Crafting Manga: A Review of ‘Manga in Theory and Practice’ by Hirohiko Araki

Learn from the creator of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure with ‘Manga in Theory and Practice’ by Hirohiko Araki. This comprehensive guide goes beyond basic skills to help aspiring manga creators develop their craft and create exceptional works. Discover Araki’s insights on character development, drawing techniques, and the importance of understanding literary principles. Whether you’re a fan of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure or interested in various creative mediums, this book offers valuable advice for creating impactful and well-crafted manga.

Crafting Manga: A Review of ‘Manga in Theory and Practice’ by Hirohiko Araki

In the world of creative endeavors, mastering the craft is essential for creating impactful and successful works. While natural ability and imagination are important, understanding the techniques and principles of the craft is what sets apart exceptional creators. With the English translation of Hirohiko Araki’s ‘Manga in Theory and Practice,’ aspiring manga writers and artists now have the opportunity to learn from the creator of the renowned JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure series.

( Credit to: Animenewsnetwork )

‘Manga in Theory and Practice’ is not just a typical how-to book; it goes beyond teaching basic skills and delves into honing those skills to create exceptional manga. Araki’s approach is refreshing, as he emphasizes the importance of understanding and adapting to trends without blindly following them. This timeless advice ensures that creators can create unique and compelling works while still being aware of the industry’s changing landscape.

Although Araki’s focus is on shounen manga, his insights and advice can be applied to various creative writing and drawing endeavors. He acknowledges that good manga is a form of literature and encourages creators to follow the same principles as novelists or scriptwriters. Araki’s extensive knowledge of both literary and artistic works is evident in his recommendations to study the works of Akira Toriyama, Leonardo da Vinci, and Ernest Hemingway. This holistic approach makes ‘Manga in Theory and Practice’ a comprehensive and intelligent guide for aspiring creators.

Insights into the Creative Process of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure

From a fan’s perspective, ‘Manga in Theory and Practice’ offers a glimpse into the creative process behind JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure. Araki shares background details and insights into each story arc and character, providing a deeper appreciation for his work. Additionally, the book includes previously untranslated excerpts from his other works, such as ‘Poker Under Arms’ and ‘Thus Spoke Rohan Kishibe,’ further enriching the reading experience.

Applicable to Various Creative Mediums

Regardless of whether one is a fan of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, ‘Manga in Theory and Practice’ is a valuable resource for creators of various mediums. Its clear and practical advice can be applied to writing novels, short stories, games, and comics. Araki’s expertise and willingness to share his knowledge make this book a must-read for anyone seeking to create impactful and well-crafted works.

Please note that some of Araki’s advice may be more applicable to readers in Japan, as it is tailored to the specific manga industry in that country. However, the overall principles and techniques discussed in the book are universally relevant and beneficial to aspiring creators worldwide.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ‘Manga in Theory and Practice’ is an excellent craft manual that offers valuable insights and advice for creating exceptional manga. Hirohiko Araki’s expertise and passion for his craft shine through, making this book an informative and inspiring read for aspiring manga creators.