MLS TEEN ANIME CLUB

MTAC on Hiatus

2012-02-10T12:13:00.001-08:00

Due to low attendance, the MLS Teen Anime Club will be on hiatus. Hopefully by this Summer, the club will be back when we reach out to more new Otaku-enthusiasts.

I want to thank all the past and present members for making MTAC an exciting club in the library. For the past THREE years, we've done a lot of fun activities:
-Anime screenings from Operation Anime
-a visit from manga artist Svetlana Chmakova
-Manga Jams and speed drawings
-selected new manga titles to add to the Mississauga Library System
-craft activities like origami, plushies, Tanabata ornaments, paper dolls
-playing Go and learning Japanese from the Golden Key Cultural Centre
-Video games - playing Wii and PS3 on the Noel Ryan Auditorium screen
-hanging out and promoting the club at the annual Missisauga Literacy Festival/Bookfest
-building a haunted house for the Central Library Children's department Halloween program
-2011's Cosplay Picnic at the Celebration Square

Thank you for all the awesome times and hope to see you guys again soon!

-Jason Loo

Anime Viewing/Dubbing/Commentary in January

2012-01-04T17:21:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year, MTACkers!

Watching Anime was one of the fun activities we got to do at our MTAC meetings in November-December. At our last meeting in December, we saw a wacky anime series not many of us has seen or heard about and to make matters interesting, we couldn't find the remote to change the subtitles/audio. So we had to guess what was going on as the anime played. Fun! No sarcastic tone needed.

For January 13th and 27th, come in with a wacky, absurd anime title (Moon Phase worthy) rated for teens or under for everyone to dub their own voices, guess the plot, or commentate on awkward scenes.

MTAC Anime Commentary
Anime title is decided on the day of meeting
Friday, January 13th, 27th - 3:30-5:00PM
Central Library, ground floor program room

-Jason

T.A.G. Holiday Party!

2011-12-01T09:06:00.000-08:00

T.A.G. Holiday Party
Friday, December 16, 2011
3:30pm – 8:30pm

Join Teen Advisory Groups and youth from across Mississauga for a TAG Holiday Party. Central Library’s TAG will be hosting a book exchange followed by a viewers’ choice holiday film.
Book Swap: Bring in your old youth fiction/graphic fiction books and exchange them for new books. Bring in books you want other teens to read and books you think other teens will like. Then, pick up some new titles to get you through the winter and restock your bookshelves.
Example: If you bring 7 old books in you can bring 7 new books home.

Holiday Movie: Stick around after the Book Swap to watch a great holiday movie. Vote for your favourite!

Timeline
Book Exchange: 3:30pm – 5:30pm – Ground Floor Program Room
Viewers’ Choice Holiday Movie: 6:30pm – 8:30pm- Noel Ryan Auditorium
Admission is free
Age 12y – 19y

Funimation Anime Viewing

2011-10-28T15:30:00.000-07:00

November 4th and December 2nd, we'll have Funimation Anime viewings straight from the source (streaming from the Funimation website). MTACkers will get to select the Anime episodes on the day of viewing (no blog polls!). Snacks (popcorn and Pockey) will be provided.

@ Central Library, Readers Den program room
3:30-5PM

It's GO time!

2011-10-11T07:23:00.000-07:00

October 21st, the Golden Key Cultural Centre will give us a lesson in the game GO and provide GO boards for us to play!
The program starts at 3:30pm and ends at 5pm.

-Jason

MTAC is BACK! This Friday!

2011-10-04T06:30:00.000-07:00

Hey MTACkers!

The first MTAC meeting since the summer is happening THIS Friday at the Central Library, Reader’s Den program room, 3:30pm-5pm.

We’ll have two PS3s set-up, one with Singstar (karaoke game) and the other with anything random like Marvel vs Capcom 3 or BlazBlue. We’ll also have a table just for sketching and board games. It’s just a perfect spot to meet after school.

Also, on October 21st (also at the Central Library, Reader’s Den program room, 3:30pm-5pm), Golden Key Cultural Centre will be coming in to give us a brief lesson on the game GO (like in Hiraku no Go) then give us a chance to play some rounds.

See you guys this Friday!

-Jason

MTAC needs your Feedback!

2011-09-27T07:20:00.001-07:00

Hi MTACkers,

The MLS Teen Anime Club wants your feedback. There’s been a declining attendance in our club this past year, and I want to know how we can make this club continue to live on.

Simply click the link and give your honest (and anonymous) opinions in the survey. There’s only 3 questions to answer.
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/SSFLJVL
Cheers,
-Jason

Photos from CosPlay Picnic @ Celebration Square

2011-08-06T08:05:00.000-07:00

CosPlay Picnic @ Celebration Square!

2011-07-21T12:45:00.000-07:00

Hey MTACkers!

The first annual CosPlay Picnic @ Celebration Square is about two weeks away (FRIDAY August 5th)! So bring your baskets, picnic blankets and sunscreen for cosplay fun in the sun on the lawn of the new Celebration Square (outside the Mississauga Central Library)!
There will also be a dance party (ie. Caramelldansen) at the Amphitheatre located at the upper half of the Celebration Square.
The fountain will be operating as an ideal backdrop for photos, or if you like to get wet.

Since this is our first annual CosPlay Picnic at the new Celebration Square, let's make this one crazy-exciting event so we can run many more in the future! I hope all you 'Maybes' decide to come!

Just a couple RULES for the event:
-The Celebration Square is a public area, so please dress and act appropriately!
-No litterbugs!

Picnic starts at 1:00PM and ends at 4:00PM, but cosplayers can stay longer as they feel.

In case it happens to rain that day, the Central Library will be hosting Video Game Dayz in the Noel Ryan Auditorium from 2-4PM. Come in costume and play DDR or some Wii-action on the big screen. Unfortunately, no food or drinks allowed inside the auditorium.

See you guys on August 5th!

Jason Loo
MLS* Teen Anime Club co-ordinator
*Mississauga Library System

RSVP here!

Manga Jams - June 2011

2011-07-09T12:53:00.000-07:00

"Toilet"

"Sleep"

"Nyan-bread"

"Magic"

"Breadfish"

"Action"

Manga Jams were drawn by Rickaye C, Olivia D, Celina C, Terrell B, Carla F, Niki L, and Jason Loo.

Anime North reviews

2011-06-07T06:53:00.000-07:00

Review by Donald L.
Day 1: When I first got to the place, I waited about half an hour to get my pre-registration badge, then met up with my friends and then lined up for the dealer's room. I didn't buy anything, just wanted to see what they had. After about an hour, me and my friends just spent an hour walking around the parking lot/outside hall entrance area taking pictures of cosplayers. After that, I decided to volunteer, and I got placed at the Anime Skit Contest, so I practically had front seats the whole time! That was awesome. After that, me and my friends checked out the artist alley. There were many kinds of anime related artwork but no AKB48 related things! I bought a whole set of pins though, for a $1 each. After that, we ate and hung out in the lobby of the front entrance of the Toronto Convention Centre, that place was really nice and comfy to hang out! We went home around 11.

Day 2: I decided to not volunteer today and have as much fun as possible. I really wanted to go to Café Delish, but my friends wanted to go somewhere else and we missed it :( so I was really determined to go to Café Nocturne, which was in the evening. For the afternoon we went to a cosplay photography panel, and the Anime North idol finals. The idol finals was awesome, because we got front seats! After that, we just went around and took more photos again. I stumbled upon the Final Fantasy photo shoot group and they did poses from Final Fantasy VII-XIII, which was awesome. Eventually I got into Café Nocturne and although it was not what I expected, I made some friends so that made it worthwhile.

