Introduction
What is Manga?
Manga are Japanese comics.
They are typically read from right to left, and start at what would be considered the back of the book.
This image can be found within the book to aid readers in understanding the reading order.
Length: Manga are printed in volumes. Manga are written and published first in magazines in Japan. Those chapters are reprinted to create a volume- the entire story is generally not printed in one volume. This is something to keep in mind when starting a new series as it is important to read the volumes in correct order!
What is the difference between Manga and Anime?
In Japan, the term Anime is used to refer to all animation, much like cartoon is in English. Anime are TV shows or movies characterized by high-contrast, bright colors, and thematic elements of science fiction and fantasy.
Manga is an umbrella term for a wide variety of comic books and graphic novels originally produced and published in Japan. Unlike American comic books, which are usually printed in full color, Japanese manga are almost always published in black and white.
Types of Manga
There is something for everyone!
Manga is categorized by audience first, then by genre. Primarily, there are 5 main types of Manga:
Shonen: Manga aimed at males 18 and under
Common themes are action, adventure, friendship, coming of age.
Shojo: Manga aimed at tween and teen girls 
Common themes are romance, drama, coming of age.
Seinen: Manga aimed at men 18 and older
Common themes are action, violence, adult themes.
Josei: Manga aimed at adult women
Common themes are romance, drama, adult themes.
Kodumomuke: Manga aimed at young children
These series will often be cutesy, moralistic, and fun. Both the Pokemon manga and anime are probably the most well-known examples of a Kodomomuke series.