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With thousands of manga titles out there, and new ones being published all the time, it can be hard to figure out which series are truly worth the time investment. This list, which highlights the best manga of all time, can help you out on your quest to find good manga.
You've probably heard of some of the best manga out there, like Naruto, Dragon Ball, and My Hero Academia. But there are some manga on this list that might have slipped under your radar, like Showa: A History of Japan and Wandering Son.
If you see something on the list that you love, vote it up. This will help other would-be manga readers find their next great read.
The Berserk manga, first released in 1989, is a dark fantasy epic widely regarded as one of the greatest manga of all time, crafted by the talented Kentaro Miura. It is revered for its intricate storytelling, deeply complex characters, and stunningly detailed artwork. The narrative follows the journey of Guts, a mercenary with a tragic past, as he battles against insurmountable odds in a grim medieval world plagued by demonic forces and corrupt politics. What sets Berserk apart is not just its mature themes and relentless exploration of the human psyche but also Miura's ability to weave a tale that is as emotionally resonant as it is visually spectacular. The visceral action, coupled with the manga's exploration of themes related to isolation, camaraderie, and the nature of humanity itself, has cemented Berserk in the pantheon of classic manga, leaving a profound impact on readers and influencing countless other works in the genre.
The Vagabond manga, which first graced the pages of Weekly Morning magazine in 1998, is revered as one of the greatest manga masterpieces, brought to life by the esteemed artist Takehiko Inoue. This rich narrative, adapted from Eiji Yoshikawa's novel "Musashi," chronicles the legendary journey of Miyamoto Musashi, a historical figure who grows from a wild and ruthless swordsman into a revered samurai. Vagabond is celebrated for its profound character development, philosophical depth, and the sublime artistry that captures the beauty and brutality of feudal Japan. Every stroke of Inoue's brush tells a story, infusing the series with raw emotion and a sense of realism rarely achieved in the medium. The manga's exploration of themes such as the meaning of life, the pursuit of excellence, and the struggle to find inner peace amid the chaos of the world has resonated deeply with readers, earning Vagabond a place among the most esteemed works in manga history.
The Vinland Saga manga, launched in 2005 by creator Makoto Yukimura, is a gripping tale of war, exploration, and redemption, widely considered one of the greatest manga series. This historical epic transports readers to the Viking Age, following the life of Thorfinn Karlsefni, a young warrior caught in the cycle of violence and revenge, who ultimately seeks a peaceful and purposeful existence. Vinland Saga is noted for its well-researched portrayal of the era and its nuanced character development. Yukimura's depiction of the brutality of war and the intricacies of Viking culture is as educational as it is enthralling. The manga's stunning artwork, with meticulously crafted battle scenes and atmospheric landscapes, animates the saga with visceral intensity. Beyond its historical narrative, Vinland Saga stands out for its exploration of philosophical and moral dilemmas, examining the human cost of war and the struggle towards achieving one's utopia. These elements weave together to form a story that is not only rich in action and adventure but also in contemplative depth, justifying its acclaim and consideration as a monumental work in manga literature.
The Monster manga, penned by the acclaimed mangaka Naoki Urasawa, first appeared before avid readers in 1994, and has since been heralded as one of the greatest manga series ever created. This psychological thriller set in Europe weaves an intricate narrative following Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a Japanese neurosurgeon who becomes entangled in a chilling web of murder and mystery after his life-altering decision to save a critically wounded child. The depth and complexity of Monster's plot, combined with its morally ambiguous characters and suspenseful pacing, place it at the zenith of storytelling within the manga medium. Urasawa's skilled storytelling is matched by his clear and expressive art, which perfectly encapsulates the tension and drama of the story. Monster tackles profound questions about the nature of evil and the value of human life, making it not only an engrossing read but also a thought-provoking work that challenges its audience. It's the manga's ability to maintain this high level of psychological intrigue and narrative finesse that cements its status as a seminal work in the world of manga.