Day 3: I planned to get my hours to get my refunded membership today. I spent morning to afternoon volunteering. What really amused me was the manga library, where people were actually reading mangas like no tomorrow! I didn't read any so I was ready to find books people needed fast. My whole day was spent volunteering. When I had to wait for the lineup to get volunteer rewards/refunds, we had to wait about an hour because they were out of cash! It was agonizing waiting because my friends were waiting for me.

Awesome:
1. Cosplay was nice
2. Cafes were unique
Rants:
1. Frustating as heck to go back and forth to Doubletree Hotel and Toronto Convention Centre if you want to go somewhere/need something
2. Dealer's room on Saturday is insane, worse than Friday/Sunday, do not go there on Saturday
3. Volunteering coordination was not that organized
For future anime convention goers:
1. Bring a camera
2. Bring water/umbrella

Review by Rickaye C.
Whoot! Anime North was a blast, although it wasn't the best. The damp and humid weather kinda threw me off but either way it didn't stop me.
Friday wasn't so bad besides getting my cosplay dirty and waiting to get inside the dealers room, it was packed... and phooey I missed the nominoichi and I was so stoked for it, I guess I was to busy looking for my friends. Saturday was better due to the masquerade and all the cosplay photoshoots I was a part of. The masquerade was shorter this year but had very impressive novice entries and many were quite funny. After the masquerade I watched a bit of the 404's. TT.TT It was hilarious but seeing bright pink shiny speedos is one thing I don't ever want to see again. Uuurrrggghhh, I got to buy a few things on this day from the artist's alley, mostly keychains of Panty and Stocking along with DC characters. Sadly, no prints got my attention.
Sunday was kinda an off day...I went around as a hunter from Left 4 Dead and found myself with a pack, we walked around looking for more L4D cosplayers then strolled into the dealers room, it was just as hot but less packed. I ended up buying stuff for my family... I really don't know why. I stashed my purchases at the Doubletree with the rest of my stuff changed and just raved a bit outside before I had to leave.
Overall I was happy with the whole con weekend but once I got home everything caught up with me. I slept for God knows how long and ate like a starving man, that's what cons do to you, I guess.
I'm going through AN withdrawal right now but I'm getting ready for Fan Expo, I hope next year will be so much better.

Summer Meetings from June-August!

2011-06-06T06:26:00.000-07:00

JUNE 17th - MANGA JAMS!
We'll be writing/drawing collaborative Manga pages. One page will have a theme (example- "Death") where one artist draws one panel to start off the page then passes it to another person to draw the next panel. Absurd hilarity ensues at the last panel. Meeting held in the Central Library, second floor, CL3 at 3:45PM-5:00PM.

JULY 15th - Singstar Karaoke
Sing your favourite rock ballads, top 40 hits, and retro pop tracks with Playstation 3's Singstar. There are over 200+ songs to choose from. Meeting held in the Central Library, Ground floor program room at new earlier time 3:00PM-4:30PM.

AUGUST 5th - Cosplay Picnic at Celebration Square
Bring your baskets, picnic baskets and sunscreen for cosplay fun in the sun on the lawn of the new Celebration Square (outside the Central Library)! Invite your fellow cosplay enthusiasts for this event. Since the Celebration Square is a public area, please dress and act appropriately! Also, no litterbugs! Picnic starts at 1:00PM and ends at 4:00PM, but cosplayers can stay longer as they feel.

AUGUST 12th - VIDEO GAME JAMS!
We'll be playing Wii and Playstation 3 games on the big screen! Some of the games you may find are New Super Mario Bros Wii, Super Smash Bros BRAWL, Scott Pilgrim, Marvel vs Capcom 3, just to name a few. Starts at 3:00PM and ends at 4:30PM at the Central Library, ground floor program room.

Also check the Event listings for Video Game Dayz.

Call for Submissions: ANIME NORTH reviews!

2011-06-01T06:14:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was Anime North! How was it compared to the past years? As packed as Fan Expo? Did you take part in any contests or the masquearade? Submit a review of AN2011 and get a prize from the Otaku Stash Box! Reviews must be 40 words or more. Email your reviews to jason.loo@mississauga.ca Deadline is June 7th!

May 20th - Otaku Pictionary!

2011-05-07T06:56:00.000-07:00

On our May 20th MTAC meeting, we'll be playing Otaku Pictionary at the Central Library, second floor, room CL3!
We'll have two giant easels for speed drawers on each team to sketch simultaneously (ftw).

We'll also have time to discuss the upcoming Anime North!

Pocky and juice will be provided.

Event starts at 3:45PM!

VIDEO GAME JAMS in April! (EDIT: Also May 6)

2011-04-04T15:17:00.000-07:00

EDIT : April 8th and MAY 6TH, we'll be busting out the digital projector for Marvel vs Capcom 3 on the PS3, as well as BRAWL on Wii (bring extra controllers). Video Game Jams on May 6th will take place in the Central Library, Children's department, Story Room at 3:45-5:00PM.

Originally, April 22nd was the second date but had to be cancelled due to Good Friday.

A visit from Svetlana Chmakova

2011-04-01T10:30:00.000-07:00

MTAC had a very pleasant evening with a meet-and-greet presentation from Svetlana Chmakova. Svetlana showed us her early works when she was a teen, her animation projects in her Sheridan years, past freelance works (ie.Dragonball Z toy concept), and her upcoming manga project with author James Patterson. More pics can be found here.

2011-03-14T21:03:00.000-07:00

Thoughts and prayers to everyone in Japan. Please help out the Red Cross relief efforts with a donation.

Anime Screening: Ouran High School Host Club on March 25th

2011-03-04T15:27:00.000-08:00

MLS Teen Anime Club presents

An Anime Screening courtesy of OperationAnime.com

Ouran High School Host Club

Mississauga Central Library, Noel Ryan Auditorium

Friday, March 25th 2010

4 p.m. - 6p.m.

Free Admission!

Ouran High School Host Club is a PG-14 rated film.

What's it about? Ouran Academy: An institution of extravagance and prestige where learning comes secondary to luxury. But for studious Haruhi Fujioka, education is a privilege that must be earned, being on scholarship and out of place among the moneyed. That is until the day Haruhi stumbles upon the Host Club, a stumble which leaves the freshman indebted for millions of yen. And the only way to pay for the damages? Well, Haruhi will work as a Host. There’s only one problem: Haru-he is actually a Haru-she!

From the troublesome twins with their little games to the self-proclaimed “king” obsessed with the club’s newest member, these boys will cater to any desire. Freshman year definitely looks like it will be one to remember!

A visit from Svetlana Chmakova

2011-02-22T10:44:00.000-08:00

Come and meet the mega-talented Svetlana Chmakova on Thursday, March 24th at 5PM in the Central Library, Noel Ryan Auditorium. Tell all your friends!

Svetlana is the manga creator behind Tokyopop's Dramacon and Yen Press' Nightschool. Her work has also been seen in CosmoGIRL!.

FEBRUARY 11TH MEETING CANCELLED!

2011-02-10T11:59:00.000-08:00

This Friday's meeting is canceled. I'm currently suffering serious neck problems and I'll be on heavy medication that won't allow me to work for the next two days.

