Starting your manga journey can seem daunting with so many genres and series to choose from, but it doesn’t have to be complicated.
How to start reading manga begins with understanding the basics: selecting the right genre, getting familiar with the unique reading format, and knowing where to access your favorite titles.
Manga offers a wide array of storytelling styles, from action-packed adventures to deep emotional drama, making it accessible for any reader.
Whether you’re drawn to epic fantasy, romance, or psychological thrillers, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to dive into manga with confidence. Ready to begin? Let’s explore the essential steps to start reading manga today.
What is Manga?
Manga is a form of entertainment originating from Japan that combines art and storytelling into a visual format.
It covers a wide range of genres and age groups, from lighthearted shonen (aimed at young males) to complex seinen (for adult men) and heartwarming shojo (for young females).
Manga is typically serialized in weekly or monthly magazines and then compiled into volumes for easier reading.
Unlike Western comic books, manga is not just a genre of storytelling but a medium that embraces a broad range of narratives, themes, and artistic styles.
The Basics of Manga
How Manga is Different from Western Comics
While both manga and Western comics are graphic novels that use visuals to tell stories, there are several distinct differences:
| Aspect | Manga | Western Comics |
|---|---|---|
| Reading Direction | From right to left | Left to right |
| Art Style | Simple yet expressive, highly stylized | More detailed or realistic |
| Format | Usually black and white | Often colored |
| Serialization | Often serialized in magazines first | Usually published as a full comic book |
| Genres | Wide variety of genres (Shonen, Shojo, Seinen, etc.) | Primarily superhero or fantasy genres |
Manga Genres You Should Know
Manga covers a broad spectrum of genres, making it easy for everyone to find something that interests them. Here are some of the most popular genres you’ll encounter:
- Shonen: Manga aimed at younger male readers (usually between the ages of 12 and 18). These stories often focus on action, friendship, and adventure. Examples include Naruto, One Piece, and Dragon Ball.
- Shojo: Manga aimed at younger female readers, typically involving romance, drama, and personal growth. Popular examples are Sailor Moon and Fruits Basket.
- Seinen: Aimed at adult men (18+), this genre covers a range of topics, including more mature themes such as psychological horror, politics, and more complex relationships. Examples include Berserk and Tokyo Ghoul.
- Josei: Aimed at adult women, these mangas are more mature and explore themes like romance, family life, and personal growth. Examples include Nana and Paradise Kiss.
- Kodomomuke: Manga for children, typically featuring simple, entertaining stories that are both educational and fun. Doraemon is a well-known example.
Manga Art Styles
The art in manga is distinctive and varies depending on the genre and artist. The visual elements in manga play a crucial role in storytelling, often helping to convey emotions and actions. Here are some common styles:
- Shonen Art: Typically, bold, with exaggerated expressions to emphasize excitement and action.
- Shojo Art: More delicate and softer, focusing on emotional moments with elaborate detailing in the eyes and backgrounds.
- Seinen Art: Often darker and more realistic, reflecting the mature themes of the stories.
- Chibi Style: A cute, exaggerated art style often used for comedic moments, where characters are drawn with oversized heads and small bodies.
ALSO READ: One Punch Man Manga: A Unique Blend of Humor, Action, and Satire
How to Start Reading Manga: Step-by-Step Guide?
Now that you understand the basics, let’s break down the process of getting started with manga.
Step 1: Choose the Right Manga
To begin, it’s important to pick a manga that aligns with your personal interests. Consider the genre and themes that appeal to you.
If you enjoy fantasy and adventure, start with a shonen manga like Naruto or One Piece. If you’re more into romance and slice-of-life, you might enjoy a shojo manga like Ouran High School Host Club or Skip Beat.
Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:
| Genre | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Action | Attack on Titan, Dragon Ball Z |
| Romance | Lovely★Complex, Your Lie in April |
| Mystery | Death Note, Monster |
| Fantasy | Fullmetal Alchemist, Hunter x Hunter |
| Comedy | One Punch Man, K-On! |
| Horror | Tokyo Ghoul, Junji Ito’s Uzumaki |
Step 2: Understand Manga Format
Manga is usually printed in black and white, with the focus placed on artwork rather than vibrant colors.
However, this lack of color doesn’t take away from the depth or impact of the story. In fact, the use of black and white allows artists to focus more on character expressions, backgrounds, and other visual details that bring the story to life.
Step 3: Know the Reading Direction
One of the unique aspects of reading manga is that it’s read from right to left—opposite to Western books and comics.
This includes both the page layout and the direction of the speech bubbles. It may feel strange at first, but after a few pages, it becomes second nature.
Step 4: Getting the Right Tools to Read Manga
While you can always pick up physical copies from bookstores, there are numerous online platforms and apps where you can read manga digitally. Some popular options include:
- Shonen Jump (for Shonen manga)
- Crunchyroll Manga (great for both Shonen and Shojo)
- ComiXology (offers a wide range of manga)
- Manga Plus (official source for popular manga like One Piece and Demon Slayer)
If you prefer physical copies, check your local bookstore or library for manga collections.
Popular Manga to Start With
Here’s a selection of widely popular manga to consider when you’re starting your reading journey. These titles are beginner-friendly and offer captivating stories with universal themes.
| Manga Title | Genre | Why Start With It |
|---|---|---|
| Naruto | Shonen | Great for action and adventure with memorable characters. |
| My Hero Academia | Shonen | Offers a fresh take on superhero genres with depth and humor. |
| One Piece | Shonen | A legendary series known for its epic storytelling and world-building. |
| Death Note | Mystery/Thriller | Intellectually engaging and perfect for fans of psychological dramas. |
| Your Name | Romance | A beautifully told love story with stunning artwork. |
ALSO READ: Academy Genius Swordsman Manga Chapter 10: A Thrilling Dive into Action and Mystery
Understanding Manga Terms
As you immerse yourself in manga, you may come across specific terminology unique to this medium. Understanding these terms will enhance your reading experience:
- Tankobon: A collected volume of manga chapters, typically around 200 pages.
- Filler: Non-canon episodes or chapters that aren’t part of the main storyline, often added to extend a series.
- Bishounen: A term used for a character (usually male) who is extraordinarily beautiful or attractive.
- Otaku: A term for people who are deeply passionate about anime and manga.
Where to Read Manga
Online Platforms
- Shonen Jump: An official source for reading series like Naruto and Demon Slayer. Offers a free trial and paid subscriptions for access to a vast library.
- Manga Plus: Free access to the latest chapters from popular series, updated weekly.
- ComiXology: A digital platform that offers a range of manga, including Western comics.
Physical Manga Stores
While digital platforms are convenient, there’s something special about owning a physical manga collection.
Visit your local bookstores or specialty manga stores to find the latest volumes or older, classic collections.
Websites like Amazon and Book Depository also offer a wide variety of manga for purchase.
Tips for Manga Beginners
- Don’t Overwhelm Yourself: Start with one or two series instead of trying to read everything at once.
- Use Bookmarking: Many online platforms let you bookmark your reading progress. Don’t forget to use this feature to avoid getting lost in long series.
- Join Communities: Online communities like Reddit, Discord, and fan sites can provide great recommendations and discussions.
- Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try different genres. You might be surprised at what you enjoy.
ALSO READ: Childhood Friend Complex Manga: A Journey Through Nostalgia and Love
Conclusion
Manga offers a rich and diverse world of storytelling, where there is something for everyone.
Whether you’re into high-octane action, heartwarming romance, or gripping mystery, manga has a wealth of content that can provide hours of enjoyment.
By following this guide, you can begin your manga journey with confidence and find the perfect series to immerse yourself in. Happy reading!
