Greetings, fellow Kiwis! Are you eager to dive into the vibrant world of manga but don't know where to start? No worries – we've got you covered. From the gripping action of Shonen to the touching narratives of Shojo, there's a manga genre that will resonate with everyone. Let's explore the best manga series to start with, their genres, and some of their most popular characters.
What's the Best Manga?
Choosing the 'best' manga is as tricky as picking the best book or movie – it's largely subjective and dependent on personal preference. However, for beginners, certain series stand out for their compelling storytelling, breathtaking artwork, and universal appeal. Here are our top picks:
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One Piece: If you're into pirates and high-stakes adventures, then One Piece is for you. Eiichiro Oda's masterpiece takes you on a thrilling journey with Monkey D. Luffy, a young pirate dreaming of becoming the Pirate King. One Piece is a perfect blend of action, comedy, and drama.
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Naruto: Naruto, created by Masashi Kishimoto, is a tale of perseverance, friendship, and self-discovery. The series follows Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja with a dream to become the Hokage (leader) of his village.
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Death Note: For fans of psychological thrillers, Death Note is an excellent choice. This series by Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata is a mind-bending game of cat and mouse between a high school student with a deadly notebook and a genius detective.
What Genres of Manga Are There?
Manga is not a genre, but a medium, offering a wide range of genres to suit different tastes. Here are some of the most popular:
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Shonen: This genre is targeted towards young boys and often includes action, adventure, and coming-of-age themes. Popular series include One Piece, Naruto, and Dragon Ball.
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Shojo: Shojo manga is aimed at young girls and usually features romance and relationships. Series like Fruits Basket and Cardcaptor Sakura are prime examples.
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Seinen: Seinen manga is designed for adult men, with more complex plots and often darker themes. Berserk and Monster are notable seinen series.
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Josei: Josei targets adult women, focusing on realistic romantic relationships and slice-of-life narratives. Some of the best include Nodame Cantabile and Paradise Kiss.
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Kodomo: This genre is for young children, with easy-to-understand narratives and bright artwork. Doraemon is a classic example.
Who Are Some of the Most Popular Characters?
Manga is known for its diverse and complex characters, from heroes and heroines to villains and sidekicks. Here are some of the most popular:
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Monkey D. Luffy (One Piece): The rubber-bodied captain of the Straw Hat Pirates is loved for his indomitable spirit, endless optimism, and insatiable love for meat.
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Naruto Uzumaki (Naruto): Naruto is famous for his unwavering perseverance, can-do attitude, and infectious energy. His journey from an outcast to a leader is both inspiring and moving.
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Light Yagami (Death Note): Light Yagami, the protagonist turned antagonist, is a genius high school student who stumbles upon a notebook with deadly powers. His descent into moral ambiguity makes him a fascinating character.
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Son Goku (Dragon Ball): Goku is a cheerful, energetic, and highly skilled martial artist with a heart of gold. His Saiyan heritage and love for battle make him one of manga's most powerful characters.
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Tohru Honda (Fruits Basket): Tohru is a selfless high school student who gets entangled with the Sohma family, who are cursed to transform into animals of the Chinese Zodiac. Her kindness, resilience, and love have made her a beloved character among fans.
Wrapping Up
There's a vast ocean of manga out there waiting for you to dive in. Whether you're into action-packed adventures, psychological thrillers, or heart-warming romances, there's a manga series that's just right for you. So why wait? Start your manga journey today, and immerse yourself in these captivating stories. Remember, the best manga is the one that resonates with you the most.
Happy reading, New Zealand!
Do you have other favourite manga or popular characters that you would recommend to beginners? Share your thoughts in the comments below!