Usagi Yojimbo DojoBoard

I really hope this question is not offensive, I'm just wondering what Dark Horse's sales expectaions are for creator owned series such as Usagi. I don't know much about indie books and how they are judged by way of sales in comparison to corporate Marvel/DC type stuff. I know Peter David's Fallen Angel (another favorite of mine) has been dropped and relaunched multiple times because of sales.

I guess I'm asking because I want this series to go on for as long as you plan on working on it. I picked up trades 3-12 today (expensive day), and with each one I fall more in love with this series. I think it should be considered essential in this medium. I know there is a strong devoted fanbase but it deserves to be read by everyone.

if this has already been asked and answered someone let me know

Comic book sales are really down all across the board. Usagi, however, makes most of its sales through the retail market, that is, the trade collections. There are, currently, 24 trades (I count Space Usagi, and I just got my copy of Bridge of Tears today), and they are always being reprinted.

The comics are important, in that the income from that keeps me afloat month to month. However, the trades are probably what really keeps Usagi going. One reason I have been courting the libraries, is that they buy a lot of trades.

That's great to know. Are you working on any other projects right now, or do you plan on working on any other creator owned titles? I'm really looking forward to Yokai. Your painted art sounds like it will be the most beautiful book on the stands.