While waiting for the next season of your favorite anime to be released or for more shows to be created, why don't you try reading some manga instead? However, if you have not read any before and are a complete beginner, it may be overwhelming at first to pick up a series.
It is not unusual for a story to start strong and then get boring in the middle, but the following stories are sure to keep you entertained from start to finish. From the darkest origin characters to happy slice-of-life comedies, the list has it all.
10 The Fable
If you like stories about hitmen and organized crime, then Fable is a great choice. The unique art style of the manga brings the characters to life, and the blend of satire and thrill only adds to the intriguing plot.
A legendary hitman is ordered to take a sabbatical as the number of his assassinations has grown too high. He assumes a new identity with his driver, and together, they must lie low while avoiding getting into trouble for one year.
9 Bakuman
If you have ever wondered what goes behind the making of a manga, then Bakuman is perfect for you. The team behind Death Note came up with a story about two high school students teaming up to make it big in the manga industry.
With its compelling plot, relatable characters, and a good balance of humor and drama, Bakuman provides an immersive experience. It not only showcases the challenges faced by aspiring mangakas but also delves into the intricacies of the industry.
8 Tokyo Ghoul
Tokyo Ghoul is a great horror manga, but sadly quite underrated (Thanks to the underwhelming performance of its anime adaptation). Its unique blend of supernatural horror, action, and character-driven storytelling creates an engaging and thrilling experience.
The protagonist Kaneki's transformation into a half-human, half-ghoul, and his struggle to navigate the complex moral and social dynamics of his world provide a compelling narrative. With its striking artwork and intense battles, it's a must-read for fans of horror and stories like Attack on Titan.
7 Nichijou
Nichijou is a great comedy manga for beginners. With each chapter featuring separate short stories about a group of high-school girls, it offers a delightful and light-hearted reading experience.
The manga's popularity among Japanese learners stems from its use of easy-to-understand language, making it accessible for language learners. The humorous situations, adorable characters, and simple yet engaging storytelling make Nichijou an enjoyable introduction to manga.
6 Uzumaki
Uzumaki, Junji Ito's most famous manga, is a great choice for beginners. Despite being a horror manga, it captivates readers with its bizarre and enticing narrative rather than purely haunting them.
The story revolves around a town plagued by a mysterious spiral that infects its residents. The intricate artwork and imaginative storytelling create a compelling reading experience. Additionally, the open-ended conclusion leaves room for interpretation, encouraging readers to contemplate the deeper meanings within the story.
5 Attack On Titan
Attack on Titan is by far one of the greatest manga out there. The meticulous planning evident in each chapter will astound you as you revisit previous pages, astonished at the subtle foreshadowing woven throughout.
It follows the story of a civilization hiding behind three walls and trying to protect themselves from man-eating titans. A chain of unfortunate events unfolds when one of the walls breaks, and titans flood the city.
4 Assassination Classroom
Assassination Classroom is an excellent manga for beginners, with an equally compelling anime adaptation. The story follows a remarkable teacher who is a mysterious octopus creature.
After blowing up the moon, he challenges a classroom of junior high school students to assassinate him, becoming their teacher in the process. The manga seamlessly blends action, humor, and heartfelt moments, captivating readers with its unique premise and engaging characters.
3 Chainsaw Man
It should come as no surprise that Chainsaw Man is on this list. The anime is a huge success, and so is the manga. It features an equally amazing art style that will have you reading through the chapters in one go.
The manga's gripping narrative follows Denji, a devil hunter who merges with a chainsaw demon. Packed with intense action, dark humor, and unexpected plot twists, Chainsaw Man offers a thrilling and addictive reading experience.
2 Spy X Family
For beginners seeking a comedic manga, Spy x Family is a must-read. With a popular anime adaptation and a delightful storyline, it revolves around a fake family composed of a spy, an esper, and an assassin.
This great non-battle shonen manga brims with hilarious misunderstandings and thrilling adventures. You can't help but root for this peculiar family and their hidden secrets. Spy x Family offers an entertaining and light-hearted experience, making it an excellent choice for newcomers to dive into the world of manga.
1 20th Century Boys
20th Century Boys is an outstanding manga for newcomers, showcasing Naoki Urasawa's brilliance. While it surprisingly lacks an anime adaptation, its gripping narrative captivates readers.
The story revolves around childhood friends and their past club, triggered by a mysterious death that could spell doom for the world. As they investigate the death and a suspicious cult's rise, suspense and intrigue intensify.