I'm heavily debating over reading manga again despite what I've read and seen...what should I do? : manga

[–] [email protected] 9 points 8 months ago (1 children)

Are you contemplating rereading something? Your post isn't very clear.

[–] [email protected] 1 points 8 months ago

I’m considering rereading Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure but I put down both Bleach and Sankarea: Undying Love because they both weirded me out in the span of years.

In Bleach, some characters are just way too aggressive like when Rukia and Renji caught up with Ichigo or when Iba attacked Ikkaku.

In Sankarea, the plot is okay at first but the trip to ZoMA goes south for our heroes until Rea starts sharing a shower with a minor named Darin.

[–] [email protected] 5 points 8 months ago (1 children)

I second the request for more details.

What was the issue that stopped you from reading?
Are you looking for recommendations or just reasons to give it another go?
Are you interested in something specific (theme, genre, art style)?

All in all, how can we help?

[+] [email protected] 2 points 8 months ago (1 children)

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[–] [email protected] 3 points 8 months ago* (last edited 8 months ago) (1 children)

A little vague and hard to approach. Manga, just like western comics/books/movies/etc is such a broad medium you'll always find something you won't like. It's pretty much a case of learning what to avoid.
Following from above, why? Because like in other types of media you can find some fantastic stories that might resonate with you. Or to engage with topics approached from a different cultural point of view. Or maybe just to enjoy the art. There are many reasons people love manga (and yes, stupid and/or fetishistic series are what some people look for).
I'd be lying if I said I'm knowledgeable enough to suggest some older classics. I'll leave this one to the veterans.

Now onto suggestions...

I'm not familiar with Hoopla but here are two series found from a quick glance:

A Silent Voice - story about bullying, repentance and healing. Can be pretty rough.
Blame! - is a sci-fi series consisting of a lot of wordless walking through a deserted mega structure punctured by occasional fight scene. I don't remember it being too edgy but it's been a while since I touched it.

If you're willing to check elsewhere, whether it would be on Mangadex or official apps, I could also suggest:

Girls' Last Tour - a post post post apocalyptic story about two girls traveling through ruins of a dying world. It's a slower, contemplative series about existence and various mundane things humans don't think about.
Sousou no Frieren (Frieren at the Funeral) - one of the big ongoing series at the moment. A more... thoughtful (?) take on fantasy with focus on human relations. Limited action, big on joy of adventure and nostalgia.
The Girl From the Other Side: Siúil, a Rún - story about a young girl living with a wendigo-like caretaker. Pretty unique art style.

I think these should be relatively safe to try out.

Edit: I've seen you mention being a christian and disliking some themes because of that. Is there anything specific you'd like to avoid?

[+] [email protected] 1 points 8 months ago (1 children)

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[–] [email protected] 2 points 8 months ago (1 children)

OK, in that case I don't think stuff from my post will be a problem - especially considering titles you mentioned (thanks for that btw, I'll have more things to check out myself).

I forgot to ask but what phone system are we talking about? I use Mihon with this extension file (basically, content sources), but it's Android only.

Most of the things I read aren't licensed in English but the official apps I know about are:

Manga Plus
Viz
Shonen Jump (already mentioned)

Can't say too much about them unfortunately, as my main combo consists of Mihon + physical copies.

[–] [email protected] 2 points 8 months ago (1 children)

I’m iOS.

[–] [email protected] 1 points 8 months ago (1 children)

I've seen a question about iOS apps some time ago and if I remember correctly there's no great choice beyond the official apps. The poster asking last time ended up using Mangadex website as PWA ("installing" site as an app from the browser menu). Depending on where you are this could be an option, though I think Apple decided to screw with that functionality in EU recently.

[–] [email protected] 2 points 8 months ago (1 children)

I’m actually in the USA, but I prefer to read and support the creators myself, or the library and/or bookstore in my opinion.

Are you referring to just manga websites where you read manga on your computer instead?

[–] [email protected] 1 points 8 months ago

For licensed series, physical copies or official app will obviously be the most fair option to support the authors and I absolutely I agree it should be used when possible.

Otherwise, websites yes - specifically Mangadex since it's the most popular website of this kind. I suggested the PWA route (i.e. using "add to home screen" option in mobile browser) since that can be a simpler or preferred solution for some.

[–] [email protected] 4 points 8 months ago (1 children)

As a general rule I just try to work out if an activity adds more to my life than it takes away when deciding how to spend my time. Is there something you'd rather be doing? Is reading manga affecting your mental state?

If only some manga makes you feel bad, consider asking for recommendations and if something bothers you just stop. If you feel bad because of social pressure or something, another general rule for me is as long as you aren't hurting yourself or others then do what makes you happy. In the interest of free speech, others can state their opinion if they want and piss off if they become bullies about it.

[+] [email protected] -1 points 8 months ago (1 children)

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[–] [email protected] 5 points 8 months ago (1 children)

Why would you start reading something called Zombie Land Saga where the main character becomes a zombie almost instantly if you weren't into zombification? You had plenty of warning signs.

And why did you lump transgenderism in with minors? They aren't remotely similar, and it's worrying you seem to think they are.

[–] [email protected] 4 points 8 months ago (1 children)

Manga is a broad medium. I would either scroll around and see what you like and drop it if it's not good or ask for suggestions with some aspects you want. There's lots of trash but when you find some good ones, it's a great feeling.

[–] [email protected] 1 points 8 months ago

Agreed, thanks.