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Tokyopop has released a new series of manga under the title Passion Fruit. They describe it as "an innovative, edgy line of manga which reflects the emotional condition of humanity in its moment of creation and procreation." Each book is dedicated to one mangaka's series of short stories.

The only book I've read so far is Mari Okazaki's Sweat & Honey. I will tell you that is absolutely amazing. Not only are the stories complex but they explore some of the important facets of youth, womanhood and even lesbianism. Some of it is very sub-text and might even be considered comradery by some but I think some of the women/girls in this story have a more romantic bond with each other then they will realize. I see this for the first story and third story especially.

Let's not forget that the art is absolutely amazing. Mari Okazaki has a beautiful artist style and I am in awe of her skills. She draws scenes for a mature audience–there is nudity and non-graphic sex depicted here. Both heterosexual and some homosexual. She does it so well too, beautiful and tasteful. I am in love.

Has anyone else read it?

I haven't heard of it either but it sounds interesting. It's hard these days to find modern stories portraying these aspects so that alone intrigues me. That's not to say there aren't but in general there are few. Plus, I find that short stories capture this certain flavour best, so there's that as well. I'll check it out the next time I go to the bookstore.