What Are The Best Mangas Books To Read In 2023?

There’s this incredible feeling that sweeps over me when I dive into a manga that just hooks me from the very first page. I’d have to mention 'Attack on Titan' as one of the most riveting series out there. The storyline skillfully combines elements of horror, mystery, and a little politics, creating a richly woven tapestry that draws you into its dark world. The struggle of humanity against gigantic humanoid creatures is parallel to a deeper metaphor of freedom, survival, and what it means to be human. The characters are so thoughtfully developed, and as the plot unfolds, every twist becomes a gut punch. I never expected to cry over a fictional world like this, but here we are! Another title I absolutely adore is 'Fullmetal Alchemist.' The journey of Edward and Alphonse Elric searching for the Philosopher's Stone hits so many emotional notes. It’s not just about alchemy and adventures; it sheds light on loss, redemption, and the moral complexities of sacrifice. There are so many layers to the story that you can read it multiple times and always find something new to reflect upon. I'm still considering tattooing some symbols from this series because of how much it resonates with me! Lastly, 'Death Note' stands out with its engaging psychological game between the protagonist, Light Yagami, and the brilliant detective L. It’s a real mind-bender! An intellectual cat-and-mouse chase where ethical dilemmas take center stage. The philosophical questions about justice and morality hooked me, and I often find myself thinking; would I make the same choices as Light? The storytelling in this one is so compelling that it feels almost cinematic at times, blending suspense and intrigue. Talk about a rollercoaster ride!

As someone who devours both manga and philosophical literature, I’ve come across a few gems that explore free will in fascinating ways. 'Pluto' by Naoki Urasawa, a reimagining of Osamu Tezuka’s 'Astro Boy,' delves deep into the nature of autonomy and destiny through its android characters. The story questions whether free will exists when programmed directives conflict with personal desires. Another standout is 'Monster' by the same author, where the protagonist grapples with moral responsibility and the illusion of choice in a world governed by chaos. For a more abstract take, 'Goodnight Punpun' by Inio Asano follows a boy’s life as he navigates existential dread and the weight of his decisions. The manga’s surreal art style amplifies the themes of determinism versus self-determination. 'Vagabond,' based on Eiji Yoshikawa’s novel 'Musashi,' also touches on free will through the samurai Miyamoto Musashi’s journey to define his own path. These works don’t just entertain; they make you ponder the boundaries of human agency.

I've been deep in the manga scene for years, and 'Dragon on Books' definitely has some interesting spin-offs that fly under the radar. The most notable one is 'Dragon on Books: Crimson Pages,' which explores the backstory of the librarian dragon clan. It's got this gorgeous art style that makes every panel feel like an illuminated manuscript, and the lore expansion is insane—like how the dragons actually encode human memories into their books. There's also a quirky 4-koma spin-off called 'Dragon on Shelves' that focuses on slice-of-life antics in the library, with chibi versions of the characters dealing with overdue books and chaotic magic leaks. Another hidden gem is 'Dragon on Books: Eclipse Archive,' a darker spin-off set in an alternate timeline where the library becomes a battleground for forbidden knowledge. The tone shifts to psychological horror, with dragons slowly going mad from absorbing cursed texts. It’s wild how the artist uses ink blot effects to show mental corruption. Lesser-known spin-offs include crossover one-shots with 'The Ancient Magus’ Bride' and 'Raven of the Inner Palace,' where the dragons debate metaphysics with other fantasy creatures. The franchise really thrives in these experimental side stories.

One of the most enchanting reads for any fantasy lover has to be 'Made in Abyss'. The art is absolutely stunning, drawing you into this beautifully dark world. It follows Riko, a young girl, as she descends into the Abyss, a mysterious chasm that holds rare relics and unfathomable dangers. What really hooked me was how the story masterfully combines whimsical charm with brutal real-life stakes—it's like you’re flipping through a fairy tale that suddenly reveals its darker chapters. The characters are rich and layered, particularly Riko and her robot companion Reg, whose dynamic evolves beautifully throughout the journey. Additionally, the world-building is top-notch, filled with imaginative creatures and hauntingly beautiful landscapes that have stayed with me long after I read it. For fantasy lovers who appreciate emotional depth alongside captivating visuals, 'Made in Abyss' is an absolute must-read. Trust me, it’s a ride that stays with you, leaving a mark long after you turn the last page. A classic that continues to shine is 'Fullmetal Alchemist'. The ingenious blend of alchemy, science, and a gripping storyline speaks volumes about the genre. Following brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric on their quest to restore their bodies after a failed alchemical experiment, the narrative tackles themes of loss, sacrifice, and the moral dilemmas of power. The fantasy elements are intricately woven with real-world concepts, making it not just entertaining but thought-provoking as well. It's easy, I think, to see why it's hailed as one of the best.

