tankoubon

Tankoubon are paperback book collections of Japanese manga series that have been serialized in magazines. The term literally translates to "collection volume" in Japanese. These volumes are typically published after a manga has gained some popularity, allowing readers to purchase collected chapters in a more durable and convenient format than the original magazine installments. Tankoubon are usually smaller in size and printed on lower-quality paper compared to hardcover editions or deluxe reprints, making them a more affordable option for consumers. The release of a tankoubon often marks a significant milestone for a manga, indicating its success and continued production. They are a standard way for manga to be distributed and consumed in Japan and have become a recognizable format for manga fans worldwide. The pricing and volume count can vary greatly depending on the publisher and the length of the series.