The Fullmetal Alchemist manga, created by Hiromu Arakawa, first captivated readers in 2001 and has since been enshrined as one of the all-time greatest manga series. This alchemical blend of adventure, steampunk aesthetics, and deeply woven moral quandaries chronicles the journey of the Elric brothers, Edward and Alphonse, as they seek the Philosopher's Stone to recover what they lost in a forbidden alchemy experiment. Arakawa's masterful storytelling is characterized by richly layered characters and a tightly plotted narrative that explores themes of sacrifice, power, the value of life, and the consequences of hubris. The manga's ability to seamlessly integrate action-packed sequences with heartfelt moments and philosophical introspection gives it a profound resonance that transcends its genre. Fullmetal Alchemist also stands out for its unique and expansive world-building, which draws readers into its history and politics. The series concluded in 2010 with a satisfying and thematic ending, cementing its legacy as a work that skillfully examines the human condition, making it a cornerstone in the pantheon of manga.
The Death Note manga, created by writer Tsugumi Ohba and artist Takeshi Obata, premiered in 2003 and quickly ascended to the ranks of legendary manga series. This psychological thriller follows the cerebral duel between Light Yagami, a high school student who stumbles upon a supernatural notebook that allows him to kill anyone by writing their name, and L, a reclusive detective determined to halt his vigilante justice. Death Note's engrossing plot is driven by intricate mind games, moral complexities, and an exploration of justice and power that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The stark monochrome artwork amplifies the tension and drama, capturing the descent into the moral abyss with chilling precision. The series' thought-provoking narrative raises profound questions about the value of human life and the gray zones of good and evil, setting it apart as a work that not only entertains but also invites deep philosophical discourse. Its tight pacing, compelling characters, and the overarching cat-and-mouse chase contribute to Death Note being hailed as one of the greatest manga of all time.
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Hunter × Hunter
The Hunter x Hunter manga, crafted by Yoshihiro Togashi, first enchanted readers in 1998 and has since stood out as one of the most intricate and beloved series in the manga domain, earning its accolades as one of the greatest of all time. Renowned for its complex characters, sophisticated world-building, and the depth of its storytelling, Hunter x Hunter narrates the adventures of young Gon Freecss as he seeks to become a Hunter and find his father, a legendary figure within the universe Togashi created. The series is distinguished by its cerebral approach to conflict resolution, often involving strategic battles that emphasize wits over brute strength, setting it aside from traditional shonen tropes. Themes such as friendship, determination, and the moral ambiguity of humanity are explored in great detail, giving the narrative a philosophical edge. Togashi's commitment to character development and plot intricacy, coupled with the manga's unique power system known as "Nen," contributes to the fervent admiration from its fans. Hunter x Hunter's ongoing legacy is a testament to its exceptional quality, despite the hiatuses, sealing its status as a quintessential manga that has continually redefined the parameters of the genre.
- An elastic man searches for the elusive pirate treasure, One Piece.
The Attack on Titan manga, launched in 2009 by Hajime Isayama, has taken its place as a monumental work within the manga world, earning widespread acclaim as one of the greatest manga series of all time. This dark fantasy set in a world besieged by colossal Titans follows Eren Yeager and his friends as they join the fight for humanity's survival, only to uncover deep conspiracies and the complex history that fuels their dystopian society. Attack on Titan distinguishes itself with a compelling narrative that deftly combines intense action sequences, intricate political intrigue, and a relentless examination of moral ambiguity. Isayama's bold storytelling is characterized by high stakes, unexpected twists, and characters that grapple with the harsh realities of war, freedom, and the human condition. The manga's profound impact is further underscored by its gorgeously detailed art, particularly in the depiction of the titanic encounters, which elevates the sense of horror and thrill. With its conclusion in 2021, Attack on Titan solidified its status as a groundbreaking series that pushes the boundaries of the medium, leaving a lasting legacy on its genre and fans alike.