As someone who spends hours scrolling through BookTok and diving into manga, I’ve noticed some fascinating parallels between the two. For fans of 'My Hero Academia,' 'The Atlas Six' by Olivie Blake is a great pick—it’s packed with morally complex characters and a competitive, high-stakes academy setting. If you love the emotional depth of 'Your Lie in April,' 'They Both Die at the End' by Adam Silvera will hit you right in the feels with its bittersweet story of love and loss. For those who enjoy the intricate world-building of 'Attack on Titan,' 'The Poppy War' by R.F. Kuang offers a dark, immersive experience with themes of war and survival. And if you’re into the quirky, slice-of-life vibes of 'K-On!,' 'The House in the Cerulean Sea' by TJ Klune is a heartwarming tale of found family and self-discovery. These books capture the essence of popular mangas while offering something fresh for readers to explore.

Starting out with manga can feel like stepping into a vastly beautiful world filled with unique art and storytelling. A perfect choice for beginners is 'My Hero Academia.' The story dives into a universe where superheroes rule, making it easy to relate to the characters' aspirations and struggles. What I love about it is how dynamic the artwork is, paired with a balance of heartwarming moments and epic battles. Plus, it's packed with character development that keeps you wanting more! Another great starter is 'One Piece,' a grand adventure that follows Monkey D. Luffy and his pirate crew in search of the ultimate treasure. The humor and adventure elements are super appealing, especially since the world-building is incredibly rich. Each character has their own dream, and you really get invested in their journeys. It's the kind of story that reminds me of childhood memories spent searching for buried treasure in the backyard. While both of these titles are action-packed, gaining an emotional connection with the characters makes them feel relatable. So, if you're just getting into manga, definitely give these two a shot; they can be gateways to discovering even more amazing stories! If you’re looking for something a bit different, 'Death Note' offers a gripping narrative full of moral quandaries and psychological twists. I found myself glued to each chapter, exploring the dark themes of justice and power. It’s a bit of a contrast to the lighter fare, but the storytelling is top-notch and certainly worth exploring!

When I think about Spanish writers whose works have been adapted into mangas, Miguel de Cervantes immediately comes to mind. His masterpiece, 'Don Quixote', has inspired countless adaptations across various media, including mangas. The story of the delusional knight and his loyal squire, Sancho Panza, resonates deeply with manga creators who often explore themes of idealism versus reality. The visual storytelling in mangas brings a fresh perspective to Cervantes' timeless tale, making it accessible to a new generation of readers. Another notable writer is Federico García Lorca, whose poetic and dramatic works have also found their way into mangas. His plays, rich with symbolism and emotional depth, translate beautifully into the manga format, where artists can visually interpret his complex characters and themes. The fusion of Lorca's lyrical prose with the dynamic art style of mangas creates a unique reading experience that honors the original while offering something entirely new.

One of the most iconic fantasy novels adapted into manga is 'The Lord of the Rings'. The manga version captures the epic journey of Frodo and the Fellowship with stunning artwork that brings Middle-earth to life. The adaptation stays true to Tolkien’s rich lore, from the Shire’s cozy hobbit holes to the dark, foreboding landscapes of Mordor. It’s a visual feast for fans who want to experience the story in a new medium. Another standout is 'The Witcher' series. The manga adaptation dives deep into Geralt’s monster-hunting adventures, blending dark fantasy with intricate character development. The art style perfectly complements the gritty, morally complex world of the books. It’s a must-read for fans of the novels or the Netflix series. Lastly, 'The Chronicles of Narnia' has a manga adaptation that beautifully reimagines C.S. Lewis’s magical world. The artwork captures the whimsical yet profound nature of the series, making it a great way to revisit Narnia. These adaptations prove that fantasy novels can thrive in the manga format, offering fresh perspectives on beloved stories.