff.
"Miyamoto Musashi, the legendary samurai, is known throughout the world as a master swordsman, spiritual seeker, and author of the classic Book of Five Rings. Acclaimed manga creator Sean Michael Wilson has created both a vivid account of a fascinating period in feudal Japan and a portrait of a courageous, iconoclastic samurai who wrestled with philosophical and spiritual ideas that are as relevant today as they were in his time. For Musashi, the way of the martial arts was about mastery of the mind rather than simply technical prowess. Over 350 years after his death, Musashi still intrigues us—and his Book of Five Rings is essential reading for students of all martial arts and those interested in cultivating a strategic mind."
http://www.amazon.com/Musashi-Graphic-Novel-William-Wilson/dp/1611801354
"The writing is very good and overall has a good pace. Biographical stories have a tendency to have a weak ending due to following the person’s life so closely, but Sean Michael Wilson manages to make this ending rewarding and the right closing for the story...Michiru Morikawa brings the story to life with his illustrations. His [actually HER] take on Mushashi is distinct and unlike anything else you’ve seen before. Morikawa gives the action a wonderful presence as it’s dynamic and yet easy to follow...If you’re into Samurai’s, swordplay or history; then you’ll definitely want to check out Musashi."
- Dustin Cabeal, comicbastards.com

The Demon's Sermon
on the Martial Arts
(graphic novel)
A manga version of this classic 18thC text on buddhism, shinto and Tao. Sean Michael Wilson, art by Michiru Morikawa, based on the translation by William Scott Wilson. Shambhala Publications, March 2013, 160 pages. $14.95
"A graphic novel version of this classic collection of martial arts parables, written by Issai Chozanshi, an 18-century samurai, brings these tales alive in a captivating and immediately accessible way. The stories, which feature demons, insects, birds, cats, and numerous other creatures, may seem whimsical, but they contain essential teachings that offer insight into the fundamental principles of the martial arts.
Infused with Chozanshi’s deep understanding of Taoism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Shinto, the tales elucidate the nature of conflict, the importance of following one’s own nature, yin and yang, the cultivation and transformation of ch’i (life energy), and the attainment of mushin (no-mind). Ultimately, the reader learns in a visually exciting way that the path of the sword is a path of self-knowledge and leads to an understanding of life itself."
"A beautiful transformation of martial arts philosophy as told through fairy tales. A recommended read, whether this form or the more standard text, for students of martial arts as a whole." - Tegna, Good Reads reviewer
"... a beautifully illustrated classic collection of martial arts parables. Simply lovely. Read it today." - Samantha Wallace, Good Reads reviewer
http://www.amazon.com/Demons-Sermon-Martial-Arts-Graphic/dp/1611800218/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1374459873&sr=1-2
on the Martial Arts
(graphic novel)
A manga version of this classic 18thC text on buddhism, shinto and Tao. Sean Michael Wilson, art by Michiru Morikawa, based on the translation by William Scott Wilson. Shambhala Publications, March 2013, 160 pages. $14.95
"A graphic novel version of this classic collection of martial arts parables, written by Issai Chozanshi, an 18-century samurai, brings these tales alive in a captivating and immediately accessible way. The stories, which feature demons, insects, birds, cats, and numerous other creatures, may seem whimsical, but they contain essential teachings that offer insight into the fundamental principles of the martial arts.
Infused with Chozanshi’s deep understanding of Taoism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Shinto, the tales elucidate the nature of conflict, the importance of following one’s own nature, yin and yang, the cultivation and transformation of ch’i (life energy), and the attainment of mushin (no-mind). Ultimately, the reader learns in a visually exciting way that the path of the sword is a path of self-knowledge and leads to an understanding of life itself."
"A beautiful transformation of martial arts philosophy as told through fairy tales. A recommended read, whether this form or the more standard text, for students of martial arts as a whole." - Tegna, Good Reads reviewer
"... a beautifully illustrated classic collection of martial arts parables. Simply lovely. Read it today." - Samantha Wallace, Good Reads reviewer
http://www.amazon.com/Demons-Sermon-Martial-Arts-Graphic/dp/1611800218/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1374459873&sr=1-2

Secrets of the Ninja
A fictional story based on historical research around the shinobi, Hattori Hanzo.
