The manga industry can be competitive and challenging, with creators facing pressure that can impact their mental health and wellbeing. Fans can gain a deeper appreciation for their favorite manga by understanding the behind-the-scenes work and struggles of the creators. Some manga titles offer a humorous or critical look at the industry, shedding light on the formalities and difficulties faced by mangaka in their creative process.

While it’s easy for fans of manga to get lost in their favorite titles or spend hours wondering about a plot point, a surprise villain, or a character’s death – it’s equally easy to forget that there are real live people behind the manga they’re reading or discussing. Those people – the author, artist, editor, publisher – might have incredible abilities at storytelling, art, or logistics, but they are ultimately not much different than the fans themselves. Indeed, while they may create the...