Paper Robots will resume on Feb 25th and continue on March 11th.
Cheers,
-Jason

Paper Robots in February meetings

2011-02-07T11:34:00.000-08:00

February 11th and 25th, we'll be contructing Paper Robots!
I’ll supply the paper, instructions, templates, scissors, rubber bands, strings, glue, and tape. But bring any drawing supplies you may need. This Friday we will learn to make a blank robot so we can understand the construction process, then on Feb 25th, we will customize our own models.
Meetings will take place from 3:30-5PM on the second floor, room CL3 of the Central Library.

MTAC's Omamori amulets

2011-01-29T07:34:00.000-08:00

Omamori Craft Workshop on January 28th!

2011-01-21T12:32:00.001-08:00

On Friday, January 28th, we will be making Omamori amulets! Bring whatever fabrics and sewing kits you wish to use for your Omamori as we will all do the craft step-by-step. MTAC coordinators will try to supply as much spare fabric, scissors, sewing needles as possible for everyone to get involved with the craft. Meeting starts at 3:45PM at the Central Library's second floor, room CL3.

-Jason

Manga Review : Full Moon o Sagashite

2010-12-15T15:52:00.000-08:00

Full Moon is a manga (and also anime) with themes like singing, love and shinigami. The main character, Mitsuki Koyama has a throat tumor, yet she has a dream about being a famous singer. Back when Mitsuki was in the orphanage, she promised Eichi Sakurai that she would someday become a singer. She eventually lost contact with him and thought singing was the only way for her to become closer to finding him. Doctors predict that she will die in a year unless if she does a surgery which will affect her vocal cords. Mitsuki refuses to do the surgery and runs away. The story then goes on to how the two shinigami, Meroko and Takuto helped her to acheive her dream.
This was definitely one of my favourite mangas. The art is AMAZING and cute! The storyline was, in my opinion, fun to read. The story was bittersweet with some sadness. I have also watched the anime and found that the anime was way more lighthearted and funny. I would recommend it for people who like reading romance as it is a typical shoujo manga.

Review by Irene C.

MTAC XMAS Party on December 17th!

2010-12-10T15:42:00.000-08:00

Hey MTACkers!

We'll finally be celebrating MTAC's TWO-Year anniversary (along with the Christmas holidays and an MTAC member's birthday!) on Friday, December 17th! We'll have the Wii and PS3 set-up on the projector, pizza, and other treats! If you have never been to an MTAC meeting before or haven't been to a meeting for a long while, this is a great time to meet others from the club or hang out with your old friends.

The MTAC holiday party will be held on the second floor of the Central Library in room CL3 (the big room) at 3:30PM!

See you guys there!

-Jason

Speed Drawing Challenges - Nov 20th meeting

2010-11-23T15:39:00.001-08:00

In the spirit of the release of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, our speed drawing challenges were all HP-themed.

Nov-Dec Meetings!

2010-11-15T14:41:00.000-08:00

November 19 - Something we haven't done for a while is Speed Drawing Challenges like here and here. We'll come up with some wacky and twisted themes for each challenge ie. Manga Santa and Rudolph. Also, we'll bust out a game of Otaku Cranium!
Meeting starts at 3:30PM in the Central Library, second floor, room CL3!

December 3rd - Anime Screening of Full Metal Alchemist Brotherhood! Show starts at 4PM and ends at 6PM, in the Central Library, Noel Ryan Auditorium.

What it's about:

Two brothers search for a way to make their bodies whole again after alchemy experiment goes wrong. This search pits these young alchemists against the magic-wielding military, mystic vigilantes and a group of beings created and named for the seven deadly sins. The brothers must fight for their lives and seek out the truth if they are to ever regain what they have lost.

December 17th - MTAC Holiday Celebration! We'll have the Wii and PS3 game systems set up (one will be on the projector!), pizza, and other snacks! If you have never been to an MTAC meeting before or haven't been to a meeting for a long while, this is a great time to meet others from the club or hang out with old acquintances. Plus, it's Olivia's birthday, another good excuse to come and celebrate! Celebration starts at 3:30PM in the Central Library, second floor, room CL3!

Photos from the MissLitFest 2010!

2010-09-27T14:33:00.000-07:00

Check out some of the pics from the MissLitFest on the Facebook MTAC Group page!

Haunted House in the Children's Department!

2010-09-21T08:42:00.000-07:00

At our October 22nd meeting, we will be meeting up at the Children's Department in the lower level of the Central Library to transform our Craft Room into a walkthrough Haunted House! Supplies will be provided to turn the colourful, cheerful room into something dark and bone-chilling. Set-up starts at 3pm and ends at 5.

We also need volunteers to help operate the haunted house on October 23rd and October 30th from 9:30am-2pm. This will help go towards your volunteer hours for school. Come in costume! Zombies, Vampires, and other ghouls are welcomed. Please contact me at jason.loo@mississauga.ca if you are able to help out.

Sept and Oct Meetings

2010-08-24T10:26:00.000-07:00

Hey MTACkers!

During our September meetings, we’ll be heavily focused on the Mississauga Literary Festival. Not only will we be promoting the club at the event, our club has been assigned to design a book truck for the book truck parade. Last year was so much fun, our club really brought up a lot of energy to the festival. Please contact me ASAP if you are able to volunteer this year (and if you’ll be coming in costume).
Mississauga Literary Festival happens on Sept 19th, 11-3pm.

Sept. 3rd –The Friday after Fan Expo. We’ll have some Fan Expo discussions where you can show off your findings/treasures. We’ll also brainstorm on a design for the book truck. This truck will represent Children’s Services, so think of titles we can incorporate on the truck (even Manga/graphic novel titles from the Junior section). If you are planning on cosplaying for the festival, here’s your chance to also work on your costumes.

Sept. 10th – The following week, we’ll have another work session on the book truck and/or cosplay costumes.

Sept. 17th – The last Friday before the Festival. Finishing touches on the book truck and your cosplay costumes.

Oct 22nd and 29th– With Halloween not far away from these dates, we’ll be constructing a haunted house in the Craft Room like last year’s big success! And we’ll be planning on opening the Haunted House for two dates. Let me know if you’ll be able to volunteer in working the Haunted House for October 23rd and October 30th.

Hope to hear from you guys soon and see you at Fan Expo!
-Jason
jason.loo@mississauga.ca

Manga Review: Tail of the Moon

2010-07-09T08:17:00.000-07:00

Tail of the Moon is a “romantic ninja comedy” that contains some history by Rinko Ueda. It is a about a kunoichi named Usagi who seems very hopeless at being one so her grandfather sends her out to marry a ninja named Hanzo and bear his children. At first he rejects her and doesn’t want to get married, but as Usagi stays by his side, time and events bring them closer together as the story progresses.

I thought I would pick this up because I thought 15 volumes would keep me entertained over the summer but when I started reading I thought it was a pretty good story. There are funny, dramatic and action scenes that mix things up a bit and keep the story interesting. The style of art isn’t my most favourite, but it is pretty. For those who aren’t a fan of shojo-iness, then maybe this isn’t the best choice because at times it does become redundant. Overall, this story is a good read, it’s a relaxed story you can pick up and read when you’re in any type of mood. All 15 volumes are in the Central library if anyone wants to take a look.

Review by Carla V.

Events in July and August!

