This exciting 2nd annual edition of Sparring Artists: Anthology of Sparring With Beatnik Ghosts packs a punch with 150 amazing contributors in a 302-page illuminated volume. This year's double issue was co-edited by S.A. Griffin and Richard Modiano who together assembled an incredible ensemble of "Mystic Boxers" ranging from some of the most magnificent poets, storytellers, reviewers, photographers and artists alive today, as well as those still with us in spirit. Sparring Artists was also designed by hands-on, Mystic Boxing Commission Publisher Daniel Yaryan. It is a spinoff of the popular Sparring With Beatnik Ghosts performance series Yaryan founded in 2008, which he likens to "a literary seance in a mystic boxing ring, with energy exchanged in order to acknowledge the past and be mindful of our fight for the future," says Yaryan. "The Ghosts symbolize our trainers and their inspiring legacies, materializing when needed in our physical world as our gurus, idols and instigators to propel us forward. These ghosts of bygone days give us a few jabs to remind us not to rest on our laurels. Artists must continue to fight to be heard using our own fresh new ideas, sounds and visions -- while reflecting on those who got us in the ring in the first place."

New features in this installment of Sparring Artists include "Sparring Comix" to kick off the book, just as animated cartoons once kicked off films in our movie palaces of yesteryear. Speaking of which, Sparring Artists now includes film reviews in a new section called "Kino Truth." Book reviews are also a new offering this time around. As before, you'll discover enthralling, startling and amazing artists, such as the cover artist Mike Street; plus, the caliber of poetry and storytelling you've come to expect from Sparring. Read on and explore further uncharted territory for your reading pleasure and enlightenment. Keep Sparring!