10+ Best Anime Books for 11-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect anime books for 11-year-olds? Whether your kids are seasoned manga fans or new to the world of anime, finding age-appropriate and engaging books can be a bit of a challenge. But don't worry, we've got you covered! In this blog, we’ll dive into a variety of captivating anime books that are just right for 11-year-old readers. Keep reading to discover our top picks that are sure to entertain and inspire!

Fun Anime Books for 11-Year-Olds

• My Hero Academia by Kohei Horikoshi
  • Genre(s): Superhero, Adventure, Manga
  • Synopsis: In a world where almost everyone has superpowers, Izuku Midoriya dreams of becoming a hero despite being born without a "Quirk." After meeting his idol, All Might, Izuku's life changes forever as he gains powers and enrolls in the prestigious U.A. High School.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's packed with action and inspirational themes about hard work and perseverance. It encourages readers to pursue their dreams regardless of obstacles.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love superheroes and stories about overcoming challenges.

• Pokémon Adventures by Hidenori Kusaka, illustrated by Mato and Satoshi Yamamoto
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Manga
  • Synopsis: This series follows the adventures of various trainers as they travel the world with their Pokémon, battling other trainers and thwarting evil organizations.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and engaging way to dive into the Pokémon universe through a medium other than video games, enhancing creativity and reading enjoyment.
  • Perfect for: Pokémon enthusiasts and those who enjoy dynamic stories with a mix of friendship, adventure, and strategy.

• Yotsuba&! by Kiyohiko Azuma
  • Genre(s): Comedy, Slice of Life, Manga
  • Synopsis: The series depicts the everyday adventures of a quirky and energetic five-year-old girl named Yotsuba as she explores the world around her with a sense of wonder and excitement.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's light-hearted and humorous, perfect for encouraging a love for reading through laughter and relatable situations.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy funny stories and exploring the simple joys of everyday life.

• Cardcaptor Sakura by CLAMP
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance, Magical Girl, Manga
  • Synopsis: Sakura Kinomoto accidentally releases a set of magical cards into the world and must retrieve them to prevent catastrophe. Each card grants powers and poses unique challenges.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines magical adventures with lessons about responsibility and bravery. The enchanting artwork and storylines captivate readers' imaginations.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love magic and fantasy, and stories featuring strong, resourceful female protagonists.

• Naruto by Masashi Kishimoto
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Fantasy, Martial Arts, Manga
  • Synopsis: Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja with dreams of becoming the strongest leader in his village, faces various challenges and battles while seeking acceptance and achieving his aspirations.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's filled with thrilling battles, strong friendships, and valuable life lessons about perseverance and teamwork.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in action-packed stories and exploring themes of growth and self-discovery.

Educational Anime Books for 11-Year-Olds

• How to Draw Anime by Christopher Hart
  • Genre(s): Educational, Art, How-To
  • Synopsis: This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to draw typical anime characters. It covers various styles and techniques used in anime art.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Artistic skills, creativity, attention to detail
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a practical and engaging introduction to drawing that encourages artistic expression and improves hand-eye coordination.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young artists and anime fans interested in creating their own characters.

• Science of Anime by Lois H. Gresh
  • Genre(s): Science, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book explores the scientific concepts behind popular anime films and series, explaining physics, biology, and technology in an accessible way.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific literacy, critical thinking, understanding of real-world applications of science
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes learning science fun by connecting it with the anime stories and characters that kids love.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are fans of anime and curious about how science plays a role in their favorite shows.

• The Manga Artist's Workbook by Christopher Hart
  • Genre(s): Art, Educational, How-To
  • Synopsis: This workbook offers easy-to-follow exercises for mastering the art of drawing Manga, focusing on characters, expressions, and movements.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Drawing skills, artistic expression, motor skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a structured approach to learning an artistic skill, with plenty of practice opportunities.
  • Perfect for: Young artists who want to refine their drawing skills and learn specific Manga techniques.

