What is Manga?

Manga is an art form whose origins stretch back to 12th century Japan.  Manga literally means "humorous picture".  Today it has come to describe a style of black and white, interconnected panels, that tell a complete story.  They are much like graphic novels, but have several distinct features that separate them.  First, Manga is read from back to front and from right to left.  Most manga companies will print a warning in the "back" of the volume to indicate that a reader should start from the other side.  Like graphic novels, manga is a format that covers a range of genres. 

How to read traditional Manga:

A Word of Caution:

Manga grows in complexity and maturity with its audience.  Lower volumes of a series may be acceptable to put in your

collection because they meet BCPS selection criteria.  However, as the volumes increase there may be increased sexual

innuendo, sexual situations, adult language, and violence.   Pay attention to the ratings in Follette.  If it's rated AD, it's

not a good idea even for a high school collection.  Consider yourselves warned.

Watch out!