How to create your own Japanese-style comic strip:

1. Read Fred Schodt's essay What Are Manga?

2. Keep in mind some of the differences between American comic books and Japanese manga:

• Manga panels are ordered from right to left, in reverse order, on the page.
• Manga are usually black & white.
• Manga contain fewer words than American comics.
• Manga artists emphasize the emotions of characters, often through facial expression.
• Manga can be on any topic you can imagine.
• Manga use onamonapeia, or sound words.

3. Print the image below. Or, try your hand at sketching your own manga-style illustrations.

4. Fill in the word balloons with your own words, sounds and story line.

5. Enjoy your very own manga!