Blue Snake Books/North Atlantic Books, July 2015, $15.95, 140 Pages
Winner of a medal in the Japanese Government's International Managa Awards, 2016
"This historically grounded manga follows the ninja Nagata Saburo as he teaches his son, Hisaaki, the weapons, secret tactics, and values of the ninja. Based on the real-life writings of the famous ninja Hattori Hanzo, Secrets of the Ninja combines a familiar coming-of-age story with a historically accurate background of political intrigue and Sengoku-period Japanese culture. As Hisaaki grows from boy to man, Wilson skillfully interweaves real lessons, weapons, and skills used by ninja in feudal Japan, depicted with detail by artist Akiko Shimojima.
All of the tactics Saburo teaches to his son are drawn from the Shinobi Hiden, the most famous of the “ninja scrolls” written by Hattori Hanzo, general to the warlord Tokugawa Ieyasu and one of the most famous warriors in Japan. These scrolls provided practical instruction for professional ninja, but they also provide insightful theories of social relationships and human interaction, studying the nature of deception, falsehood, and self-protection. An extensive supplementary section written by Antony Cummins provides fascinating details on these scrolls and their practical lessons. Accessible, insightful, and exciting, Secrets of the Ninja is the perfect introduction to the world of samurai and shinobi warfare."
http://www.amazon.com/Secrets-Ninja-Shinobi-Teachings-Hattori/dp/1583948643
A fictional story based on historical research around the shinobi, Hattori Hanzo.
Blue Snake Books/North Atlantic Books, July 2015, $15.95, 140 Pages
Winner of a medal in the Japanese Government's International Managa Awards, 2016
"This historically grounded manga follows the ninja Nagata Saburo as he teaches his son, Hisaaki, the weapons, secret tactics, and values of the ninja. Based on the real-life writings of the famous ninja Hattori Hanzo, Secrets of the Ninja combines a familiar coming-of-age story with a historically accurate background of political intrigue and Sengoku-period Japanese culture. As Hisaaki grows from boy to man, Wilson skillfully interweaves real lessons, weapons, and skills used by ninja in feudal Japan, depicted with detail by artist Akiko Shimojima.
All of the tactics Saburo teaches to his son are drawn from the Shinobi Hiden, the most famous of the “ninja scrolls” written by Hattori Hanzo, general to the warlord Tokugawa Ieyasu and one of the most famous warriors in Japan. These scrolls provided practical instruction for professional ninja, but they also provide insightful theories of social relationships and human interaction, studying the nature of deception, falsehood, and self-protection. An extensive supplementary section written by Antony Cummins provides fascinating details on these scrolls and their practical lessons. Accessible, insightful, and exciting, Secrets of the Ninja is the perfect introduction to the world of samurai and shinobi warfare."
http://www.amazon.com/Secrets-Ninja-Shinobi-Teachings-Hattori/dp/1583948643

Yakuza Moon The manga edition
A modern day story, set in the Osaka and Tokyo of the 80s and 90s, the true story of Shoko Tendo.
Yakuza Moon: The True Story of a Gangster's Daughter, by Sean Michael Wilson and Michiru Morikawa.Kodansha, Spring 2011, 192 pages.
In this lively and inspiring adaptation by a rising star in the manga world, and with illustrations by a leading artist, Shoko Tendo's powerful story has been recreated. Yakuza Moon is a heartrending and eye-opening account of her experiences growing up in Japan's gangster society.
Born into the family of a wealthy yakuza boss, Shoko Tendo lived her early years in luxury. But labeled "the yakuza kid," she was the victim both of bullying and discrimination from teachers and classmates at school, and of her father's drunken rages at home. Then, the family fell into debt, and Tendo fell in with the wrong crowd. By the age of fifteen she was a gang member; by the age of eighteen, a drug addict; and in her twenties, a willing participant in a series of abusive and violent relationships with men.
Tendo sank lower and lower. After the death of her parents and her own suicide attempt, she began a tortuous, soul-searching reevaluation of the road she had taken. An unconventional act of empowerment (getting tattooed from the base of her neck to the tips of her toes) finally helped her take control of her life, leading to redemption and happiness. Already an international success and translated into fourteen languages, Tendo's story is sure to appeal to many new fans in this outstanding graphic version.
