ShutterBox Volume 1: Orientation

ShutterBox: Orientation was published in 2003 by Tokyopop as part of their effort to capitalize on the growing American interest in manga by commissioning original works from Western artists. The series was created, written, and illustrated by Rikki Simons, a multifaceted artist perhaps best known for his voice work in animation and his collaborative partnership with Tavisha Wolfgarth-Simons.

The narrative follows a protagonist named Micki who gains the ability to see ghosts, framing a blend of supernatural mystery and character-driven drama. The design and aesthetic lean into the contemporary shojo and gothic-inspired trends of the early 2000s, featuring stylized character designs that reflect Simons's background in visual storytelling. Upon its release, it was noted as a distinct entry in the 'Original English-language manga' movement that characterized the North American comics landscape of the era.