2010-07-02T06:57:00.000-07:00

July 9th - We'll be playing Go courtesy of Golden Key Cultural Centre. They'll be supplying us with multiple boards for everyone to play. Are you new to the game? We'll have an instructional refresher before game time.
3:30-5:30PM Central Library, 2nd floor, room CL3

July 15th - There will be a Build-A-Plushie workshop ran by me, MTAC teen coordinators Celina and Olivia, and Reader's Den. We'll have supplies, but participants are encouraged to bring their own as well. If you're interested in attending this workshop, you'll first need to register at the Reader's Den in the Central Library.
2-4PM Central Library, 2nd floor, room CL3

July 23rd - Anime Screening: We'll be watching Soul Eater!
3-5PM Central Library, Noel Ryan Auditorium

What's it about? Maka is a Meister and Soul is her Weapon. As students at the Grim Reaper’s Death Weapon Meister Academy, their study habits couldn’t be more different. But in battle against the supernatural forces of evil, they’re a freakin’ lethal team.

That’s when Soul transforms – literally – into a razor-sharp scythe, and every defeated wicked soul he sucks down makes him more deadly. That’s when Maka unleashes the merciless slayer within, wielding her partner and dropping monsters. Seriously. Monsters. Like the witches, werewolves, and zombies that lurk in the shadows and feed on the souls of the innocent. Every freakish ghoul Maka and Soul take out strengthens their bond, and fighting alongside their fellow Meister/Weapon classmates, Maka and Soul are the world’s last line of defense against evil.

August 6th - Video Game Jam! We'll be playing DDR and Street Fighter IV tournament on the big screen! So practice your button-mashing skills and your fancy footwork.
3:00-5:00PM Central Library, Noel Ryan Auditorium

August 20th - Video Game Jam! Part II! Plus, just days before Fan Expo, this is also your time to show off your cosplay costumes and plan out your Fan Expo weekend.

Let's make this an awesome summer!!!

-Jason

Meeting on June 25th: Tanabata Festival

2010-06-16T14:07:00.000-07:00

From the Wikipedia:
Tanabata (七夕, tanabata?, meaning "Evening of the seventh") is a Japanese star festival, derived from the Chinese star festival, Qi Xi (七夕 "The Night of Sevens")．

It celebrates the meeting of Orihime (Vega) and Hikoboshi (Altair). The Milky Way, a river made from stars that crosses the sky, separates these lovers, and they are allowed to meet only once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunisolar calendar. The celebration is held at night, once the stars come out.

Large-scale Tanabata festivals are held in many places in Japan, mainly along shopping malls and streets, which are decorated with large, colorful streamers.

In our June 25th meeting, we'll be constructing a Tanabata tree and filling it with wishful ornaments. The Tanabata tree will then be displayed at the Reader's Den department for the public to add their wishes on the tree. Meeting will start at 3:45pm in room CL2 (second floor of the Central Library).

-Jason

Manga Review: Suzuka

2010-05-17T17:21:00.000-07:00

Suzuka is manga written by Kouji Seo. Moving to a new city, a boy named Yamato seeks a new change in his life. As he crosses by his new high school, he is caught off guard by a girl performing a successful high jump over the height of 1.6 meters. Moving into his new apartment, Yamato finds out that the girl that he saw earlier lives right beside him, and that her name is Suzuka. As he becomes closer and closer to Suzuka, he wishes to become more than a friend. He eventually takes a chance and asks her out to the amusement park... only to get asked out by her instead! Near the end of the date, he puts forth his courage and asks her to be his girlfriend. Being rejected for an unknown reason, Yamato loses all hope. Being lectured by one of his friends, he realizes that he should not give up, and should keep trying. His whole new life starts from here.
After reading all 18 volumes of Suzuka thrice, the series remains in my must-read box. The story starts off immature... but grows much deeper as the plot develops. Throughout the plot, a series of themes can be pointed out, such as never giving up, and to taking that one step forward in the desire for change. The life of Yamato is depicted from the beginning of his high school years, all the way to university within this manga. In such a short time period, he learns much about himself and about the people around him.
Being able to relate to Yamato was what made Suzuka so much fun to read. With his life filled with relationship, romance, and problems, there was never a dull moment throughout the story. The issues that he faces are very common with many teenagers today. I recommend this to anyone who is looking something to change in their lives.

Review by Donald L.

Meeting before Anime North!

2010-05-11T10:10:00.000-07:00

May 21st is our last meeting before ANIME NORTH!
It'll take place in the Central Library, second floor, room CL3 AT 3:45PM!

We're going to make plushies again. So bring your sewing kits and any fabrics for your plush! You will also be able to work on your cosplay costumes. Manga Jam pages will also be around...
-Jason

Manga Review: Nana

2010-05-07T10:41:00.000-07:00

Nana "Hachi" Komatsu moves to Tokyo in search for for a new life and a clean start. Nana Osaki arrives in Tokyo at the same time, looking to further her career in rock and roll! Nana with her guitar and pack of cigarettes and Hachi with her luggage full of clothes are thrown together by fate while sitting together on the train to Tokyo. One trying to be a singer without the help of her boyfriend while the other is just following her boyfriend out of her spoiled personality, the two Nanas meet each other in the train, make friends, and through a series of fortunate events, end up sharing a flat together. This manga by Ai Yazawa would then develop into a friendship story between the two Nanas, each with a different background, past, lifestyle and attitude, and how they walk the path in pursuing their dreams of love, career, and happiness.
For a shoujo manga, Ai Yazawa uses a very unique style of art (Not like typical shoujo which is full of sparkles, flowers, and bubbles~), incorporating heavily screentoned photographs to serve as backgrounds. Her style is gothic and edgy, and each of her characters have their own unique style and personaility. It has a fun plot that is relevant to our everyday life, and it is easy to relate to the characters.
Definitely not a manga to miss to all those shoujo manga fans :)
(Suitable for people 15+ due to sexual references)

Review by Cianna W.

We are now on Facebook!

2010-05-06T08:45:00.000-07:00

MTAC Anime Screening: Tsubasa - April 9th

2010-03-22T15:33:00.000-07:00

MLS Teen Anime Club presents

An Anime Screening courtesy of OperationAnime.com

Tsubasa

Mississauga Central Library, Noel Ryan Auditorium

Friday, April 9th 2010

4 p.m. - 6p.m.

Free Admission!

Tsubasa is a PG rated film.

What's it about? "Her Soul. His Sacrifice."

The fates shine upon young archeologist Syaoran and his life-long love, the princess Sakura. As the moon hovers silently above the kingdom a beautiful and otherworldly sound fills the air, drawing the princess to the ancient ruins. Her latent powers stir, awakening an ability to cross dimensions. But the process is interrupted as unseen forces conspire to claim this magic as their own. Sakura’s soul is sent adrift across the universe, each memory a feather dancing through the stars. Syaoran will make heroic sacrifices to track down the remnants of her soul… With fellow travelers Kurogane and Fai, a warrior and a wizard, an epic quest begins.

Video Clip of the Week:

2010-03-01T13:25:00.000-08:00

Elite Beat Agents

Video Clip of the Week

2010-02-22T21:47:00.000-08:00

The New Super Mario Bros for the Wii is now available at the Mississauga Library System!

MTAC Anime Screening in March: Case Closed!

2010-02-20T08:36:00.000-08:00

MLS Teen Anime Club presents

An Anime Screening courtesy of OperationAnime.com

Case Closed : Last Wizard of the Century

Mississauga Central Library, Noel Ryan Auditorium

Friday, March 12th 2010

4 p.m. - 6p.m.

Free Admission!

Case Closed is a PG rated film.

