Summary
The manga industry is bigger than ever, which is why books likeThe Essential Manga Guideare becoming increasingly relevant. Withthe best-selling manga reaching well over 100 million sales, new fans are likely curious about which series they should check out. However, differing cultural norms, a vast array of series to choose from, and the sheer length of some series can all be barriers to entry for anyone wondering where to start. Luckily,The Essential Manga Guidebreaks down 50 of the most popular manga of all time to let fans know what manga will be worth their time.
Published by Running Press, written by Briana Lawrence, and illustrated by Ebipo,The Essential Manga Guidebreaks down 50 popular manga series, analyzing their appeal and their historical relevance. In addition to discussing the 50 manga, the book goes over the history of the medium and how it arrived in the United States.
The meaty tome will be released on June 11th and is currently available for pre-order fromHatchett Book Groupfor $24.99 USD.
The Essential Manga Guide is an Exuberant Tribute to the Growing Medium
Lawrence’s Enthusiastic Prose and Ebipo’s Great Art Make the Book a True Treasure
The first thing that stands out aboutThe Essential Manga Guideis the expressive prose by Briana Lawrence. Lawrence’s deep respect for the medium shines through on every single page. It’s infectious in a way, making every series sound just as deep or epic as the next. The 50 manga chosen also speak to Lawrence’s deep well of knowledge as series deserving of more attention are highlighted right alongside titans likeDragon BallandOne Piece.The Essential Manga Guidealso comes with several useful pieces of information including fun facts and recommendations for manga not covered in the book.
2024’s Best-Selling Manga Show How Effective A Good Anime Can Be
Sales reports for the best-selling manga of the first half of 2024 have been revealed, and some of them show just how valuable a good anime can be.
In addition to Briana Lawrence’s engaging writing,The Essential Manga Guidealso draws readers in with illustrations by Ebipo. Ebipo is a manga artist who does a fantastic job emulating a wide variety of styles. Just on the cover alone there appear to be references toKamisama Kiss,Delicious in Dungeon, andKuroko’s Basketball. Ebipo’s art in the actual book is equally as energetic, always supporting Lawrence’s writing in a way that makes the book feel quite cohesive.
Manga is an Art Form Deserving of the Kind of Respect & Analysis Shown by The Essential Manga Guide
It is easy to assume that manga is just a lesser form of anime, but that ignores the fact that there aremany manga better than their anime adaptations. Manga is a unique medium with its own strengths. WithThe Essential Manga, Lawrence proves why manga is a legitimate art form worthy of respect and analysis. Filled with insight,The Essential Manga Guidelives up to its name and will be a welcome addition to any manga fan’s library.
Look for Running Press’The Essential Manga Guidewhen it releases on June 11th!
