I read a lot of comics, it’s almost obscene. I can remember reading them as a kid, rushing to newsagent looking for the latest issue of whatever I was reading at the time. I read all genres that perk my interest: Superhero, romance, action, indie.
Manga is a form of comic common in Japan. It covers a broad range of genres, but there are specific demographic markets that appeal to women 20 – 30 (Josei), girls 10 – 18 (Shoujo) , men 17 – 40 (Seinen) and boys 10 – 17 (Shonen). Of course this is just a generalisation, josei might appeal to young boys or shonen to women, etc
Of course I have multiple favourite manga authors but one that really has my attention at the moment is Kakukaku Shikajika by Akiko Higashimura. Currently 16 chapters have been unofficially translated.
Unfortunately this manga isn’t officially translated yet, I hope one day it is along with Kuraghime. The story of Kakukaku Shikajika is one, I can relate to and would be incredibly personal to Akiko Higashimura. She illustrates her hopes and dreams as a highschool student to draw manga full time, like most people though she’s a bit delusion on how to get to her goal. Until meeting a teacher who encourages her to draw everyday to gain entry into an arts college.
Kakukaku Shikajika is a fantastic manga to read if you ever felt some sort of loss or uneasiness in your life. It asks the question what happens after you’ve achieved your goal? What happens once you find yourself at a long loss (one that can last for years). Do you march on or lose faith in your ability to do anything? I think everyone has gone through a period like this in their life.