"Nanbanjin," a derogatory term used by 16th-century Japanese to describe the first Westerners who arrived in Japan, is the title of a newly released graphic novel published by Dupuis editions. The book is presented as a "head-to-tail" piece, meaning it is designed to be read in two different ways, spanning nearly 500 pages. This unique format allows readers to engage with the story in two distinct styles, offering a layered and multifaceted experience. One side of the book is structured as a Western-style graphic novel, written and illustrated by French artist Cyril Pedrosa. Pedrosa is known for his detailed storytelling and historical narratives, often blending fact with fiction to create compelling visual histories. His version of "Nanbanjin" provides a European perspective on the encounter between Japan and the West during the 16th century. The other side of the book presents the same narrative in a traditional manga style, created by renowned Japanese mangaka Taiyō Matsumoto. Matsumoto is celebrated for his dynamic storytelling and intricate character development, often drawing on historical themes in his work. His version offers a distinctly Japanese interpretation of the same events, reflecting cultural nuances and historical context from a local viewpoint. The dual-sided format of "Nanbanjin" is a bold and innovative approach to storytelling, allowing readers to compare and contrast two different cultural perspectives on a shared historical moment. By presenting the story through both Western and Japanese lenses, the book encourages a deeper understanding of the complex interactions between East and West during the Age of Exploration.