Interesting facts about Manga

• Manga means “whimsical pictures” in Japanese

• Tezuka Osman is the most famous manga artist in Japan

• Manga is read from right to left

• Anime (Japanese animated films) are often inspired by manga

• All manga were drawn by hand

• Manga series are divided into arcs, which equate to different volumes.

• Exclusive Books has a growing collection of manga, but prices are crazy.

• Head to Readers Den, shop G10, Stadium on Main in Claremont or call (021 671-9551). Prices are still steep, but not unreasonable.

With their unique drawings and creative plots, manga — or Japanese comics — have taken the world by storm. LIVE reviews four of our favourite series.

Bleach

Written & illustrated by: Tite Kubo /Arcs: 59/ Original run: 2001-ongoing. Rating: 4

This manga follows the story of Ichigo Kurosaki, who gets the powers of a soul reaper. With his new found powers, Ichigo defends humans from evil spirits and guides deceased souls to the afterlife. Though the first chapters drag, the great artistic style makes up for it, with artistic details added to the characters along the way, making their appearances change in amazing ways.

Naruto

Written & illustrated by: Masahi Kishimoto/ Arcs: 64/ Original run: 1999-ongoing. Rating: 5

Naruto follows the story of boy ninja Naruto Uzuamki, whose rough childhood makes him constantly need to prove himself. Each character’s personality is depicted super realistically by Kishimoto’s great illustrations of facial expressions, and by their compelling emotional back stories. A fun, action-driven ninja series.

Aries

Written & illustrated by: Fuyuki Rurika /Arcs: 18 / Original run: 2012-ongoing. Rating:3

Aries is a modern adaptation of the Greek tale about the love between Hades (god of the underworld) and Persephone (daughter of Demeter). Aries’ style is straightforward – almost plain – yet visually appealing. The narrative is a clichéd love drama, but it is a great manga to start with if you like the romance genre.

Fairy Tail

Written &illustrated by: Hiro Mashima /Arcs: 38/ Original run: 2006-ongoing. Rating: 4

This series centres around the Fairy Tail guild: a club for humans with magical powers. Members go on various adventures to complete missions like killing monsters or fighting dark guilds for money. Great characters include Happy the Cat (comically lovable and poking fun of everyone), and Erza, a strong female warrior who changes armor mid-battle. Clear illustrations make this manga easy to follow.