This book describes the thematic and structural traits of a recent and popular development within the realm of anime: series adapted from visual novels. Visual novels are interactive fiction games in which players creatively control decisions and plot turning points. Endings alter according to the player's choices, providing a motivation to replay the game and opt for alternative decisions each time. Pictorial sumptuousness, plot depth and subtle characterization are vital aspects of the medium. Anime based on visual novels capitalize on the parent games' attributes, yielding thought-provoking yarns and complex personalities.

From Stone Bridge Press, award-winning publishers of The Anime Encyclopedia, Hayao Miyazaki, and The Astro Boy Essays, comes a must-have guide to 100 essential Japanese animation films, TV series, and made-for-video series, from 1950s classics to the latest Cartoon Network hits. Looking for something specific? Eight unique icons make reviews easy to browse.

The topos of memory has played a significant role in anime over the course of its evolution as an art form and as a popular form of entertainment. Anime's handling of memory is multifaceted, bringing it into collusion with diverse symbolic motifs, narrative themes, and aesthetic issues. This study aims to provide a detailed analysis of a range of anime titles wherein different aspects of this cultural phenomenon are articulated.

Examines a range of Eastern and Western approaches to magic in anime, addressing magical thinking as an overarching concept which unites numerous titles. It also explores the collusion of anime and magic with reference to specific topics. A close study of cardinal titles is complemented by allusions to ancillary productions in order to situate the medium's fascination with magic within an appropriately broad historical context.

The world's best-selling annual is back and crammed with thousands of amazing new records, cool facts and awesome pictures! Ever wondered how far a dog can ride a scooter or who's swallowed the most swords underwater? Want to know about the latest sporting achievements, extreme bodies and cutting-edge tech? Find the answers to these and many more mind-boggling feats in the all-new Guinness World Records 2015.