". . . completely enthralling. . . . the life of Shoko Tendo is an eye-opening and fascinating story. . . . Appropriately for a comic adapted from an autobiography, this book really puts readers inside the head of its protagonist. We get to experience Shoko's world from her perspective, imagine her world with her voice, and see the world through her eyes. . . . While I found the core plot of the book to be very interesting, I haven't discussed the remarkable job that Sean Michael Wilson and Michiru Morikawa do in adapting this story. I was struck by the intimacy I felt for Shoko and how effectively Wilson and Morikawa brought the character to life." - Jason Sacks, Comics Bulletin
http://www.amazon.com/Yakuza-Moon-Gangsters-Daughter-Edition/dp/4770031467
A modern day story, set in the Osaka and Tokyo of the 80s and 90s, the true story of Shoko Tendo.
Yakuza Moon: The True Story of a Gangster's Daughter, by Sean Michael Wilson and Michiru Morikawa.Kodansha, Spring 2011, 192 pages.
In this lively and inspiring adaptation by a rising star in the manga world, and with illustrations by a leading artist, Shoko Tendo's powerful story has been recreated. Yakuza Moon is a heartrending and eye-opening account of her experiences growing up in Japan's gangster society.
Born into the family of a wealthy yakuza boss, Shoko Tendo lived her early years in luxury. But labeled "the yakuza kid," she was the victim both of bullying and discrimination from teachers and classmates at school, and of her father's drunken rages at home. Then, the family fell into debt, and Tendo fell in with the wrong crowd. By the age of fifteen she was a gang member; by the age of eighteen, a drug addict; and in her twenties, a willing participant in a series of abusive and violent relationships with men.
Tendo sank lower and lower. After the death of her parents and her own suicide attempt, she began a tortuous, soul-searching reevaluation of the road she had taken. An unconventional act of empowerment (getting tattooed from the base of her neck to the tips of her toes) finally helped her take control of her life, leading to redemption and happiness. Already an international success and translated into fourteen languages, Tendo's story is sure to appeal to many new fans in this outstanding graphic version.
". . . completely enthralling. . . . the life of Shoko Tendo is an eye-opening and fascinating story. . . . Appropriately for a comic adapted from an autobiography, this book really puts readers inside the head of its protagonist. We get to experience Shoko's world from her perspective, imagine her world with her voice, and see the world through her eyes. . . . While I found the core plot of the book to be very interesting, I haven't discussed the remarkable job that Sean Michael Wilson and Michiru Morikawa do in adapting this story. I was struck by the intimacy I felt for Shoko and how effectively Wilson and Morikawa brought the character to life." - Jason Sacks, Comics Bulletin
http://www.amazon.com/Yakuza-Moon-Gangsters-Daughter-Edition/dp/4770031467

The Japanese Drawing Room
Victorian Travellers In Japan
A real life account of the visit to Japan of two British people in 1885.Sean Michael Wilson, Shaun Garner and Sakura Mizuki.
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, May, 2006, 100 pages.
"A true story set in Meiji-era Japan, which combines the visual appeal of manga with a well-researched historical account. A foreign couple travels throughout Japan, seeing many interesting aspects of life - beautiful girls in Kyoto, the funeral of a Shinto priest and how Japan was adjusting to the new western influences. They come across fascinating aspects of Japanese history, like the 47 Ronin, who committed suicide after avenging their dead Samurai master. Mizuki's artwork on this book reaches a new level of beauty and sophistication."
http://www.amazon.com/Japanese-Drawing-Room-Michael-Wilson-ebook/dp/B00CQUQ34Y/ref=sr_1_29?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1421462527&sr=1-29_
Victorian Travellers In Japan
A real life account of the visit to Japan of two British people in 1885.Sean Michael Wilson, Shaun Garner and Sakura Mizuki.
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, May, 2006, 100 pages.