• Manga in Theory and Practice by Hirohiko Araki
  • Genre(s): Art, Writing, Educational
  • Synopsis: Written by the famous manga creator of "JoJo's Bizarre Adventure," this book delves into the craft of creating manga, from character development to storytelling.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creative writing, narrative skills, artistic understanding
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers insights from a renowned manga artist, making it a valuable resource for both reading and creative writing.
  • Perfect for: Budding writers and artists who are serious about understanding and creating their own manga.

Challenging Anime Books for 11-Year-Olds

• Attack on Titan by Hajime Isayama
  • Genre(s): Action, Dark Fantasy, Post-Apocalyptic
  • Synopsis: Humanity resides within enormous walled cities to protect themselves from the Titans, gigantic humanoid creatures. The story follows Eren Yeager and his friends who join the military to fight the Titans after their city is invaded.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative includes complex themes such as survival, morality, and the harsh realities of war.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a gripping, thought-provoking story that challenges readers to think about sacrifice, freedom, and the human condition.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a thrilling, emotionally engaging story that goes beyond simple black-and-white morality.

• Death Note by Tsugumi Ohba, illustrated by Takeshi Obata
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Supernatural, Psychological Thriller
  • Synopsis: A high school student, Light Yagami, discovers a mysterious notebook that allows him to kill anyone whose name he writes in it. As he uses the notebook to rid the world of criminals, he attracts the attention of an enigmatic detective known as L.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features intricate plot twists and moral dilemmas that require critical thinking and ethical consideration.
  • Why we recommend this book: The intense cat-and-mouse game between Light and L offers suspense and intellectual stimulation, encouraging readers to question the nature of justice and power.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy cerebral stories that challenge their problem-solving skills and ethical viewpoints.

• Fullmetal Alchemist by Hiromu Arakawa
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Fantasy, Steampunk
  • Synopsis: Two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, use alchemy in search of the legendary Philosopher's Stone to restore their bodies after a disastrous failed ritual to bring their mother back to life.
  • Why this book is challenging: The series explores complex themes such as sacrifice, loss, and the consequences of one's actions.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines an imaginative setting with a deep, morally complex story that also teaches about resilience and redemption.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in a blend of adventure, science fiction, and ethical questions.

• The Promised Neverland by Kaiu Shirai, illustrated by Posuka Demizu
  • Genre(s): Dark Fantasy, Thriller, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: Children at Grace Field House orphanage live a comfortable life with a loving caretaker, but they discover a dark and cruel truth about their existence and the outside world, leading them to plan a risky escape.
  • Why this book is challenging: The story presents layered puzzles and strategic thinking, along with psychological depth.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a suspenseful, strategic narrative that encourages critical thinking and the importance of teamwork and courage.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love thrilling, mind-bending stories with strong character development and emotional depth.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the colorful world of anime books, it's a fantastic way to explore vibrant stories and develop strong reading habits. Here are some fun exercises tailored for 11-year-olds to enhance their reading experience and make the most out of their anime book adventures.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on how many pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Encourages a consistent reading habit and a sense of accomplishment.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase the challenge.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a special area in your home dedicated to reading.
  • How it helps: Minimizes distractions and enhances focus on reading.
  • Tips: Include comfortable seating and good lighting, plus some personal touches like posters from favorite anime.

• Character Role-Play
  • What it is: Act out scenes or dialogues from the book.
  • How it helps: Deepens understanding of the characters and plot.
  • Tips: Use props or costumes for more immersive play and try doing this with friends.

• Illustrate the Story
  • What it is: Draw scenes or characters from the book.
  • How it helps: Enhances visual memory and comprehension of the story.
  • Tips: Don't worry about artistic skills; focus on how the scenes make you feel.

• Discuss With Friends
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends who are also reading it.
  • How it helps: Improves understanding through discussion and different perspectives.
  • Tips: Form a small reading group to share thoughts and predictions about the story.

• Book Summary Videos
  • What it is: Create short videos summarizing chapters or notable events.
  • How it helps: Helps with recall and narration skills.
  • Tips: Use a smartphone or tablet to record and maybe add some fun graphics or animations.

These exercises aren't just about reading; they're about making reading a dynamic and engaging part of your everyday life. Give them a try, and see how much more exciting your journey through anime books can become. Happy reading!