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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect manga books for 11-year-olds? Whether they're just diving into the colorful world of manga or are seasoned readers looking to expand their collection, finding age-appropriate and engaging titles can be a bit of a challenge. But don't worry, we've got you covered! Keep reading to discover a variety of manga books that are sure to captivate and entertain any 11-year-old reader.

Fun Manga Books for 11-Year-Olds

• My Hero Academia by Kohei Horikoshi
  • Genre(s): Action, Superhero, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This manga follows Izuku Midoriya, a boy born without superpowers in a world where they are common, but who still dreams of becoming a hero himself. He is scouted by the greatest hero, who shares his power with Izuku after recognizing his potential, and helps him enroll in a prestigious high school for heroes in training.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's packed with action and inspirational themes about pursuing your dreams despite the odds, which is a powerful message for kids.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love superheroes and stories about overcoming challenges.

• Pokémon Adventures by Hidenori Kusaka, illustrated by Mato for the first nine volumes and subsequently by Satoshi Yamamoto
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: This series follows the adventures of Pokémon trainers, primarily Red, as they travel through various regions, battle with their Pokémon, and thwart the plans of the evil Team Rocket.
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the fun and excitement of the Pokémon world, encouraging imaginative thinking and problem-solving.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy video games and adventurous tales.

• Yotsuba&! by Kiyohiko Azuma
  • Genre(s): Comedy, Slice of Life
  • Synopsis: The series depicts the everyday adventures of a green-haired and wide-eyed girl named Yotsuba as she explores the world around her with childlike wonder and enthusiasm.
  • Why we recommend this book: With its light-hearted and humorous take on daily life, it helps foster a love for reading through laughter and joy.
  • Perfect for: Children who appreciate humor and exploring the simple joys of life.

• Cardcaptor Sakura by CLAMP
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Sakura Kinomoto accidentally releases a set of magical cards into the world and must retrieve them to prevent catastrophe. With each card she captures, she grows stronger and learns more about her own latent magical abilities.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines magical adventures with lessons about responsibility and self-growth, making it both entertaining and educational.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy magical stories and strong female protagonists.

• Hikaru no Go by Yumi Hotta, illustrated by Takeshi Obata
  • Genre(s): Drama, Sports (Board Games)
  • Synopsis: Hikaru Shindo discovers an old Go board with the spirit of a Go master from the Heian era, Fujiwara-no-Sai, trapped inside. Sai inspires Hikaru to take up Go, leading him into the world of competitive Go.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces readers to the intellectual game of Go through an engaging storyline and dynamic characters, promoting strategic thinking and perseverance.
  • Perfect for: Kids interested in games and those who enjoy stories with historical elements and personal growth.

Educational Manga Books for 11-Year-Olds

• Science Ninja Team Gatchaman by Yoshitaka Amano
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Action
  • Synopsis: This manga follows a team of five young superheroes who use their skills to fight against the terrorist organization, Galactor, which threatens the world with environmental destruction.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Environmental science, teamwork, problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines action-packed scenes with important lessons about environmental conservation and the power of working together towards a common goal.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are fans of superheroes and are interested in environmental issues.

• Silver Spoon by Hiromu Arakawa
  • Genre(s): Comedy, Slice of Life, Educational
  • Synopsis: Set in an agricultural school in Hokkaido, this manga follows Yuugo Hachiken, a city boy who enrolls at the school without any plans for the future and learns about farming life, food production, and the importance of hard work.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Agricultural science, food production, personal responsibility
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a detailed and humorous look at agricultural life and the food industry, encouraging readers to think about where their food comes from and the importance of agriculture.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy learning about different lifestyles and the origins of their food.

• Cells at Work! by Akane Shimizu
  • Genre(s): Educational, Comedy
  • Synopsis: This unique manga personifies cells in the human body as workers, focusing on a red blood cell and a white blood cell as they do their jobs to keep the body healthy against various threats like viruses and bacteria.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Biology, human anatomy, health education
  • Why we recommend this book: It creatively teaches readers about the functions of different cells in the body and how the immune system works, all in an entertaining and accessible way.
  • Perfect for: Children curious about science and how the human body functions.

• Nichijou by Keiichi Arawi
  • Genre(s): Comedy, Slice of Life
  • Synopsis: This manga is a quirky take on the ordinary lives of a group of students and their teachers, filled with surreal and humorous events that occur in what should be a normal school setting.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creative thinking, humor appreciation
  • Why we recommend this book: Its absurd and surreal humor can help develop a child's ability to appreciate and understand different forms of comedy and storytelling.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy offbeat humor and imaginative scenarios in everyday settings.

