The best manga to read goes far beyond epic battles and dramatic scenes: they captivate readers of all ages with engaging stories, memorable characters, and universes that seem to come to life with every page. This global success is only growing, and it's no wonder: manga has become a passion for millions and continues to be one of the most captivating forms of entertainment in the world.
With so many titles available, choosing where to start (or which one to read next) can be a daunting task. The good news? We’re here to make your life easier! We’ve put together a comprehensive list of the best manga to read that will suit all tastes: from romance to action, from comedy to supernatural. Stay with us and discover the next masterpiece that will keep you hooked from start to finish!
How to read manga
Before diving into the best manga to read, let's clear up a common question for those who are just starting out in this world: How do you read manga? It's important to know that reading is done in reverse order compared to Western comics: you start from right to left, both on the pages and in the speech bubbles. It may seem confusing at first, but within a few minutes your brain adapts and reading flows naturally, respecting the original Japanese structure.
Many new readers find it strange at first, but quickly adapt to the unique rhythm of oriental reading. The combination of expressive art and engaging narrative usually captures attention right from the start. It is common that, after the first manga, curiosity only increases, making this gateway the beginning of a new literary passion. Now, let's get to know the best works to start with?
Bungou Stray Dogs (2016)
Among the best mangas to read, a unique work written by Kafka Asagiri and illustrated by Sango Harukawa stands out. Mixing mystery, action and fantasy, the manga features characters inspired by real literary authors, with abilities based on their works. This creative proposal grabs attention from the first pages and offers an engaging and intelligent experience.
The plot follows the members of the Armed Detective Agency, a group with supernatural powers that protects the city of Yokohama. The protagonist, Atsushi Nakajima, is a young man with a special ability that puts him at the center of several dangerous missions. The series is ideal for those looking for a read full of style, tension and literary references.
Are you Alice? (2009)
Among the best manga to read is an intriguing work written by Ai Ninomiya and illustrated by Ikumi Katagiri. Mixing dark fantasy and mystery, the title presents a bold reinterpretation of the classic “Alice in Wonderland”, with a new plot full of twists and turns. The plot involves dangerous games and eccentric characters that keep your attention from beginning to end.
The protagonist is an enigmatic young man named the new “Alice”, forced to participate in a deadly challenge commanded by the Queen of Hearts. With the help of the Mad Hatter, he must face a journey full of psychological tension and moral dilemmas. Ideal for those looking for something different and deep, this manga deserves to be highlighted among the best mangas to read.
Death Note (2003)
Among the best mangas to read, a work created by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata stands out, combining suspense, mystery and supernatural elements. The plot revolves around a student who finds a notebook capable of causing eliminations with just the name and face of the victim. With this new tool, he decides to impose his own vision of justice.
The main characters, such as the brilliant detective L and the ambitious protagonist, form one of the most striking rivalries in the genre. The manga proposes complex moral debates about power and its consequences, leading the reader through a tense narrative full of twists and turns.
JoJo's Bizarre Adventure (1987)
Few titles are as memorable as JoJo's Bizarre Adventures, one of the best manga to read when you're looking for longevity and originality. Created by Hirohiko Araki, the manga features the descendants of the Joestar family in action-packed stories with a unique style. With over 120 volumes, the work is a true phenomenon.
Mixing humor, drama and intelligent battles, the manga stands out eccentric characters with surreal abilities and unforgettable visuals. For those who enjoy creative and intense plots, this is one of the best choices among the best mangas to read today.
Hunter x Hunter (1998)
With an engaging mix of adventure, emotion, and coming-of-age, Hunter x Hunter is one of the best manga to read for those looking for captivating characters and intense challenges. Created by Yoshihiro Togashi, the manga revolves around Gon Freecss, a boy who dreams of reuniting with his father by becoming a Hunter.
Along the way, Gon crosses paths with other aspirants such as Killua, Leorio, and Kurapika, forming deep bonds and facing remarkable trials. The work combines action, drama, and reflective moments, cementing its place among the best manga to read for both beginners and veterans of the genre.
Spy x Family (2019)
Among the best manga to read, Spy x Family stands out for its captivating mix of espionage, humor, and unlikely family ties. Created by Tatsuya Endo, the manga follows Twilight, a secret agent who must create a fake family to complete a crucial mission.
Unaware of each other's secrets, the members of this peculiar family, a telepathic child, an assassin and a spy, find themselves involved in chaotic and exciting situations. With a shōnen genre and striking characters, this work offers a light and fun read for all audiences.
Demon Slayer (2016)
Among the best manga to read, Kimetsu no Yaiba won over audiences with its intense story and striking visuals. Created by Koyoharu Gotōge, the manga mixes action and drama as it follows the journey of Tanjiro Kamado, a young man who searches for a way to save his sister after a tragic demonic attack.
The shōnen genre is masterfully represented through exciting battles and captivating characters like Nezuko and the hunters from the Demon Slayer Corporation. With a narrative that balances emotion and adrenaline, the work promises to captivate the reader from beginning to end.
Given (2013)
Among the best manga to read when the theme is romance with emotional depth, Given stands out with a sensitive and engaging narrative. Written and illustrated by Natsuki Kizu, the manga follows Mafuyu Satou, a silent young man who finds solace in music when he joins a band led by Ritsuka Uenoyama.
The focus is on the bonds created between the band members, exploring themes such as love, grief and overcoming with a delicate and realistic perspective. In addition to Mafuyu and Ritsuka, other characters such as Haruki and Akihiko enrich the plot with remarkable stories. A perfect work for those looking for something emotionally captivating.
Naruto (1999)
Among the best mangas to read is Naruto, an essential work for those who want to delve into the shounen universe. Created by Masashi Kishimoto, the manga tells the story of Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja who wants to gain recognition and reach the best place in his village.
With remarkable characters such as Sasuke, Sakura and Kakashi, the story balances intense battles, drama and personal growth. Throughout the plot, readers follow themes such as friendship, overcoming and destiny, making the work a timeless classic of the genre.
Attack on Titan (2009)
Among the best mangas to read, Attack on Titan stands out for its intense and mysterious plot. Written and illustrated by Hajime Isayama, the manga is set in a world threatened by giant creatures known as titans, who put humanity at constant risk.
Focusing on characters such as Eren, Mikasa and Armin, the story mixes action, drama and suspense in a journey for survival and truth. The work wins over readers by exploring deep themes, such as freedom and sacrifice, maintaining suspense until the end.
Conclusion
Here we explore works that have marked generations, with renowned authors, captivating characters and plots that captivate the reader from beginning to end. Each manga mentioned here has something unique to offer, whether through art, narrative or the themes covered.
Tell us in the comments: which of these mangas is your favorite? Or is there another that you consider essential among the best mangas to read? We would love to hear your recommendations! And if you like love stories with beautiful animations, be sure to check them out too! our article on the seven best romance anime movies which is available here on the website!
Questions that might interest you
What are the best mangas for beginners?
Spy x Family and Naruto are among the best manga for beginners.
What makes a good adventure manga?
How much he manages to keep the reader engaged in his story throughout the chapters.
