Critical Survey of Graphic Novels: Manga

Critical Survey of Graphic Novels: Manga, provides in-depth insight for over 55 of the most popular manga graphic novels, ranging from metaseries to stand-alone books.

A "first" in the field, this brand new Critical Survey series focuses on all aspects of the graphic novels format, aiming to establish it as an important academic discipline and research topic in libraries. Designed for academic institutions, high schools, and public libraries, the series provides unique insight into the stories and themes expressed in historic and current landscape of the graphic novel medium.

The third set in this series, Critical Survey of Graphic Novels: Manga, provides in-depth insight for over 55 of the most popular and studied manga graphic novels, ranging from metaseries to stand-alone books. A recent influx of translated Japanese manga into the American market has sparked a greater interest in foreign-language traditions and long-form comics storytelling. This single-volume subset focuses on translated works that have been particularly influential in the development of the manga tradition.

Often defined by characteristics such as stylized line work, cultural-specific narratives and compelling storytelling that often stand in contrast to the character-centric framework of American comics, manga nonetheless encompasses a broad range of genres and subgenres. Researchers will gain a better understanding of the latter, which, in the manga tradition, is represented by a wide spectrum that includes josei manga, which targets a mature female audience; shoujo-ai manga, which focuses on the spiritual, sexual, or emotional aspects of relationships; shonen-ai, manga created by female authors that focuses on homoerotic or homoromantic male relationships; and kodomo manga, created exclusively for a young audience.

Each essay, presented in critical format by leading writers in the field of study, will look beyond the archetypal and consumerist aspects of the medium to show the wide range of literary themes and dynamic artistic styles inherent in the manga format.