What's it about? A phantom thief is on the loose, and his explosive capers are knocking out lights all over town! His target is a priceless Russian heirloom that people are literally dying to get their hands on. Pint-sized gumshoe Conan Edogawa is on the case, but there's more to this mystery than anyone suspects. The good guys seem bad and the bad guys seem good, and not even the boy detective knows who to trust. Worse yet, a rogue sniper is making sure anyone in the way catches a bullet dead in the eye. Things are heating up, and Conan's gonna need help to uncover the Last Wizard of the Century!

Video Games in the Library!

2010-02-11T06:44:00.000-08:00

Coming soon to the Mississauga Library System... video games for Nintendo Wii, XBox 360 and Playstation 3! Check out the library catalogue to see our growing list of titles by searching under "Main Words in Title" and type in one of the aforementioned game consoles.

Manga Review: Rebirth

2010-02-01T06:18:00.000-08:00

REBIRTH Summary: In the 17th century the vampire Deshwitat, betrayed by his friend Kalutika, is sealed away in imprisonment until 300 years later when Remi Do accidentally resurrects the revenge thirsty vampire. Deshwitat, accompanied by Remi, Millenear Shephield,and Rett Butler set off on the quest of defeating Kalutika and getting revenge for the death of Deshwitat's love, Lilith.

The manga... or rather manhwa, Rebirth can positively be the best specimen of manga. Although the story seems to be more male oriented, it's actually a romantic story. Within the dramatic moments, heated arguments and strides for truth, lies a more meaningful story.

Woo has a very excellent way of bringing his stories to light. Each character has very distinct qualities that make them each unique rather than the usual shoujo with really peppy characters of the usual shounen with power-trip characters.

All in all I give this manhwa a 7.5 out of ten. The story, beautiful. The artwork, fantastic. Woo is a wonderful mangaka.

Review by Kyosha S.

MTAC Successes of 2009!

2010-01-15T08:10:00.000-08:00

2009 was a great year for MLS Teen Anime Club! Here are just some of the amazing things we contributed to the Mississauga Library System:

-More than 25 new graphic novel/manga titles were selected for addition to the Mississauga Library System's collection thanks to the MTAC members! As of right now, S. A., Air Gear, and Hayate the Combat Butler are just a few of the new titles you can find in the Mississauga Library Catalogue thanks to MTAC.

-MTAC members volunteered their time to help build a successful haunted house for the Central Library Children Services' Halloween event.

-MTAC members brought with them a lot of enthusiasm at the Mississauga Book Fair to promote the MLS Teen Anime Club to other teens, as well as entertaining crowds with their dance performances.

-Our growing numbers in the club allowed us to screen new Anime titles at the Central Library's Noel Ryan Auditorium thanks to our friends at Operation Anime of FUNimation Entertainment.

I'd like to thank our very active members (in no particular order): Niki, Olivia, Kasia, Liz Z, Cianna, Carla, Angelie, Reuben, Celina, Daryll, Kyosha, Kaye, Keney, Rycka, Michelle S, "DJ" aka David, and Jessica Ferreira of the Courtney Park Library for making this one awesome Otaku club! Let's make 2010 an even better year!

-Jason Loo
MLS Teen Anime Club Founder and Coordinator

Manga Review: Apothecarius Argentum

2010-01-15T07:52:00.000-08:00

Summary
"Argent was fed poison during his youth to turn him into the ultimate assassin with an immunity to poison. The King of Beazol bought the slave boy to be the food tester for his daughter Primula. However, the princess frees Argent and instructs him to flee from the palace. Years later, he reappears as a master chemist and skilled healer and saves Primula from an assassination attempt. As a result, he's promoted to the position of Royal Apothecary. But any potential relationship will have its limits as Argentum's very touch has become poisonous."

Review
If you asked me what kind of manga I read most often, I would reply: "Shoujo", but my manga pet-peeve is weak, useless heroines. That is exactly why I like Apothecarius Argentum. The leading girl is strong, and the other characters are just as entertaining. Another thing that sets this manga apart from other shoujos is that it has a storyline other than the main characters trying to get together. The storyline is very original and unpredictable, and every chapter seemed like something new rather than the same scenarios repeated.

While reading this manga I also learned a lot about different chemicals and poisons that actually exist -at the end of each volume is a guide to the different chemicals that show up in the story. Usually "learn" and "manga" don't belong in the same sentence (I know I'm not a fan of science), but it gives the manga a realistic feel.

The art doesn't seem spectacular at first glance, but as you keep reading it grows on you and you can feel the characters' emotions portrayed very clearly.

My only regret about reading this series: I did not want to know where the red colour in my Fruitopia came from (look up "cochineal" on Wikipedia).

You can find the first 8 volumes at the library, if you're interested in reading it.

Review by Liz Z.

January and February Meetings!

2009-12-30T15:52:00.001-08:00

January 15th meeting - We'll have two Wii-systems playing the New Super Mario! Bring extra controllers for multiplayer-action! This will be held in the Central Library, Children's Services, Story room @ 3:45pm!

UPDATE!!! February 12th meeting! We'll be tapping into the board game of GO (made famous by Hikaru no GO) from a representative of Golden Key Cultural Center. They will provide us the game sets and teach us the ways of GO!

Be sure to check the event listings on the left-hand margin for the details.

MTAC Anime Screening in December: Black Cat (vol.1)

2009-12-01T10:58:00.000-08:00

MLS Teen Anime Club presents
An Anime Screening courtesy of OperationAnime.com
Black Cat (vol. 1)

Mississauga Central Library, Noel Ryan Auditorium
Friday, December 18th 2009
4 p.m. - 6p.m.
Free Admission!
Black Cat is a PG rated film

What's it about? Sven is your run-of-the-mill sweeper (a.k.a. bounty hunter) – down on his luck, haunted by the perpetual grumbling of this stomach and looking to make enough cash just to get by. Oh, and he can see the future, but only about five minutes into it. When a dirty politician lands a price on his head, this sweeper jumps at the chance to turn a quick buck. But as he’s working to secure the target, his vision reveals an assassination that will cost him the job. A confrontation with the mysterious killer and Sven has no idea that he’s brushed up against the worst possible luck...

Manga Review: Special A (S.A.)

2009-11-27T10:25:00.000-08:00

S.A. This story is centered around two high school students, Hanazono Hikari and Takishima Kei. However hard she tries in school, Kei always beats her, therefore earning her the title "Ms. #2". Kei, undeniably, is in love with Hikari, and everybody realizes this except for herself! They were introduced to each other at a young age, as their fathers were friends. Assuming that she was the best in wrestling, young Hikari challenged Kei to a wrestling match only to be thoroughly defeated by him. Ever since that fateful incident, Hikari swore to beat Kei in school grades, a sporting event - anything. To do this she has enrolled in the same school as Kei since elementary. Now she attends Hakusenkan, an ultra elite school, that costs her carpenter father a lot of money. Hikari and Kei are the top two students in the school, with Kei holding firmly to that number one position.

This manga is one of your typical shojo manga; chock full of adorable art and beautiful characters! It is also quite humorous, but light enough not to distract from the romance aspect. Maki Minami creates charming characters, who in the end, all have their own happy endings! Perfect for the type of shoujo-lover who likes it when everybody has somebody to end up with. :)

Review by Cianna W.

1MSDC: One-Minute Speed-Drawing Challenge Oct. 16

2009-10-17T07:51:00.000-07:00

MANGA REVIEW: Boys Be...

