A quick overview of manga andanime history and their impact. Divided into five chapters, thisappealing read is ideal for anyone who identifies as an otaku, orfan of Japanese culture, especially anime and manga, as well asthose interested in Japanese art and culture more generally. The book covers manga’s earliest origins in traditional scrolls created by Buddhist monks; the hallmarks of its distinctive style,which is influenced by Noh theater; the postwar rise of animeand manga in Japan; their growth in popularity in the U.S.; andthe explosion of fandom communities. Along the way, readerslearn about the ways these art forms depict Japanese values, howthey are intrinsically connected with history (even being used asanti-Western propaganda during World War II), how anime differs from Western animation, and more. The exploration of theintense, tightknit communities that engage in cosplay and writefan fiction shows how anime and manga are more than fads andare based on “something enduring” and possess “deep roots inJapanese culture, universal characters and themes, and…storiesof human love, strength, and survival.” This fun read featuresconcise chapters that contribute to a quick pace as it movesseamlessly from one major topic or event to the next. Stockphotos and movie stills break up and enhance the text; sidebarsinclude quotes from film critics, artists, and others. Informative and entertaining. (source notes, furtherresearch, index, picture credits) ( Nonfiction. 1218)