INSTANT NOODLES AND BEYOND

This fun and unique cookbook–meets–graphic novel is a love-letter to instant noodles and their infinite versatility as a starting point for a satisfying, nutrient-packed meal. Filled with Robin Ha’s playful and colorful illustrations and imaginative instant flavor combinations, Instant Noodles and Beyond easily elevates your bowl or cup of noodles with easy-to-follow, detailed, visual recipes that leave no room for cooking confusion, plus amusing anecdotes and comic strip–style essays. Explore the world of instant noodles, from Japanese ramen and Korean ramyeon, to Southeast Asian noodles and Mac & Cheese, plus recipes to make instant noodle besties, like kimchi, pickled radish, chili oil, and a marinated egg. Robin shares her favorite flavor combinations, transforming packets into a kimchi jjigae, carbonara, pozole, shrimp alfredo, mapo tofu, okonomiyaki, a sheetpan dinner, or even a carrot or kale salad—and thinks completely outside the bowl, with instant noodle French fries, rice crispy treats, and even Chex mix. Perfect for a busy or lazy night, beginner or ambitious cooks, and especially lovers of instant noodles, this unique cookbook is sure to become a staple in your kitchen as much as instant noodles are.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs