Cosplay Girls Review

Review of “Cosplay Girls: Japan's Live Animation Heroines”:

Over the years, it has been difficult to find cosplay reference materials in the English language. We were pleasantly surprised to discover that "Cosplay Girls: Japan's Live Animation Heroines" is written in English - albeit more Engrish and cutesy in tone. This softcover book features 6 female cosplayers in a variety of costumes: Lum, Chun-Li, Cutey Honey, Misha, Rei Ayanami and Yattaman Ni-Go. The models are cute, and they are placed in everyday situations (e.g. bookstore, office, restaurant, riding a bike, etc.). Special sections entitled, "Cosplay Runway", include many pics of female cosplayers at different events. Each section is themed (e.g. Action Heroes, School Spirit, Sci-fi, Animal Kingdom, Gothic & Lolita, etc.), so one can get an idea of how diverse the cosplay genre is. Some of the costumes were lumped in weird sections, called "Asian Style" or "Stranger Than Fashion". The photos are generally full-length, so one can see the entire costume. There are also detail shots of some of the more elaborate costumes. The name, age, cosplay career and character portrayed for each cosplayer is provided. This is really a treat, if one is not familiar with many anime, game or manga characters. Also, it puts a name to a face... many of these cosplayers have been actively involved in events for years. We like the fact the book included cosplayers of different ages, bodytypes and cosplay experience. Spotlight on two cosplay-related shops: Mai:lish and Olive Akihabara. "Cosplayers at Home" features an interview with 3 female cosplayers, reflecting on their secretive and expensive hobby. In Japan, it is taboo for a young woman to publicly claim she is a cosplayer. The activity of cosplaying is not something a family openly promotes, and it cost a woman her job or marriage proposal if she is outted. Many cosplayers keep their hobby secret from co-workers and even family. Cosplayers lead a double life, and they find friends in the cosplay community for support. The "Do It Yourself" sections provide sewing, hair and make-up tips, as well as posing suggestions. The "Event Survival Tips" is an excellent source of information, regarding photographer and cosplayer etiquette. Unlike the United States, cameko (camera kids) show more respect for cosplayers by asking permission before taking their pictures. In Japan, it is common to see people exchange name cards to introduce themselves. Cameko and cosplayers exchange name cards, so they can keep in touch and insure they will be properly credited (if the photos are used in a book, magazine, CD-ROM, video, etc.). We especially enjoyed the "Both Sides of the Camera" questionnaire. It was fascinating to learn more about cosplayers and camekos on a personal level. The "Cosplay Lingo" section is very interesting, which lists common words and slang used by Japanese cosplayers. Last, but not least, the "Cosplay Then and Now" section discusses a brief history of the development of cosplay in Japan. Highlighting cosplay trends (e.g. anime, manga, video games, RPGs) and growth of popularity among Japanese youth. In this section, one will see a few male cosplayers having fun in costume. Overall, the book is an excellent introduction to the world of Japanese cosplay. We highly recommend "Cosplay Girls: Japan's Live Animation Heroines", for celebrating the fun of cosplay, and making it accessible to a non-Japanese audience.