2009-10-16T15:53:00.000-07:00

The Boys Be manga comprises of multiple short stories, each about how a guy tries to date a girl, or how a guy deals with relationship problems with a girl, and all kinds of situations you can think of, involving a guy and girl. The stories mainly revolve around the guy, and through reading the story, you find out how he thinks and acts. In the process, guys can learn many tips involving girls to be found in this very manga. Not only is it funny, it is a pleasure just pick up and read. You do not need to start at volume 1, as each manga has a unique short story to enjoy.

Honestly, this manga is directed toward guys... lol. I showed a female friend of mine this and she just threw it back at me! But seriously, there is a lot of fun, realistic stories you can read in this manga. If you don't know much about girls, this is a good place to start if you are afraid to talk to them (shy guys). If anyone has read Train Man (Densha Otoko) or Salad Days you will most likely love this.

Review by Donald L.

1MSDC = One-Minute Speed Drawing Challenge!

2009-10-03T06:47:00.000-07:00

A new game was born when Kyosha was showing off her thirty-second sketches at our last meeting: the One-Minute Speed Drawing Challenge!

MTAC Anime Screening in October: Moon Phase

2009-09-22T13:28:00.000-07:00

MLS Teen Anime Club presents

An Anime Screening courtesy of OperationAnime.com

Moon Phase (vol. 1)

Mississauga Central Library, Noel Ryan Auditorium

Friday, October 30th 2009

4 p.m. - 6p.m.

Free Admission!

Moon Phase is a PG rated film.

What's it about? A vision of grace and beauty trapped within the ancient walls of a forgotten castle, awaiting the one who will set her free.

While Kouhei ranks among the best in paranormal photography, he’s never actually seen a ghost! So when he fails to capture a hauntingly beautiful young girl on camera, curiosity drives him into the arms of a haughty vampire and a world he cannot comprehend. The vampire Hazuki, having waited years for someone to finally set her free, proves unwilling to part with her unwitting hero and follows him home, promptly adopting his life as her own. And as the adolescent vampire wreaks her own flavor of havoc, mysterious forces conspire to reclaim what was lost. Some riddles are best left unsolved…

Manga Jams!

2009-09-10T07:45:00.001-07:00

Manga Jam pages from August meeting.

Drawn by Chad O. and Argyle B.

Drawn by Rycka C. and Cianna M.

Review on Fan Expo 2009

2009-09-04T08:23:00.000-07:00

I only attended one of the days, August 29th (being the Saturday.) I attended with 2of my other friends. I cosplayed as Suiseiseki from Rozen Maiden, and one of my friends cosplayed Chii from Chobits.

This was a particularly new experience to me, as the only other convention that I had attended was Anime North. Fan Expo was pretty fun, but when compared to Anime North, I would probably rate it a 4/10.

UUUUUGHHHHHHHHHH. Is all I have to say.
My friend went there two years ago, and told me it wasn't very good. She came back this year hoping for some improvements.... not so much, though.
I guess it's because it's a con split up between 5 different genres. It's not exactly all dedicated to anime so I didn't really do a whole lot of shopping. I did get a a poster, some Vocaloid prints and some lolita accessories though.

As for cosplayers, there weren't as many as I hoped there would be. The majority of cosplayers (I'm guessing) were characters from comic books. However, some of the cosplayers were amazing! There were zombies, anime characters, Marvel characters and a whole load of Darth Vaders and Stormtroopers. Also, my friend (Chii) and I got a lot of attention because our costumes were frilly and lolita-ish.

I would attend this convention again, but probably just to cosplay and see the costumes. (Maybe just sneak downstairs and sit around and have a cosplay picnic.)
But I would recommend this convention to people who are more interested in comic books, gaming, and horror!

Review by Cianna W.

Fan Expo 2009!

2009-08-28T06:56:00.000-07:00

This weekend is the big all-in-one comic/anime/gaming/horror event in Canada! Fan Expo will be at the Metro Convention Centre. I'm sure you're all gonna be there in some capacity, either as a cosplayer, a gamer, a shopper, an artist, or even just as a spectator. Feel free to share your Fan Expo 2009 experience on the blog. Just email your convention stories to jason.loo@mississauga.ca. Hope to see you there!

Manga Review: Dazzle

2009-08-19T14:12:00.001-07:00

Dazzle is a story about two very different people on a hilarious action-packed adventure. The adventure begins after Rahzel is suddenly kicked out of her house after her dad tells her she should see the world. Along the way she meets Alzeid who is trying to get revenge for the death of his father. While travelling from town to town trying to solve questions about their pasts, they often end up helping others and acquiring new allies as well as enemies.
This manga is in no way a typical shoujo manga- the characters all have very unique personalities, and the story is not completely focused on romance. The story starts off on a light tone, but in some instances it becomes over-serious. At the beginning there seems to be little storyline, but as you keep reading it becomes more clear. The artwork in this book is very stunning. The characters facial expressions look very realistic yet simple. The characters’ clothing is always very detailed and eye-catching. How rare to find characters that regularly change their clothes/hairstyle!
You can find this manga at the library (first three volumes), and at Chapters (first ten volumes). It was also made into an anime (called “Hatenkou Yuugi”).

Review by Liz Z.

Manga Review: Soul Rescue

2009-08-10T15:35:00.000-07:00

Soul Rescue is centered around the story of a rogue angel called Renji. Renji only knows how to fight, and as a punishment for being too violent, God sends him to Earth. In order to return back to Heaven, Renji must save 10 000 human souls. God also sends an elite angel called Kaito to watch over Renji and to help him with his mission. Before Renji is sent to heaven, God gives him a special power that will help him save the souls; a power called 'Soul Rescue', which will help to relieve humans of emotional and physical damage.

When I first started reading this manga, I was intrigued with the style of art (which was very detailed and original), and also how smooth the transitions from page to page were. At the beginning of the story, I was fairly confused because it jumped straight into the story without a brief introduction. However, after reading deeper into the manga, past events were explained to give the reader a more clear understanding of the storyline. I also liked how much the manga could appeal to both fans of shounen and shoujo manga. It contained both action and battle scenes (for shounen fans), plus some light romance for shoujo fans. Unfortunately, the library only owns the first two volumes, but I would recommend this for all manga fans! :D

Review by Cianna W.

MTAC Anime Screening in August: Suzuka vol. 1

2009-07-29T14:38:00.000-07:00

MLS Teen Anime Club presents

An Anime Screening courtesy of OperationAnime.com

Suzuka (vol. 1)

Mississauga Central Library, Noel Ryan Auditorium

Thursday, August 20th, 2009

2 p.m. - 4p.m.

Free Admission!

Suzuka is a PG rated film.

What's it about? High School is a hectic time of change for most… But for happy-go-lucky Yamato, it’s gonna be a complete revolution! He’s the new kid in class, having transferred to the big city to attend Aoba High, where he finds himself smitten with the local rising star of track and field. Yet two people could not be more different!

As Suzuka remains completely uninspired by Yamato’s cheerfully irresponsible nature, things progress from bad to worse with record-breaking speed. So when the young man decides to step up his efforts and join the track team, his best might not measure up!

It’s mixed signals and high school hormones with everyone running in circles! Throw in the antics of a handful of high school stereotypes, and Yamato’s completely out of his league! When love is not a spectator sport, the only question is who will go the distance?

MTAC Anime Screening: xxxHolic

2009-06-26T13:29:00.000-07:00

MLS Teen Anime Club presents
An Anime Screening courtesy of OperationAnime.com
xxxHolic

Mississauga Central Library, 2nd Floor, Room CL4
Friday, July 10th, 2009
3 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Free Admission!
xxxHolic is a PG rated film.