The JoJo's Bizarre Adventure manga, penned by the imaginative Hirohiko Araki, first hit the shelves in 1987 and remains one of the longest-running and most distinctive series in the medium, earning its spot as one of the greatest mangas of all time. Known for its unique art style, memorable characters, and a plot that spans generations, the series follows the supernatural conflicts of the Joestar family across various eras, each arc centered on a member nicknamed "JoJo." What sets JoJo's Bizarre Adventure apart is Araki's creative storytelling, which incorporates a mix of action, horror, and comedy, all underpinned by an overarching theme of the battle between good and evil. The manga is also celebrated for its innovative use of "Stands"—a manifestation of a character's fighting spirit, each with unique abilities that led to unpredictable and strategic battles. JoJo's Bizarre Adventure's impact on pop culture, with its iconic poses and fashion-forward characters, alongside its daring narrative choices, makes it a pioneering series that has influenced numerous other works in manga and anime. Its enduring popularity and evolving storyline over the decades underscore its significance within the world of manga.
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20th Century Boys
20th Century Boys is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Naoki Urasawa. It was originally serialized in Big Comic Spirits from 1999 to 2006, with the 249 chapters published into 22 tankōbon volumes by Shogakukan. In January 2007, a sixteen chapter continuation titled 21st Century Boys ran until July, and was gathered into two tankōbon. It tells the story of Kenji Endō and his friends, who notice a cult-leader known only as "Friend" is out to destroy the world, and it has something to do with their childhood memories. The series makes many references to classic rock music, its title being taken from T.Rex's song "20th Century Boy", as well as a number of manga and anime from the 1960s-1970s. A trilogy of live-action film adaptations, directed by Yukihiko Tsutsumi, were released in 2008 and 2009. The manga was licensed and released in English by Viz Media from 2009 to 2012, and distributed in Australasia by Madman Entertainment. The films were also licensed by Viz in North America and by 4Digital Media in the United Kingdom. 20th Century Boys has received critical acclaim and has 36 million copies in circulation. The One Punch Man manga, originally created as a webcomic by the artist ONE in 2009 and later adapted with stunningly redrawn artwork by Yusuke Murata, has emerged as one of the most unique and compelling series in the manga landscape. Reputed as one of the greatest of its kind, the story subverts classic superhero tropes by following Saitama, a hero so powerful that he can defeat any adversary with a single punch, leading to an unexpected existential crisis due to his sheer invincibility. The series is both a parody of and homage to the shonen genre, poking fun at its conventions while still crafting exhilarating battle sequences and a diverse cast of characters, each with their distinct designs and personalities. One Punch Man is lauded for its blend of humor, action, and philosophical undertones that explore the meaning of heroism and the search for challenge in a world where the protagonist's strength renders conflicts trivial. The manga's ability to oscillate between satirical comedy and deeper storytelling, all while presenting top-tier visual artistry, cements One Punch Man as an innovative and refreshing take on the superhero narrative and a milestone in the world of manga.
- 13In 1988 the Japanese government drops an atomic bomb on Tokyo after ESP experiments on children go awry. In 2019, 31 years after the nuking of the city, Kaneda, a bike gang leader, tries to save his friend Tetsuo from a secret government project. He battles anti-government activists, greedy politicians, irresponsible scientists and a powerful military leader until Tetsuo's supernatural powers suddenly manifest. A final battle is fought in Tokyo Olympiad exposing the experiment's secrets.
- Goku and Bluma begin a quest to find the seven Dragon Balls.
- 15Naruto Uzumaki is is determined to develop his ninja skills.
- 16Ichigo Kurosaki becomes a Soul Reaper.
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Goodnight Punpun
- Tokyo Ghoul is a 2011 Japanese dark fantasy manga series by Sui Ishida. The series is set in an alternate reality where ghouls, individuals who can only survive by eating human flesh, live among the normal humans in secret, hiding their true nature to evade pursuit from the authorities.
- A high school freshman joins the basketball team to impress his crush and becomes a star.
