Genshiken & Aira
pinkrabbit, I've completed Genshiken upto volume 3, and I've started on Aira. I really liked Genshiken btw, but sometimes I feel it moves to fast, and to slow at the same time. It's like actual time moves extremely fast, but the story isn't really being pushed hard. Oh well, I'm not going to get into details because I don't want to spoil volume 3 for you. Now I just need to break into Aira good.

Genshiken is really awesome! Both the anime and manga; it's the Otaku no Video of the 21st century! I hate to say it but I'm a little bit like Madarame (except I'm not a perv or collect x-rated doujinshi and stuff). What's wonderful is that in any given group of Otaku you can spot the different characters that are from the series; it's almost scary! BTW manga volume 4 just came out a few weeks ago.

The manga is pretty good, and I find it interesting. I've recently downloaded some of the anime to check it out, and it's quite nice how the drawing style is pretty much identical to the manga. From the few episodes of the anime that I've seen it pretty much follows the manga exactly, so if you've read it, then aside from wanting to see it animated there isn't really any new content. Oh, and hearing the voices chosen for each character is another bonus of the anime ;) About your remarks toward picking out certain otakus. It can't be more true. It's funny how much a truism this really is. As for who I'm like. I'd have to say I'm closer to Sasahara, and a hint of Kohsaka. Granted I don't actively buy hentai.

Just read volume 5; it takes place right after the anime. All US otaku should definately pick it up and read it! BTW new episodes are supposed to air in Japan this fall or winter. Yeah! Side note: has anyone seen an anime fan parody called "This is Otakudom"? I have and extra copy (it's on a VCD, I have to contact Scott and have him send me a DVD copy); if your club would like to borrow it to show, I'll be glad to lend it to you. My friend Scott Meltzer did it several years ago; it's about a group of anime fans who go to Otakon set to Fushigi Yuugi. Animazement screened it the last couple of years, maybe they will again this year.