Tokyopop, describing themselves as a division of POP Media Holdings founded by filmmaker and entrepreneur Stu Levy, has announced plans to get back into North American publishing with a line of "family-friendly English-language Manga books by Disney." family-friendly English-language Manga books by Disney. 

The first title will be “Alice in Wonderland: Special Collector’s Manga” -- a mammoth 352-page hardcover adaptation of the classic film; and the second title will be “Pixar Manga Collection:  Finding Nemo,” a 176-page hardcover adaptation featuring bonus material

TOKYOPOP’s distribution to both the comic book specialty market and bookstores will be handled exclusively by Diamond Comic Distributors. Besides the return to print publishing, TOKYOPOP will be releasing eBook versions of its titles, available on all digital platforms.  

Levy commented “I couldn't be more excited to return to publishing with such esteemed licensing and distribution partners.  Diamond boasts the longest experience with comic book distribution and reaches the widest range of retail partners, while Disney’s influence on pop culture speaks for itself.  I’d like to thank our partners, fans, and creative talent for supporting us through the difficult times and keeping their faith in us”.

“We’re delighted to welcome back TOKYOPOP® to publishing,” said Tim Lenaghan, Diamond’s Executive Director of Purchasing. “Their new manga initiatives will surely be a hit with audiences, and we look forward to helping the company market and distribute their titles. We’re especially thrilled that TOKYOPOP® has chosen Diamond Book Distributors to represent them in the book market, as we add to our list of growing manga publishers.”

Stu Levy also spoke to Hollywood Reporter for a feature on Hollywood's fascination with manga adaptations

“Manga creators have recognized that adaptations of American comics are being done very well.”

“The triangle between Hollywood, China and Japan is going to get strong in the IP area, and Korea is in the mix, too,” he says. “There are going to be a lot of opportunities.”

The complete article is worth reading.

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Scott Green is editor and reporter for anime and manga at geek entertainment site Ain't It Cool News. Follow him on Twitter at @aicnanime.