Which Manga Should You Start With?
If you're new to manga or looking for your next series, Spy x Family, Vol. 1 and Haikyu!!, Vol. 3 offer very different entry points. Spy x Family Vol. 1 is the beginning of an action-packed comedy about a fake family, while Haikyu!! Vol. 3 continues the volleyball story mid-arc. Here's how they compare for a new reader.
What Each Volume Offers
- Spy x Family, Vol. 1: An action-packed comedy about a fake family that includes a spy, an assassin and a telepath! Master spy Twilight is unparalleled when it comes to going undercover on dangerous missions for the betterment of the world. But when he receives the ultimate assignment—to get married and have a kid—he may finally be in over his head! Spy x Family Vol. 1 is the start of the series, making it ideal for new readers who want a complete introduction to the characters and premise.
Spy x Family, Vol. 1 - Haikyu!!, Vol. 3 : Go, Team Karasuno!: Karasuno has successfully defeated Tohru Oikawa and Aoba Johsai in their practice match, but the team's future doesn't look so bright. The match uncovered serious holes in Karasuno's defense, which would be fatal in a real game! What they need is a defense expert, a libero, to cover their holes for them. Haikyu!! Vol. 3 is not the first volume; it picks up after a practice match and focuses on team weaknesses. New readers may need to start with Vol. 1 to follow the story.
Haikyu!!, Vol. 3 : Go, Team Karasuno!
Spy x Family Vol. 1 vs Haikyu!! Vol. 3: Key Differences
The two volumes serve different purposes in their respective series. Here's a side-by-side look at what each offers.
- Starting Point: Spy x Family Vol. 1 is the first volume of the series, perfect for beginners. Haikyu!! Vol. 3 is the third volume, so new readers should start with Vol. 1.
- Genre and Tone: Spy x Family blends action, comedy, and family dynamics. Haikyu!! is a sports drama focused on volleyball competition and team growth.
- Page Count: Spy x Family Vol. 1 has 220 pages (paperback). Haikyu!! Vol. 3 has 192 pages (paperback). Both are standard manga lengths.
- Price: Spy x Family Vol. 1 is priced at USD 4.26 (catalog comparison price USD 6.99). Haikyu!! Vol. 3 is USD 5.43 (catalog comparison price USD 7.99). Both are affordable entry points.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you want a complete starting point with a fresh story, Spy x Family Vol. 1 is the clear choice. You get the full setup of the fake family and can jump in without any prior knowledge. If you're already familiar with Haikyu!! from the anime or earlier volumes, Vol. 3 continues the story with a focus on team defense and the introduction of libero Yu Nishinoya. For a new manga reader, Spy x Family Vol. 1 offers a lower barrier to entry.
