The Benefits of Manga for Young Readers (and Adults!)

The idea that graphic novels are “too easy” because they tell stories in image format is a frequent one, but it’s not true at all! Graphic novels enable the reader to visually understand how panels function together as the visuals advance the story, as opposed to simply reading words on a page. Many of them present captivating stories with less words and more images, which makes them especially appealing to people who don’t enjoy reading text-heavy novels. Additional opportunities arise when manga is included in the mix. Manga really has a lot to offer both adult and young readers.

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Who is Manga for and what does it mean?

These are essentially illustrated stories from Japan that span a wide range of subjects. Like movies, they mostly rely on visual language, dialogue, and sound effects, which is why many of them are turned into anime (Japanese animated series and films). That being said, manga has a wide range of target audiences in addition to a vast range of issues. There are a ton of fantastic television shows available just for children, including Chi’s Sweet Home. It’s important to understand, though, that not all illustrations are intended for children. Manga is intended for older audiences, just like there are styled comics intended for adult audiences here in the West. According to the New York Public Library, a manga is not necessarily suitable for young readers just because it has adorable or innocent characters.

Managing the Debate Around Manga

In order to deal with the big issue at hand: Indeed, manga has generated considerable controversy in the West. Regretfully, manga is frequently criticized by people on both political sides of the debate. Such criticism stems from ignorance of what manga is and from a lack of fundamental study into the setting and target audience of a narrative. Granted, this is a skewed interpretation of a broader issue, but that’s a separate topic for another day. The key point, particularly for parents, is that you should evaluate each series on its own and choose what is appropriate for your child to read. There’s a great handbook available at the Canton Public Library to aid with that selection.

The Particular Advantages of Reading Manga

Let’s get back to the positives: a nationwide poll conducted in Japan revealed that a resounding majority of respondents thought that manga reading helped youngsters develop their sensitivity and expressiveness, among other skills. Manga stimulates the brain differently than traditional novels do. First-time manga readers are sometimes surprised to learn that the volumes are read “backwards.” Manga gives you a special challenge right away by teaching you a new way to read because people in Japan read from right to left rather than left to right as we do! Additionally, through multimodal learning, learning to understand words, pictures, and sound effects (onomatopoeia) simultaneously improves your ability to absorb the narrative and imagery. This can be especially helpful for those with autism spectrum disorder because of its focus on visual language and its restricted, repeating patterns. In addition, manga may present new concepts, cultures, and themes in a form that is simpler to understand than through text alone. Furthermore, it may make personal experiences that young readers—especially teens—may be going through easier for them to relate to and connect with. Manga is thrilling and interesting for people of all ages, which is, in my humble view, the best advantage of all!

How to Begin

It might be difficult to decide where to begin with so many intriguing programs available. Although there are some excellent suggestions in the articles that are linked above, you can always ask your friendly neighborhood library right here! Alternatively, perhaps we could pick your brain and learn something new together. Do you have a favorite manga series that you can’t seem to locate at the library? Make a purchase request to us! Or, as an alternative, apply for an Interlibrary Loan! No matter your age, it’s never too late to start reading manga. Everyone can find something enjoyable, so why not give it a shot? Your brain will be appreciative!