Misako Takashima (aka Misako Rocks!), creator of Rock and Roll Love is completely surprised by some things that go around here in the West. One of them is how surprised she is to see editors and publishers discussing whether to allow girl in a tank top on the cover. I guess it is to be expected. Different nations have different cultures and values. We’re a bit more prudish than Japan or Europe when it comes to bearing it all and I guess a tank top is getting a bit too close to bikini and naked than editors and publishers can stand. Also at fault is that comics still bear a stigma from the days of the demonization of comic books and their influence on young children. There are things you cannot get away with in a comic book that you can in a movie or song from foul language, nudity, or intimate scenes.
For more of what Misako thinks about New York, western kids, and other things, hop on over to Mainichi Daily (UPDATE 2010-Sep-7: article no longer available).
