Mom's Best Friend, Page 1 (Patreon)

A lifetime ago in 2007, I submitted an entry to Tokyopop's 'Rising Stars of Manga' contest. I did not win, rightfully so -  compared to the winning entries that year, my art skill was severely underdeveloped. 

However, the story caught the attention of an editor, who reached out and explained they were starting a new program called Shining Stars, where the first "pilot" chapter of potential series could be viewed and voted on through Tokyopop's website. She asked if I would be interested in writing a pilot to submit. After reading her email three times, I couldn't stop squealing with joy. It scared my Mom.

'Shining Stars' would later be scrutinized for it's contracts, how it undermined and controlled the creative rights of those who participated. However, soon after launching Tokyopop itself would undergo massive restructuring and layoffs, ultimately ending the program before any real consequences develop. 

Despite the controversy,  I'm glad I got to do this project. It gave me experience working with an editor, a glimpse into the professional comic world, and a chance to work with amazing artist Jemma ~