"A true story set in Meiji-era Japan, which combines the visual appeal of manga with a well-researched historical account. A foreign couple travels throughout Japan, seeing many interesting aspects of life - beautiful girls in Kyoto, the funeral of a Shinto priest and how Japan was adjusting to the new western influences. They come across fascinating aspects of Japanese history, like the 47 Ronin, who committed suicide after avenging their dead Samurai master. Mizuki's artwork on this book reaches a new level of beauty and sophistication."
http://www.amazon.com/Japanese-Drawing-Room-Michael-Wilson-ebook/dp/B00CQUQ34Y/ref=sr_1_29?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1421462527&sr=1-29_

Manga Mover
My first Japan related book, self published in 2004 as part of my 'Boychild Productions' books, with 3 Japanese creators published in English for the first time.
"This is an inventive and interesting experiment...a fresh and fun read...a mixed bag with something for everyone." -- Miller world.net Nov 2004
"Manga Mover shows promise...spotlighting new, independent talent in manga is certainly a niche that has not yet been filled..". -- Comic readers.com Nov 2004
Bit of a long note in defence of my own books:
In a way our Japanese history/culture types books, though they have been very well received by people who are already interested in Japan, suffer from not fitting neatly into any category:
1. I am not Japanese so I think some manga readers dont consider them 'real manga' worth checking out, even though the artists are all Japanese and the subjects are all about Japan and often published by Japanese publishers.
2.They also don’t quite fit into some folks idea of what literary graphic novels are like, because the subjects are often samurai or martial arts connected. This is perhaps seen, incorrectly, by some as overly macho or military or war focused… therefore not suitable subjects for female readers or not matching with the generally progressive world view of many readers of mature graphic novels.
3. Our Japanese themed books also dont fit into mainstream superhero comics (where macho/fighting stuff is perhaps more popular), because, actually, there is surprisingly little fighting in our books and battles are shown in ways that, for mainstream superhero comics readers, seem disappointingly realistic, brief and devoid of ‘wham-bam’ violent thrills.
While I can understand that easy classification is a common shortcut, I think all of the above are narrow and mistaken. Our Japanese themed books are not specifically focused on war and violence, they are about: history, culture and philosophy. Aren't those interesting topics, suitable for anyone? They are done in ways that don't exaggerate or simplify like Hollywood movies often do - instead we try to show the real events and people and places, according to what research has uncovered.
There is no valid reason to think of such books on history, culture, philosophy as not suitable for female readers. It should perhaps be pointed out that most of the Japanese artists I work with are themselves female (for no particular reason on my part, its just turned out that way). And these books should be of interest to those who like mature graphic novels like Maus, From Hell or Persepolis, etc, which are also quite often concerned with history, culture, philosophy, etc. Manga fans, if they have an interest in Japan, can learn quite a bit from these books which go into key aspects of Japanese culture/history and which are all drawn and partly researched by Japanese artists and editors. Those who like the more traditional superhero books probably will be disappointed by the lack of ‘action’ in our books, yes - but they should be open to trying something different.
So, why not try some of our books above.
In a way our Japanese history/culture types books, though they have been very well received by people who are already interested in Japan, suffer from not fitting neatly into any category:
1. I am not Japanese so I think some manga readers dont consider them 'real manga' worth checking out, even though the artists are all Japanese and the subjects are all about Japan and often published by Japanese publishers.
2.They also don’t quite fit into some folks idea of what literary graphic novels are like, because the subjects are often samurai or martial arts connected. This is perhaps seen, incorrectly, by some as overly macho or military or war focused… therefore not suitable subjects for female readers or not matching with the generally progressive world view of many readers of mature graphic novels.
3. Our Japanese themed books also dont fit into mainstream superhero comics (where macho/fighting stuff is perhaps more popular), because, actually, there is surprisingly little fighting in our books and battles are shown in ways that, for mainstream superhero comics readers, seem disappointingly realistic, brief and devoid of ‘wham-bam’ violent thrills.
While I can understand that easy classification is a common shortcut, I think all of the above are narrow and mistaken. Our Japanese themed books are not specifically focused on war and violence, they are about: history, culture and philosophy. Aren't those interesting topics, suitable for anyone? They are done in ways that don't exaggerate or simplify like Hollywood movies often do - instead we try to show the real events and people and places, according to what research has uncovered.