What's it about? Watanuki has been haunted by dark spirits his entire life, a curse flowing through his bloodline preventing peace. When his incessant demons drag him to the ornate door of the Dimensional Witch Yuko, he meets a mystical woman of insight and luxury, quick to help those in a bind... For a fee! One might very well end up paying with their soul! To be free of his visions, Watanuki will work in her shop of dreams and wishes. There is always a price to pay...

Manga Jams! June 12th Edition

2009-06-17T12:35:00.001-07:00

Contributing artists in these following Manga Jams: Angelie D., Celina C., David W., Daryll H., Gemma S., Kyosha S., Liz Z., Michelle J., Olivia D., and myself.

RECAP: Anime North 2009!

2009-06-09T06:58:00.000-07:00

Whoa, so much to say about Anime North! Svetlana Chmakova jokingly refers to anime conventions as “An exhibition of Japanese culture, a festival that celebrates our national diversity through the merging of art, writing and electronic media.” – and it is that, and so much more! Even without buying a ticket one could enjoy some of the cream of AN’s crop – standing in line itself was an experience, as we watched streams of crazily dressed cosplayers pass us [Ayu and I] by. Too shocked to even take pictures, we watched the myth of guys-dressed-in-school-girl-outfits come true, as well as someone totting around a GIANT ninja star. Love it already! The inside of the Congress Centre turned out to be more or less a warehouse, but the stuff on the ground was enough to make up for the appearance of the actual building. We first visited the Creater’s Corner, and if not for some careful planning and money-paranoia, I could have easily spent ALL of my money there. Such amazing Fan-Art!!!! O.O And the pins…XD Not to mention all the authors were so nice and understandingly answered our questions, even if we didn’t buy anything. After this came, of course, the renown Dealer’s Room! Ayu and I had only ever been to Dot Con, a small, shrunken cousin of AN which didn’t have an Artist’s Alley, and who’s Dealers Room was…nothing, compared to this one. Planning to return, and now joined by Ara (Kasia) we headed out to the other hotels to go to –dadadum- Panels!! Seriously, I didn’t know that anime conventions were supposed to have panels!!!! Really! I had only ever been to Dot Con, which offered two animes playing in two showrooms, so I was totally taken by surprise that we had workshops to go to! I finally understood why Cons are/were so addictive – there’s just so much to do!!! The next few ours were a blur of different places, once the Doubltree Hotel for half a writer’s panel, then a manga panel with Svet (<3) at the Renaissance, then a yummy-smelling Iron Chef panel next door. Food, I have to admit, was scarce and expensive, but luckily home-made mustard sandwiches intervened and saved my day. Finally it was back to the dealer’s room for a Svet signing, then off to the Masquerade!! I must admit I would have rather gone to Skit Night, but this almost made up for it. The MC was cleverly-funny even though he was terrible at pronouncing names, and the costumes were, of course, amazing. Then, finally, heavy with purchases and new memories, Ayu and I dragged ourselves home, happy and exhausted.
-Olivia D.

Anime North was great in my opinion! It was my first ever anime convention and I enjoyed it so much. I bought an awesome dagger for ten bucks and 325 cards for a trading card game I didn’t know how to play (and apparently no one else does either). I am totally looking forward to next year, where I will cosplay as a character in a manga I’m trying to draw (the only problem is that I suck at drawing).
-David W.

MANGA REVIEW: Monster

2009-06-08T12:19:00.000-07:00

For about a week now I have been reading a manga called Monster. It is an amazing manga and I encourage everyone who loves those twisted, serial killer-type mangas to read it. The plot doesn’t breach anything supernatural, and yet it gives you a chill down your spine. There are over 100 chapters of this creepy story, so there’s lots to read.

Review by David W.

JUNE Club Meeting Dates

2009-05-29T14:28:00.000-07:00

Here are the times/places for our June meetings:

Friday June 12th, 3:30-5pm Central Library, Children's Department, Story Room
Friday June 26th, 3:30-5pm Central Library, 2nd Floor, Room CL2

Remember to write your review about Anime North. All reviewers will get a prize in our June 12th meeting. Deadline is June 10th. But also feel free to submit your reviews on the latest Manga/Anime or fan art for the blog (Prizes will be rewarded).

Manga Jams!

2009-05-08T08:36:00.000-07:00

Here are some Manga Jams from our last meeting!

Manga Jam artists: Angelie, Daryll, Kyosha, and Jason.

Behold! The new M-TAC logo!

2009-04-26T09:34:00.000-07:00

Here is the new club logo for M-TAC! The concept was designed by M-TAC club member Angelie D. The design was then vectorized/colorized through Adobe Illustrator by me. Pins will be made of this design so they can be worn by M-TAC club members at conventions like Anime North.

-Jason

May Club meeting

2009-04-17T15:30:00.000-07:00

Hey fellow M-TAC members,

We're gonna have two meetings in the month of May.

Friday May 1st, 3:30-5pm Central Library, 2nd Floor, Room CL2
Friday May 29th, 3:30-5pm Central Library, Childrens Department, Story Room

In our May 1st meeting, it'll be a creative session for members to prep-up their cosplay costumes and coordinate with other members for Anime North. For the artists who like to draw fan-art/doujinshi, bring in your drawing supplies to take part in a Manga jam session (it's where artists draw a panel then pass it on to the next person to continue the story). Be there at 3:30pm!

Angelie D. designed the winning logo for our club! I will prepare pins of the design and have them ready for members at our next meeting. Angelie, remember to collect your prize!

Cheers!
-Jason Loo
M-TAC club leader

April Club meeting and Brand Contest

2009-03-25T10:33:00.000-07:00

Hey guys,
There will only be one meeting in April due to scheduling conflicts.

Friday April 3rd, 3:45-5pm Central Library, 2nd Floor, Room CL2
NEW DATE: Friday April 17th, 3:45-5pm Central Library, Children's Department, Storyroom

May 1st will be the meeting after that. Time and room to be confirmed.

Reminder: Anime North - MAY 22-24!

MLS Teen Anime Club Contest

Here's a contest I got for all you members. Our club could use two things: a cool nickname (I always thought the acronym M-TAC would be cool, but you may say different) and a wicked logo to wear on flags/pins at conventions like Anime North.
Your mission is to come up with a brand (both name and logo) that bests represents our club. You can work alone or as a team with your fellow club members. Submission deadline is April 17th. All submissions will then be posted on this blog to be voted in our blog poll. Poll results end on April 30th. I will also make the final decision after viewing the poll results. The chosen club brand will be announced on our May 1st meeting and the winner (or winners) of the chosen club brand will win a prize from our growing Otaku stash box.
Good luck!

-Jason Loo
Club Leader

March Club Meeting Dates

2009-02-23T14:40:00.000-08:00

Here are the times/places for our March meetings:

Friday March 6th, 3:30-5pm Central Library, 2nd Floor, Room CL1
Friday March 20th, 3:45-5pm Central Library, 2nd Floor, Room CL2

At our March 20th meeting, we're busting out DANCE DANCE REVOLUTION with two dance pads. So, practice/warm-up, brush off your dance shoes, do whatever you need to do for a DDR dance off. Person with the highest score will win a prize!

