A new bookstore named Himitsu-Concept Bookstore has recently opened in Paris, aiming to go beyond being just a place to buy books. Instead, it seeks to highlight the artistic creativity of manga and anime, offering a space for cultural exchange and learning. The owner, Marine Bougaran, brings experience from the art world and describes the bookstore as a place where visitors can buy manga, view exhibitions, attend creative workshops, or enjoy a cup of tea. This multifaceted approach aims to make manga and anime more than just entertainment, but also a medium for artistic appreciation and community engagement. The bookstore's opening in early July featured a special exhibition focusing on the works of female manga artists, including Rumiko Takahashi, known for InuYasha, and Hiromu Arakawa, the creator of Fullmetal Alchemist. This exhibition showcases the diversity and talent within the field of manga, which has historically been dominated by male creators. Future events at the bookstore include masterclasses, meetings, and various workshops, offering opportunities for both learning and interaction with the medium. Bougaran’s passion for manga and anime developed through her time on Club Dorothée, a French online platform for anime and manga enthusiasts. Combining this passion with her skills as an exhibition curator, she has curated her first exhibition using celluloids and dôga—celluloid film strips used in animation—from her personal collection, acquired through auctions. This exhibition will remain open until October 16, 2026, allowing visitors to explore the history and artistry behind animation in a unique way. The bookstore is designed to be accessible to children, with Bougaran aiming to educate young visitors about the nuances of manga and anime. She hopes to introduce them to a broader range of works and challenge stereotypes, such as the idea that manga books with pink covers are only for girls. By doing so, she wants to encourage a more inclusive and informed appreciation of the medium. Himitsu-Concept Bookstore is located at 79 rue Pelleport, 75020 Paris, and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 to 19:30.