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Uzumaki
Uzumaki is a seinen horror manga series written and illustrated by Junji Ito. Appearing as a serial in the weekly manga magazine Big Comic Spirits from 1998 to 1999, the chapters were compiled into three bound volumes by Shogakukan and published from August 1998 to September 1999. In March 2000, Shogakukan released an omnibus edition, followed by a second omnibus version in August 2010. In North America, Viz Media serialized an English-language translation of the series in its monthly magazine Pulp from February 2001 to August 2002. Viz Media then published the volumes from October 2001 to October 2002, with a re-release from October 2007 to February 2008, and published a hardcover omnibus edition in October 2013. The series tells the story of the citizens of Kurôzu-cho, a fictional city which is plagued by a supernatural curse involving spirals. The story for Uzumaki originated when Ito attempted to write a story about people living in a very long row house, and he was inspired to use a spiral shape to achieve the desired length. - Mob, a school boy blessed with supernatural powers, leads an emotionally disturbed life.
- Teenagers pilot giant fighting machines to stop otherworldly monsters from wiping out humanity.
- Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story (Studio Gallop, 1996), also known as Rurouni Kenshin and Samurai X, is a Japanese action anime series based on the manga by Nobuhiro Watsuki. A wandering samurai with a past embarks on a quest to uphold justice and help the innocent using his sword, but slay no man.
- Betrayed and killed, a teenager gets revived as Chainsaw Man, a soul with a devil's heart.
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Pluto
- A youth begins a quest to fight demons and save his sister after his family is slaughtered.
- When a professional boxer introduces Ippo to the world of boxing, his life changes.
- A teenager and an alien parasite work together to survive their unique circumstances.
- After being bullied mercilessly, a grade school student transfers to another school. Years later, one of her former tormentors sets out to make amends.
- 30Gintama (Sunrise, 2006) is a Japanese action-comedy anime series based on the manga by Hideaki Sorachi. Set in Edo, which has been conquered by aliens named Amanto, a samurai named Gintoki works as an odd job freelancer alongside his friends Shinpachi and Kagura in order to pay the monthly rent.
- An ex-biker with street smarts becomes a high-school teacher.
- Assassination Classroom is a Japanese comic science fiction manga series written and illustrated by Yūsei Matsui. The series follows the daily lives of an extremely powerful octopus-like creature who also works as a junior high homeroom teacher, and his students dedicated to the task of assassinating him to prevent Earth from being destroyed.
- 33A tale of youth and volleyball.
- Young orphans raised for a sinister purpose look for a way to escape from their evil caretaker.
- 35Two friends are recruited to hunt down aliens.
- Fist of the North Star (Fuji TV, 1984) is a Japanese post-apocalyptic action anime series based on the manga by Buronson and illustrated by Tetsuo Hara from Toei Animation studio. Set in a post-apocalyptic world that has been destroyed by a nuclear war, Kenshiro, the successor of a deadly martial art style known as Hokuto Shinken, dedicates his life to fighting against the various ravagers who threaten the lives of the weak and innocent.
- Far in the future, after an apocalyptic conflict has devastated much of the world's ecosystem, the few surviving humans live in scattered semi-hospitable environments within what has become a "toxic jungle." Young Nausicaä lives in the arid Valley of the Wind and can communicate with the massive insects that populate the dangerous jungle. Under the guidance of the pensive veteran warrior, Lord Yupa, Nausicaä works to bring peace back to the ravaged planet.
- 38Inuyasha (Sunrise, 2000), also known as Inuyasha: A Feudal Fairy Tale, is a Japanese fantasy anime series based on the manga series by Rumiko Takahashi. A teenage girl periodically travels back in time to feudal Japan to help a young half-demon recover the shards of a jewel of great power.
- A ronin is cursed with immortality until he can atone for his crimes by slaying 1,000 evil men.
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Battle Angel Alita
Battle Angel Alita is a manga series created by Yukito Kishiro in 1990 and originally published in Shueisha's Business Jump magazine. Alita, a cyborg, has lost all memories and is found in a garbage heap by a cybernetics doctor who rebuilds and takes care of her. - Despite being born powerless in a super-powered world, Izuku never gives up on becoming a hero.
