In recent years, the popularity of manga has skyrocketed in the United States, captivating readers with its unique storytelling, diverse genres, and breathtaking artwork. From fantasy to slice-of-life, the wide range of manga genres offers something for every type of reader. The increasing fascination with Japanese culture significantly contributes to the burgeoning demand for these titles.
This article delves into the ten most trending manga in the U.S. right now. Whether you are a seasoned manga enthusiast or a newcomer eager to explore, these top titles are currently popular in America and reflect the evolving preferences of a rapidly expanding fanbase.
10. All You Need Is Kill
The narrative follows a soldier named Kiriya Keiji, who battles against extraterrestrial beings until he meets his demise in combat.
Imagine being trapped in a 24-hour time loop. Would you take the chance to relive your best moments or correct past mistakes? For Kiriya, this time loop is a golden opportunity to hone his combat skills. As he strives to escape this cycle, he discovers another individual named Rita, who is ensnared in a similar predicament. Together, they work to unravel the mystery behind the time loop.
9. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure (JoJo’s) is a classic manga created by Araki Hirohiko in 1986. Interestingly, the sequel to this iconic story is still ongoing today. JoJo’s is among the few manga series presented in full-color serialization.
This series narrates the tale of the Joestar family, whose members possess extraordinary abilities and are fated to battle an array of supernatural adversaries. Each part of the story follows a distinct member of the Joestar lineage, typically bearing names that can be abbreviated to “Jojo.”
8. Fire Punch
Set in a world overshadowed by an ice witch’s influence, individuals endowed with powers known as “blessings” exist. The protagonist, Agni, shares the blessing of regeneration with his sister, Luna, helping the remaining elders in their village by providing food sourced from Agni’s severed limbs.
One fateful day, a blessed named Doma arrives in their village, offering to take Agni to his city, Behemdorg. Disgusted by the villagers’ practice of cannibalism, Doma unleashes his relentless flames upon them. Despite Luna’s slower regeneration, she ultimately falls victim as well, urging Agni to “live” before her demise.
7. Oyasumi Punpun
“Oyasumi Punpun” is a coming-of-age manga written and illustrated by Asano Inio, depicting the life journey of Onodera from his elementary school years into adulthood. This manga tackles heavy themes such as depression, trauma, and isolation, making it a challenging read for those with a sensitive disposition.
The narrative explores four phases of his life: elementary school, middle school, high school, and his early twenties, showcasing his struggles and challenges throughout these periods.
Punpun’s challenging family background, marked by a suicidal mother and an abusive, alcoholic father, significantly influences his behavior, leading to a gripping tale of self-loathing and emotional turmoil. It is a profoundly moving story, earning its reputation as one of the best manga ever created, reinforced by its exceptional art.
6. Bleach
Bleach is a manga by Kubo Tite that revolves around Ichigo Kurosaki, a teenage boy who has the ability to see ghosts. Upon discovering the existence of man-eating monsters known as Hollows, he learns about the Soul Reapers, who are responsible for hunting these entities. Due to unforeseen events, Ichigo takes on the role of a Soul Reaper to safeguard his loved ones from danger.
Having sold around 130 million copies, Bleach is among the best-selling manga series ever. Its massive popularity has been further amplified by its successful anime adaptation, particularly with the recent season, Bleach: Thousand Year Blood War.
5. Vagabond
No manga enthusiast is unfamiliar with “Vagabond.” Authored by “Inoue Takehiko” (also known for Slam Dunk and Real), this remarkable series follows Miyamoto Musashi, originally known as Shinmen Takezo, who embarks on a journey to become the ultimate samurai after being banished from his village.
Born into a samurai family with a legendary father, Musashi is driven to master swordsmanship as an escape from the harsh treatment he endured during childhood and his yearning for rebellion.
Though the pacing may be slow, the manga delves deep into philosophical themes that resonate with many readers. Additionally, it is renowned for featuring one of the most impressive art styles in all of manga.
4. Berserk
Berserk is a dark fantasy manga created by Kentaro Miura, first published in 1990. Set in a medieval European backdrop, the story centers around Guts, an orphaned warrior, along with Griffith, the leader of a group called the “Band of the Hawk.”
The tale is profoundly twisted and dark, strongly advised against for those seeking light-hearted reading, due to its graphic depictions of violence. Nevertheless, the exceptional art style and intricate storyline have captivated numerous fans, solidifying its status as a classic in the manga realm.
3. Kaiju No.8
Kaiju No. 8 is a manga created by Naoya Matsumoto that began in 2020 and has since amassed 13 volumes along with a loyal fanbase. The series has gained traction for its thrilling plot and captivating art style, which captivates readers from start to finish.
The story follows Kafka Hibino, a thirty-year-old man who acquires the power to transform into a kaiju after ingesting a mysterious parasitic creature. He must navigate the challenges of his newfound abilities while aspiring to join an organization that hunts kaiju, all to fulfill a promise made to his childhood friend, Mina.
2. Jujutsu Kaisen
Created by Gege Akutami, Jujutsu Kaisen offers a refreshing take on the shonen genre. With a rich cast of relatable characters, expansive world-building, and unexpected plot twists, it successfully engages readers. The series blends traditional shonen elements with darker themes to deliver a narrative that stands apart from standard fare.
The plot revolves around high schooler Itadori Yuuji, who unintentionally swallows a cursed finger while defending his friends in the school occult club. This finger belongs to Ryomen Sukuna, the most formidable cursed spirit. In his bid to control Sukuna and postpone his execution, Yuuji enrolls in Jujutsu High, training to become a sorcerer while hunting for the remaining cursed fingers.
1. One Piece
Eiichiro Oda’s One Piece, which began in 1997 and remains highly popular, is an iconic shounen manga widely recognized as one of Shounen Jump’s “Big Three,” alongside Bleach and Naruto. The story follows Monkey D. Luffy on his quest to explore the Grand Line in search of the legendary treasure known as the One Piece.
The One Piece world is intricately crafted and detailed. It uses classic shonen themes to weave a rich fantasy narrative, filled with emotional and relatable characters. Oda meticulously constructs the storyline, allowing for seamless transitions as the Straw Hat crew journeys from one adventure to the next. Even amidst the wild and unpredictable, the story maintains coherence and depth without veering into randomness.
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