What is Manga? How to read Manga? All your questions asnwered!
Manga, the captivating world of Japanese comics, has gained a global fanbase for its diverse genres, engaging storytelling, and vibrant art. This beginner’s guide aims to provide you with a comprehensive overview to help you figure out how to read manga comics.
Understanding Manga: The History
The post-war era witnessed Osamu Tezuka, hailed as the “God of Manga,” revolutionising the industry with titles like Astro Boy, introducing cinematic storytelling techniques.
The 1960s and 70s saw the emergence of influential artists like Shotaro Ishinomori and Go Nagai, shaping manga’s diverse genres.
The 1980s witnessed the rise of Katsuhiro Otomo’s Akira, setting a new standard for epic storytelling.
Today, manga’s global influence is evident, with creators like Rumiko Takahashi, CLAMP, and Naoko Takeuchi leaving an indelible mark on the medium, showcasing its enduring and dynamic evolution.
More than just comics
Manga isn’t just a form of entertainment; it’s a cultural phenomenon that offers a unique storytelling experience. With its rich storytelling, captivating art, and diverse range of genres, manga offers an immersive experience that transcends cultural boundaries.
While comics in the West are often associated with superheroes, manga encompasses a vast array of genres. From the action-packed sci-fi series Attack on Titan by Hajime Isayama to the emotional rollercoaster of Your Lie in April by Naoshi Arakawa, there’s a manga for every taste. Don’t be afraid to explore various genres to find what resonates with you.
How to read manga comics? Unlike Western comics, manga is read from right to left – you start in the top right-hand corner, and you end in the bottom left-hand corner. This can be initially confusing for newcomers, but the unconventional reading style becomes second nature with a little practice.
What also sets manga apart is its distinctive art style. The artwork often features exaggerated facial expressions, vibrant illustrations, and intricate details. The iconic Dragon Ball series by Akira Toriyama boasts dynamic, action-packed scenes, while the ethereal beauty of CLAMP’s Cardcaptor Sakura showcases the versatility of manga artistry.
Types of Manga
The richness of manga lies in its ability to traverse genres, offering something for every reader, whether they seek action, romance, fantasy, or thought-provoking narratives. Manga comics are categorised by their audience primarily, and only then by the genre.
Shonen manga (For tween and teen boys):
Often features action-packed narratives and coming-of-age themes.
Shojo manga (For tween and teen girls):
Explores themes of romance, relationships, and personal growth, with doses of drama and emotion. The covers are distinctively cutesy.
Seinen manga (For 18+ men):
Addresses mature themes, and often delves into complex and darker storylines and intricate character development. It has doses of graphic violence and language suitable for the older audience.
Josei manga (For 18+ women):
Narrates stories about romantic and personal relationships in greater depth. Features realistic and mature themes such as romance, work-life balance, and societal expectations.
Kodomomuke manga (For children):
Features simple storylines with loads of cute and colourful characters.
While these categorisations are based on the age and gender of the readers, it does not mean that an adult woman, for example, cannot read seinen or shojo comics. It all boils down to your taste and preferences.
Delving into the World of Mangaka
Mangaka, the artists and authors behind manga, play a crucial role in shaping the industry. Learning about notable mangaka can deepen your appreciation for the medium. Osamu Tezuka, often hailed as the “God of Manga,” revolutionised the art form with works like Astro Boy. Contemporary mangaka like Hajime Isayama, creator of Attack on Titan, continue to push the boundaries of storytelling.
Building Your Manga Collection
Building a manga collection can be exciting. Many manga series are available in both physical and digital formats. Local bookstores, online retailers like Bookscape, and dedicated manga shops offer a wide selection.
Consider starting with classics like Akira by Katsuhiro Otomo, Sailor Moon by Naoko Takeuchi, or Berserk by Kentaro Miura, and let your collection grow organically from there.
Whatever your age, taste and mood, there’s a manga waiting for you. Explore Bookscape’s exhaustive Manga collection, grab a volume, start reading!
