Los Angeles, CA (November 20, 2002) � TOKYOPOP®, the leading U.S. publisher of graphic novels, has a message for America: You still have time to SHOW US YOUR MANGA! The company's Rising Stars of Manga™ Competition ends on December 16, 2002. Launched on August 15th of this year, this national, one-of-its-kind Contest is giving aspiring U.S. artists the opportunity of a lifetime: to submit their original stories (written in English) for the chance to win cash prizes and get their work published worldwide. With just a few short weeks left, TOKYOPOP wants to remind artists to finish drawing� and here's a little incentive:

The Contest's grand prizewinner will receive $2,500 and the chance to pitch a full-length manga series to TOKYOPOP's top brass. The second place winner will earn a cash prize of $1,000. Eight runner-ups will each receive a cash prize of $500. All ten prizewinners will be eligible to be published in a TOKYOPOP manga anthology (The Rising Stars of Manga™) scheduled for publication in Spring 2003.

The Entry Form, Official Rules, FAQ and some helpful hints are available on the TOKYOPOP® website (www.TOKYOPOP.com).

About TOKYOPOP®

TOKYOPOP®, founded in 1996, is the leading North American publisher of manga, the fastest growing category within the publishing business. With exclusive rights to hundreds of book, video and music products, the company has become a media convergence leader. TOKYOPOP has millions of books in print and publishes several hit properties based on popular Cartoon Network and Kids! WB programs. TOKYOPOP titles include Sailor Moon, Gundam Wing, Initial D, Real Bout High School and Cowboy Bebop, among others. With rapidly growing U.S. demand for its properties, TOKYOPOP is actively expanding into television, film and licensed goods. Visit www.TOKYOPOP.com for additional information.