Manga (MAHN-ga) is a Japanese word meaning “random or whimsical pictures.” Manga originally referred to graphic novels (book length comics) published in Japan, though it can also refer to a specific style of art and storytelling. Several U.S. publishers, such as Del Rey, Viz Media and Tokyopop, have developed their own manga lines.
Manga usually contain several episodes of a single storyline (tankoban), or single episodes of multiple series. These pocket-sized paperbacks read from right to left, in true Japanese fashion.
Everything Anime
Anime simply means animation, though it generally refers to a specific style that originated in Japan in 1914. The earliest anime were hand-drawn, but those images have been replaced by computer-generated ones as the industry developed into the 5-billion-dollar business it is today. Anime characters typically share the same features: large, expressive eyes, small mouths and child-like faces. You may recognize this distinct style in popular children’s programs like “Hamtaro,” “Naruto,” “Yu-Gi-Oh!” and others, but it’s also been used for feature films, like “Princess Mononoke” and “My Neighbor Totoro.”
Parents may be familiar with anime from series like “Speedracer,” recently revitalized as a film by the Wachowski Brothers, writers of the “Matrix” film series. Some anime programs, like Pokémon, have become an industry unto themselves. Originally a Nintendo videogame, Pokémon spawned a wildly popular trading card game, an anime TV series and big-screen movies, manga, toys and more.
Both anime and manga typically feature complex storylines that continue through multiple episodes of a series. Genres include battle anime (martial arts and fighting), horror, science fiction, romance, supernatural and more.
Manga and anime are divvied up into categories based on age and gender. For example, shojo manga is written expressly for girls and can contain stories of young romance, fashion, female heroism, magic, responsibility, identity, crafts and cooking.
- Shojo - for girls
- Shonen - for boys
- Josei - for women
- Seinen - for men
- Kodomo - for children of both genders
Ready to jump in? Head to http://anime.about.com/od/animeprimer/Anime_Primer.htm for links, lists and articles about how to choose anime, popular programs and more. Check with your local library; many branches host monthly anime/manga clubs just for teens.
Buyer Beware
Before you grab that cool comic for your teen, you should know what you’re buying. Cutesy illustrations and packaging can be deceptive; much of the popular manga available today is written expressly for adults, and features grown-up themes and images of violence and sexuality. The same goes for anime movies, programs and videos. Just because it’s a cartoon, doesn’t mean it’s for kids.
Manga/Anime Websites for Tweens and Teens
- CrunchyRoll.com
- Hamtaro.com
- One-Manga.com
- RandomHouse.com/delrey/manga
- Shojobeat.com
- Tokyopop.com
- Viz.com
Future mangaka (manga artists) can create their own characters with Manga Clip Art: Everything You Need to Create Your Own Professional-Looking Manga Artwork by Hayden Scott-Baron (2006, Andrews McMeel Publishing).
Kirsten Flournoy is editor of San Diego Family Magazine.
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