Penguin Random House introduces a new imprint dedicated to pop-comics “Inklore”

Penguin Random House is making a notable foray into the manga industry with the introduction of a new imprint called Inklore. This imprint is specifically designed to publish a diverse range of manga, manhwa (Korean comics), manhua (Chinese comics), webcomics, light novels, and other genre fiction. Leading the charge for Inklore is Rebecca “Tay” Taylor, a former editor from Boom! Studios and Vault Comics, who will serve as the editorial director for the imprint in the United States. Meanwhile, Kate McHale and Ben Brusey will oversee the imprint’s operations in the UK as part of Del Rey UK. Both teams are actively seeking and acquiring titles for publication.

McHale expressed her enthusiasm for Inklore, stating that the imprint is dedicated to connecting talented storytellers and creators from around the world with a global community of readers. She further highlighted that these visually stunning and emotionally captivating stories will transport readers and evoke a strong desire to share them. The collaboration between the US and UK teams adds to the excitement of this global venture, building upon the success of Del Rey UK. McHale also expressed eagerness to publish the signed titles and forthcoming releases.

Inklore’s debut lineup will feature a charming romantic comedy from Japan titled “My Love Story with Yamada-kun at Lv999,” created by Mashiro. This series, which is already available in English through the Mangamo digital app, follows the story of Akane, who, after being recently dumped, encounters Yamada in an RPG. Yamada, a legend in the game, becomes the object of Akane’s affection, but he seems solely focused on the game. As their feelings develop, will Yamada be able to shift his focus away from the game?

Among the additional launch titles are “Cherry Blossoms After Winter” by Bamwoo (available digitally on Tappytoon) and “Under the Oak Tree” by Kim Suji (currently available digitally on Manta). Notably, Inklore will also include two non-Asian titles: “Northern Lights,” a Norwegian YA fantasy series by Malin Falch (originally published as “Nordlys”), and “The Heavens,” a series of graphic novels co-created by Lev Grossman and Lilah Sturges, which is set to debut in 2027.

Readers can expect the Inklore imprint to launch in early 2024, according to Penguin Random House. This new endeavor signifies the publisher’s commitment to expanding its reach in the manga market and providing a platform for storytellers from various cultural backgrounds to captivate audiences globally.

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