The prequel to the wildly successful Anime Companion, a new guide for every kind of fan is now available!

What makes Japanese animation Japanese? What are the top, not-to-be missed films? Who's got the anime goods? What's it all mean anyway? Answering just about every question a fan (or curious parent) has, Anime Essentials is an easy-to-read and fun-to-look-at overview of the pop culture phenomenon sweeping America.

It discusses the major players, where to get your anime fix, otaku (devoted fan) etiquette, how to run an anime club (and get pre-release screening!), how to 'talk' anime to outsiders, and lots more of interest both to veterans and newcomers.

Author Gilles Poitras monitors the anime scene and publishes a monthly e-zine of upcoming anime releases. A resident of the Bay Area, he is a frequent guest and speaker at anime conventions.