There is no valid reason to think of such books on history, culture, philosophy as not suitable for female readers. It should perhaps be pointed out that most of the Japanese artists I work with are themselves female (for no particular reason on my part, its just turned out that way). And these books should be of interest to those who like mature graphic novels like Maus, From Hell or Persepolis, etc, which are also quite often concerned with history, culture, philosophy, etc. Manga fans, if they have an interest in Japan, can learn quite a bit from these books which go into key aspects of Japanese culture/history and which are all drawn and partly researched by Japanese artists and editors. Those who like the more traditional superhero books probably will be disappointed by the lack of ‘action’ in our books, yes - but they should be open to trying something different.
So, why not try some of our books above.
In addition I also have two books on Chinese themes.

Cold Mountain (Graphic Novel)
Shambhala Publications, April 2015, $16.95, 128 Pages
A graphic novel portrait of the wild antics and legendary poetry of the "Laughing Pair"—Han Shan and Shih Te, two of China's greatest poets. "This is a smart, funny graphic novel exploring the life, legend, and lore of two of the greatest poets in Chinese history—Han Shan (known as "Cold Mountain") and Shih Te—who reportedly lived during the Tang dynasty (618-906 CE). They were critics of authority (both secular and religious) and champions of social justice who left their poetry on tree trunks and rocks. They were also reportedly monastics, drunks, cave dwellers, immortals, and many other wild and wondrous things. There is much delightful uncertainty about this "Laughing Pair"—including whether or not they actually existed. What is known is that the poetry attributed to them was greatly influential in both China and Japan, and to the Beat writers in the United States during the 1950s and '60s....translations by J. P. Seaton, one of the most respected tranlsators of Chinese poetry in the United States."
“The poetry of the manga here expresses the poetry of this pair of ‘mad men’ of Cold Mountain. Read the wise verses of Han Shan and Shih Te and, like the sage, your face will also break into a great big smile.”
- Paul Gravett, Comics Art and editor of 1001 Comics You Must Read Before You Die
There are many pages of the book to look at in the 'Look Inside' function on Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Cold-Mountain-Graphic-Novel-Original/dp/1611801796
Shambhala Publications, April 2015, $16.95, 128 Pages
A graphic novel portrait of the wild antics and legendary poetry of the "Laughing Pair"—Han Shan and Shih Te, two of China's greatest poets. "This is a smart, funny graphic novel exploring the life, legend, and lore of two of the greatest poets in Chinese history—Han Shan (known as "Cold Mountain") and Shih Te—who reportedly lived during the Tang dynasty (618-906 CE). They were critics of authority (both secular and religious) and champions of social justice who left their poetry on tree trunks and rocks. They were also reportedly monastics, drunks, cave dwellers, immortals, and many other wild and wondrous things. There is much delightful uncertainty about this "Laughing Pair"—including whether or not they actually existed. What is known is that the poetry attributed to them was greatly influential in both China and Japan, and to the Beat writers in the United States during the 1950s and '60s....translations by J. P. Seaton, one of the most respected tranlsators of Chinese poetry in the United States."
“The poetry of the manga here expresses the poetry of this pair of ‘mad men’ of Cold Mountain. Read the wise verses of Han Shan and Shih Te and, like the sage, your face will also break into a great big smile.”
- Paul Gravett, Comics Art and editor of 1001 Comics You Must Read Before You Die
There are many pages of the book to look at in the 'Look Inside' function on Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Cold-Mountain-Graphic-Novel-Original/dp/1611801796

A contemporary graphic novel adaptation of a spiritual classic.
180 pages Shambhala (December 11, 2018)
This graphic-novel version of the Tao Te Ching--the poetic classic that is the philosophical and religious basis of Taoism--brings the teachings into a modern light in a completely fresh and unique way. Each of the 81 poem-passages of the Tao Te Ching is reinterpreted by award-winning graphic novel writer Sean Michael Wilson and brought to life by the artful illustrations of Hong Kong artist Cary Kwok, who sets the text in various contemporary scenes to bring out the modern relevance.
Note: in this case its stretching the term to call it a 'graphic novel' as the book does not have a continuous story to it. The approach is more like an illustrated interpretation. But as graphic novel is now an accepted marketing/library classification term that has been used by the publisher.
https://www.amazon.com/Tao-Te-Ching-Graphic-Novel/dp/1611803284
And here is a free ibook that shows pages from each of these books connected with Japan:

japanese_books_ibook.iba | |
File Size: | 78410 kb |
File Type: | iba |