Manga Bible is created

A new and fresh interpretation of the Bible is being sold in bookstores across the world.

The Manga Bible, illustrated in the style of the famous Japanese comic books, is aimed at teenagers who would normally not be interested in reading the Christian text.

The Christian Bible has been given a make over, and made to look like a Japanese comic book. Inside, traditional biblical characters have been made to look like superheroes.

Manga are Japanese comic books or cartoons that in recent years have gained popularity across Europe, the United States and other parts of the world.

The Japanese public, both children and adults, are veracious consumers of Manga.

The Manga Bible has been written and illustrated by London-based artist Siku. He says the Manga style is a perfect tool to help tell the complex stories found in the Bible. Siku is a well-known illustrator, who initially started as a computer games designer. His faith has played an important role in the decision to illustrate the religious text.

The language used in the comic book is certainly very colloquial. He says he chose 'street' language so as to connect with younger readers. It has already been published in several languages around the world, by Hodder and Stoughton.

David Moloney, publishing editor at Hodder and Stoughton, says there is a definite trend for Manga illustration at the moment. Moloney says the book is not only aimed at a Christian readership, but also at fans of the comic book genre.

For now, some Christian groups have been using the Manga Bible as an aid in their normal classes.

Cris Rogers, an ordained minister, says the Manga Bible is useful for those who have never picked up a standard Bible, because it is a gentle introduction. The teenagers sitting in Rogers' group seem happy to look at it. Despite using the Manga Bible, Rogers says it will never replace the real Bible.

The Bible study group is part of Soul Survivor, a youth organization funded by the Church of England. Katherine Akhurst, a regular at the group's meetings, says those behind the Manga Bible have included all the important story elements. Andre Adefope says it makes the Bible a more accessible text.
The Manga Bible is on sale in both Christian bookshops and standard high street book stores.

Several versions are available, ranging from an abridged version that includes extra information on passages from the Bible, to a 'lighter' version designed for fans of classic comic books.