• Barakamon by Satsuki Yoshino
  • Genre(s): Comedy, Slice of Life
  • Synopsis: After punching a famous calligrapher, young and handsome calligrapher Seishuu Handa is exiled to a small island as punishment, where his city upbringing clashes with the rural community but ultimately leads to personal growth and self-discovery.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural awareness, personal development, artistic appreciation
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully illustrates the journey of self-discovery and the impact of community and culture on personal growth, all wrapped in humor and heartwarming interactions.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are interested in art and stories about personal growth and community life.

Challenging Manga Books for 11-Year-Olds

• The Promised Neverland by Kaiu Shirai, illustrated by Posuka Demizu
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Thriller, Supernatural
  • Synopsis: Children at the Grace Field House orphanage live an idyllic life until they discover a dark and cruel truth about their existence and what lies outside their orphanage walls, prompting them to plan a risky escape.
  • Why this book is challenging: The complex plot and moral dilemmas presented in this manga offer a deeper, psychological challenge that goes beyond simple adventure or fantasy themes.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages critical thinking and problem-solving, as the characters must use their intellect and teamwork to tackle difficult situations.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy suspense, mysteries, and stories that challenge their perceptions.

• A Silent Voice by Yoshitoki Oima
  • Genre(s): Drama, Psychological
  • Synopsis: The story revolves around Shoya Ishida, a former bully, who seeks redemption by reconnecting with Shoko Nishimiya, a deaf girl he tormented in his youth.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles complex themes such as bullying, disability, and redemption, requiring readers to empathize with diverse perspectives.
  • Why we recommend this book: This manga offers a powerful look at the consequences of our actions and the importance of empathy and understanding.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in emotional growth and stories about real-life issues.

• Death Note by Tsugumi Ohba, illustrated by Takeshi Obata
  • Genre(s): Thriller, Supernatural, Mystery
  • Synopsis: 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 a brilliant detective known only as L.
  • Why this book is challenging: The ethical questions and high-stakes cat-and-mouse game require sophisticated thinking and moral judgment.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping psychological thriller that stimulates deep thought about justice, morality, and the consequences of absolute power.
  • Perfect for: Advanced readers who enjoy intense narratives and complex ethical dilemmas.

• Haikyu!! by Haruichi Furudate
  • Genre(s): Sports, Drama, Comedy
  • Synopsis: Shoyo Hinata, inspired by a small-statured pro volleyball player, aims to become a top player despite his height. He joins his school's volleyball team, encountering both fierce rivals and new friendships.
  • Why this book is challenging: The detailed portrayal of volleyball, team dynamics, and personal growth provides a multifaceted reading experience.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines exciting sports action with lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and personal development.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love sports and stories about overcoming personal limitations.

• Vinland Saga by Makoto Yukimura
  • Genre(s): Historical, Adventure, Drama
  • Synopsis: Set in Viking-era England, this manga follows Thorfinn, a young warrior caught in the brutal world of war and conquest, as he seeks revenge against the man who killed his father.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features complex historical content and mature themes, requiring a higher level of comprehension and maturity.
  • Why we recommend this book: This epic saga offers a blend of intense action and deep storytelling that explores themes of revenge, war, and the search for a meaningful life.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate historical settings and epic tales of adventure and conflict.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the colorful world of manga and you're around 11 years old, developing good reading habits can make your experience even more enjoyable. Here are a few exercises designed to help you get the most out of your manga books. Not only will these activities enhance your understanding, but they'll also keep you organized and excited about your reading journey!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much manga you want to read each day or week.
  • How it helps: Helps you stay consistent and make reading a regular part of your day.
  • Tips: Start with small, manageable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Manga Vocabulary List
  • What it is: Keep a list of new or interesting words you find in your manga.
  • How it helps: Enhances your vocabulary and understanding of the story.
  • Tips: Review your list regularly to reinforce new words.

• Summarize the Chapters
  • What it is: Write a brief summary of each chapter after you read it.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention of the plot.
  • Tips: Keep your summaries short and focus on the main events.

• Discuss With Friends
  • What it is: Talk about the manga with friends who are also reading it.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and different perspectives.
  • Tips: Try to cover different aspects of the book during your discussions, such as characters, plot, and artwork.

• Draw Your Favorite Scene
  • What it is: Sketch a scene from the manga that you particularly enjoyed.
  • How it helps: Deepens your connection with the material and boosts creativity.
  • Tips: Don't worry about perfecting your drawing skills; focus on expressing how the scene made you feel.

• Predict the Plot
  • What it is: Guess what might happen next in the story before you continue reading.
  • How it helps: Enhances engagement and anticipation as you read.
  • Tips: Write down your predictions and check how many you got right as you read.

Incorporating these exercises into your manga reading routine can significantly enhance your enjoyment and understanding of the stories. Not only will you get more out of your books, but you'll also develop skills that are beneficial in many other areas of learning. So grab your manga, pick a comfy spot, and get started on building those great reading habits! Happy reading!