Q:    This is your first graphic novel. What were some challenges of developing a plot AND illustrations at the same time? How did you overcome the challenges?
A:    I spent about one month on each process: script, pencil, ink-in, and shadow. That was pretty hard work. I usually start drawing an outline first and at the same time I add characters' lines, so it's easy for me to continue the story. I ended up drawing more than 50 bikes! In order to motivate myself, I set myself up on a regular schedule. When I got tired, I just danced crazily in my room! I couldn't show this dance to anybody, but it works great to me. I feel great after I dance!

Q:    Have you ever had a connection to an object with special meaning, like Aki's connection to her grandfather's bike in Biker Girl?
A:    I don't think I have a connection to an object, but there is one song that once made me feel depressed and moved at the same time. When I was a teenager, I was in love with one of my friends. He used to make music and he did cover songs a lot. I was in love with him for more than two years, but it didn't work out. I learned how hard heartbreak was at that time! At that time I realized that one of the songs he played all the time totally matched my situation [with him] and I felt so sentimental. I sometimes listen to the song and it reminds me of that time.

Q:    How did you come up with your unique pen name, "Misako Rocks!"?
A:    My old boyfriend and I were talking about my pen name. We wanted to make my name catchy and fun. He came up with this name and gave to me. Then, I added the at the end.

Q:    How is reading manga different from reading a non-illustrated or -graphic novel?
A:    I imagine some scenes in my head when I read a novel, but the whole manga world is right in front of you. It's so catchy and easier for me to be in love with the story. Western graphic novels tell a story with actions while manga tells a story with plot lines. Of course, graphic novels have plots too, but they seem to focus more on actions.

Depending on gender, Japanese people use different types of dialogue; there are so many ways to describe sensitive feelings and situations. That's why manga's art AND plots catches readers' hearts.

Q:    What advice do you have for girls who are interested in careers in art?
A:    Never give up! Since I was eight years old, I wanted to become a manga artist. I tried so many things &emdash; I used to be a puppeteer! If you get interested in something, don't put aside the inspiration! It might teach you something about yourself that you never realized before. Just try something once even though you might feel hesitant. You can do it!

Q:    The Girls Inc. mission is to inspire all girls to be strong, smart, and bold. How do you think manga and graphic novels can contribute to this mission?
A:    Manga has always been my "life text book." It shows you what friendship, love relationships, and family are like. They look sometimes unrealistic or realistic. When I made Biker Girl, I was thinking that Biker Girl and Aki can show readers how to be confident and independent and [show them] what first love is like!

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