What's Happening?
Brandon Lee, known by his pen name TurtleMe, has achieved significant success with his fantasy series 'The Beginning After the End' (TBATE). Initially started as a web novel, the series has expanded into
a graphic novel format, with the tenth volume set to release in February 2026. The series has garnered over 60 million views on webtoon platforms, resonating with a global audience due to its blend of Eastern and Western storytelling elements. TurtleMe attributes the series' success to its universal themes of growth and family, as well as its serialized format, which fosters community engagement.
Why It's Important?
The success of TBATE underscores the growing popularity and influence of web novels and webtoons in the global literary market. This format allows for real-time interaction between authors and readers, creating a community-driven experience that traditional publishing often lacks. The series' ability to bridge cultural storytelling styles highlights the potential for cross-cultural narratives to reach diverse audiences. TurtleMe's journey from a finance worker to a successful author also illustrates the viability of non-traditional career paths in the creative industry, encouraging aspiring writers to pursue their passions.
