Manga Mania: Romance: Drawing Shojo Girls and Bishie Boys

School Library Journal

Gr 6 Up

This crisply illustrated work aims to give aspiring cartoonists the basics of drawing as well as some of the trademark stylistic elements of the increasingly popular shojo style of romance manga. This work starts off with the basics of figure drawing, character design, and facial expressions for both female and male characters; special care is given to explain the details of creating those luminous eyes so popular in Japanese comics. Movement and perspective are given a brief explanation, and the chibi style of humorous facial expression is explained as well. Basics on creating costuming for characters (especially the famous schoolgirl uniform) are included; tips are also given for creating the popular "magical girl" characters à la Sailor Moon. The bishies of the title certainly aren't forgotten, and care is given to explain and depict some of the most common male characters. Advice on creating romantic and humorous scenarios, staging, and more essential elements of cartooning round off the work, along with a useful list of popular Japanese male and female names and some basic Japanese written characters commonly used in sound effects. Although not for advanced artists, this is nonetheless a wonderful introduction to the shojo style. A great first choice for creating a cartooning/drawing collection.-Dave Inabnitt, Brooklyn Public Library, NY