MANGA REVIEW: Air Gear

2009-02-03T06:13:00.000-08:00

Air Gear Summary : Minami "Ikki" Itsuki, is a student and a delinquent. Also known as the "Unbeatable Babyface", Ikki is the leader of the youth gang by the name of "East Side Gunz". Upon his return home after being humiliated by a street gang of Storm Riders called the Skull Saders Ikki discovers a secret hidden from him by his benefactors, the Noyamano sisters. The sisters belong to a group of Storm Riders who go by the team name of Sleeping Forest. Keen on helping Ikki to regain his confidence and pride, they supply him with a pair of Air Trecks (abbreviated as "AT"). Ikki eventually settles his grudge with the Skull Saders, but in the process he receives more than the simple satisfaction of revenge. Determined to experience the sensation of flight for as long as he can, our headstrong protagonist is quickly sucked into the mysterious, yet irresistible world of Air Treck.

Review : This is personally my favorite manga to read because it not only ties in major events from the real world, but also creates a distinct world that explores the idea of freedom and the personal battles each character brings to the plate, as expressed through their use of Air treck. It explores the struggle for freedom as people have lost their way on their path to their own salvation and have settled in a delusion or false sense of freedom with misplaced intentions. It is very comical when the gang spends their days off and very intense when the fights occur. It greatly advertises rollerblading and has an anime made off of it for your viewing pleasure. The story is very well-paced and a new chapter comes out eachweek.

Review by Reuben G.

WANTED: MANGA REVIEWS!!!

2009-01-05T13:43:00.000-08:00

Who's to say you have to wait till the next club meeting to tell your friends about a hot, new Manga title you've been reading?

Get your Manga book reviews posted on this blog! Simply find an awesome Manga title/volume you'd like to share and send them to me at jason.loo@mississauga.ca to be posted. Every reviewer will get a prize from the Manga grab bag.
Looking forward to seeing those reviews.

(NEW TIMESLOT) Club Meetings in February

2009-01-05T10:34:00.000-08:00

Hey fellow club members,

Hope you all had an awesome time during your holidays and plenty of big presents!
Our club meetings are now at a new timeslot. Mark these two dates off your calendar.

Friday February 6th, 3:30-5pm Central Library, 2nd Floor, Room CL1
Friday February 20th, 3:30-5pm Central Library, 2nd Floor, Room CL1

Spread the word to your friends, our meetings now happen after school every other Friday (TGIF!)

We're going to continue watching episodes of Wolf's Rain, Manga-chatting, Manga-swapping, and Wii-Action.
We still have some more prizes to give out from the grab bag filled with dvds, Manga, artbooks, and magazines like Shonen Jump! Whoever brings a new friend to the meeting can win themselves a prize.

Cheers!
-Jason
Club Co-ordinator

Club Meeting: November 27th at 5:30PM

2008-11-10T14:44:00.000-08:00

Our next meeting is at the Central Library, second floor in classroom CL1.
In the agenda, we'll have 30 minute Wii play (possibly Bleach the game), 30-40 minute manga chat, and the remaining time for an Anime viewing.

Challenge before next meeting: Make a list of ten essential/popular Anime titles that we do not have in our MLS catalogue. First person who submits a list of titles that are all popular and not found in our library collection will win a prize from our prize bag. You can leave your list on the comments of this blog or email your list to me at jason.loo@mississauga.ca

Cheers,
-Jason

Club Meeting : November 6th at 5:30PM

2008-10-21T07:50:00.000-07:00

Our next meeting will take place a week after Halloween, on November 6th at 5:30PM. Same location as last meeting: Mississauga Central Library, second floor, CL5.
We'll be having another Manga talk, Wii-action, and a viewing of Wolf's Rain.

Here's a hypothetical question: If the Mississauga Library System were to add ten Anime titles to our collection, what ten essential titles would you like to see in our collection?
Type in your top ten lists in the blog comments. Keep in mind, we do have some popular titles in our catalogue, so check and see if we may already have that title (like Bleach, Ghost in the Shell movies 1+2) before you add it to your ten top list. I'm looking forward to your feedback!

-Jason

Club Meeting : October 16 at 5:30PM (new timeslot)

2008-10-01T14:30:00.000-07:00

Hey fellow club members,
Our next club meeting will be held on October 16 at 5:30PM in the Central Library, second floor in room CL5. Same agenda as the last meeting: Manga talk and Anime viewing. The anime we'll be viewing at the meeting is the first two episodes ofGhost in the Shell: S.A.C. 2nd GIG. We still have tons of prizes to give away so the member who brings the most friends into the club will win a prize.

Club Meeting on September 25th

2008-09-15T08:38:00.000-07:00

Every member should spread the word about the club to their friends! The member who brings the most friends into the club on the 25th meeting will win a prize (a choice from a bag of art books, mangas, dvds).
For the next meeting's agenda, bring in your favourite manga/manhwa that you'd like to share with other members. We will also be viewing the first two episodes from FLAG.

Our next meeting takes place at the Central Library, second floor in room CL5 at 7PM!
Hope to see you all there!

First Club Meeting - September 11th

2008-09-10T10:39:00.001-07:00

We are just ONE day away from our first club meeting!
For tomorrow's agenda, bring in a NEW MANGA or GRAPHIC NOVEL that you're either currently reading, just read, or about to start for a little book talk. MLS Teen Anime Club wants to expand the library's collection with NEWER titles, so give us some ideas of what's currently fresh.
We will also have an ANIME VIEWING of the first two episodes of SAMURAI 7!
So tell all your friends about tomorrow's meeting, it's never too late to sign-up!

ALSO, there will be PRIZES to be won (Manga books, posters, dvds). Details will be discussed at September 11th meeting.

Manga Review: The Smuggler

2008-08-01T13:18:00.001-07:00

Shohei Manabe's The Smuggler is one of the most darkest and violent mangas I have ever read. This stand alone volume carries the spirit of such films by Tarantino (specifically Reservoir Dogs) and Beat Takeshi. What got me attracted to the book was the sketchiness in Manabe's inkwork, which was very unconventional compared to other Mangas. The stressing ink lines gives the story a rough and gritty tone throughout the entire book.
A side from the techical art aspects of the book, the story is plain morbid. Kinuta is an aspiring actor with large debt problems. In order to pay his dues to loan sharks, he must work as a courier for the mob, transporting dead bodies of victims from gang hits. Things get messy when Kinuta and his transport crew cross paths with a rival gang and two invincible Chinese assassins. This book is rated OT for Older Teens, but good luck finding this book because it is out of print.

Rating: 3.8 out of 5

Join the Mississauga Library System's Teen ANIME Club!

2008-07-12T08:10:00.000-07:00

Are you a closet otaku fan who enjoys reading manga in dark corners? Do you cosplay at conventions? Do you enjoy making your own Manga/Anime fanart and posting them on Deviantart? Do you have an entire wallspace that holds large volumes of your favourite Anime?

If you enjoy any of these activities plus others related to Manga/Anime, join our Teen Anime Club at the Mississauga Central Library!

What takes place in the Teen Anime Club?
-Discuss anything Manga/Anime-related and swap your unwanted Manga/Anime items with other club members!
-Meet new otaku friends within the club.
-Prepare for upcoming conventions and share ideas on cosplay costumes!
-Take part in collaborative Manga Art Jams!
-Recommend new Manga/Anime titles to the library collection!
-Monthly Anime viewings!
-Meet special guests!

The MLS Teen Anime Club is for the ages 13-18. Meetings are bi-weekly and run for two hours.

Sign-up starts in mid-August and the first meeting will be on Thursday September 11th at 7:00PM.

-Jason Loo, Club Coordinator