My Hero Academia, the popular superhero manga series, has secured the top spot on Bookscan’s February 2025 list of best-selling adult graphic novels in the United States. The series’ ongoing popularity highlights the enduring appeal of manga and its increasing presence in mainstream American readership.
My Hero Academia’s Continued Success
The My Hero Academia series, written and illustrated by Kōhei Horikoshi, has captivated audiences worldwide with its engaging characters, dynamic storylines, and exploration of superhero themes.
Manga’s Growing Popularity in the U.S. Market
Manga, or Japanese comics, has experienced significant growth in popularity in the United States in recent years. This surge can be attributed to several factors:
- Increased Accessibility: Online platforms and digital distribution have made manga more accessible to a wider audience.
- Diverse Storytelling: Manga offers a diverse range of genres and themes that appeal to different readers.
- Cultural Influence: The growing influence of Japanese culture, including anime and video games, has contributed to the popularity of manga.
Bookscan’s Adult Graphic Novel List
Bookscan is a data provider that tracks book sales in the United States. Its monthly adult graphic novel list provides insights into the best-selling graphic novels in the market. The list includes a variety of genres, from superhero comics to literary graphic novels.
Impact on the Graphic Novel Industry
My Hero Academia’s success on Bookscan’s list underscores the growing importance of manga in the graphic novel industry. Its popularity has implications for publishers, retailers, and creators alike.
Publishers’ Focus on Manga
The success of My Hero Academia and other manga series has led publishers to increase their focus on acquiring and publishing manga titles. This trend has resulted in a wider selection of manga available to readers and increased competition in the market.
Retailers’ Manga Sales
Retailers have also benefited from the growing popularity of manga, with many reporting significant increases in manga sales. Some retailers have even dedicated sections of their stores to manga, recognizing its importance as a driver of traffic and revenue.
Opportunities for Creators
The success of manga has created new opportunities for creators, both in Japan and abroad. Aspiring manga artists and writers now have more avenues to pursue their passion, whether through traditional publishing or self-publishing platforms.