Well practice makes perfect. I know you can probably buy some books that tell you how to draw manga and anime characters, but that depends on what your art style is.
In my opinion, I really don't like the art styles in "how to draw anime/manga" books...
I get inspiration from the anime or manga itself and from other people's work.
Getting myself to even start practicing is probably my greatest problem. Probably gotta set myself some goal as motivation or something.
As for books, I agree with you. I had a look at some they offer in the shops here, but I didn't like the style there as well.
No idea what style I'll end up with if I ever get better, will have to play around and find out I guess.
Btw, I also get inspiration from other people's work, namely all the ones in this thread. If it wasn't for all of your great work, I would never have thought of wanting to draw myself