- In a world of magic, two orphan boys with different powers strive to become the greatest wizard.
- Follows Maka Alburn and her adventures as a student at the Death Weapons Meister Academy.
- 45Mushishi (Fuji TV, 2004) is a Japanese supernatural fantasy anime series based on the manga by Yuki Urushibara from Artland animation studio. A man named Ginko dedicates himself to keeping people protected from supernatural creatures called Mushi.
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Devilman
- Made in Abyss (AT-X, 2017) is a Japanese fantasy anime series based on the manga by Akihito Tsukushi from Kinema Citrus animation studio. Riko, a young orphan, finds and befriends a humanoid robot Reg and descends with it into the titular "Abyss", that leads deep into the Earth, in hopes of finding her mother.
- 48Two girls with the same name meet on a train to Tokyo.
- A schoolgirl and her friends transform into powerful heroes to battle the forces of evil.
- A 17-year-old gang member witnesses a man dying and tries to find the meaning behind his last words.
- An ace detective who has been turned into a child adopts a new identity to solve various mysteries.
- Piano prodigy Kousei Arima had a mental breakdown after his mother died and cannot hear his piano.
- 53Ranma ½ (FNS, 1989) is a Japanese martial arts romantic comedy anime series based on the manga by Rumiko Takahashi from Studio Deen. Ranma Saotome, a young martial artist, falls into a cursed springs while training which curses him to become a girl when splashed with cold water, while hot water changes him back into a boy.
- Orphan Tohru Honda moves in with a classmate and his cursed family.
- Grand Blue (MBS, 2018) is a Japanese slice of life comedy anime series based on the manga written by Kenji Inoue and illustrated by Kimitake Yoshioka from Zero-G animation studio. A college student spends his year at the seaside town of Izu with high hopes and dreams about having the ideal college experience.
- A high school student with powerful psychic abilities tries to live an ordinary life.
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Lone Wolf and Cub
- Lucy Heartfilia joins the Fairy Tail wizards' guild and partners with Natsu Dragneel.
- Yugi and his friends play a card-battling game called Duel Monsters with roots in ancient Egypt.
- Astro Boy, known in Japan by its original name Mighty Atom, is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Osamu Tezuka from 1952 to 1968. The story follows the adventures of a robot named Astro Boy and a selection of other characters. The manga was adapted into the first popular animated Japanese television series that embodied the aesthetic that later became familiar worldwide as anime. After enjoying success abroad, Astro Boy was remade in the 1980s as New Mighty Atom, known as Astroboy in other countries, and again in 2003. In November 2007, he was named Japan's envoy for overseas safety. An American computer-animated film based on the original manga series by Tezuka was released on October 23, 2009.
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I Am a Hero
A man witnesses a fatal traffic accident on his way home from work, and the victim is clearly killed on impact. A moment later, when the corpse stands up and walks away, it could be a hallucination or something far more extraordinary. - A highly skilled but unlicensed surgeon with a mysterious past aids patients in desperate need.
- Elfen Lied is a 2002 Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Lynn Okamoto. Rejected by humans, teenage mutant girl Lucy seeks revenge against those who wronged her.
- Haruhi is recruited into the Ouran Host Club after breaking a vase.
- Takemichi Hanagaki learns that his former high school girlfriend, Hinaata, has died.
- Princess Yona makes a new life after fleeing the palace when the man she loves kills her father.
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Pokemon Adventures
- Bakemonogatari (Tokyo MX, 2009) is a Japanese supernatural psychological anime series based on the light novel series titled "Monogatari" written by Nisio Isin and illustrated by Vofan from Shaft animation studio. Although there are still traces of the brief period he became a vampire, third-year high school student Koyomi Araragi is human again and becomes involved in other students' lives seeking to help them.
- Historia de un equipo colegial de football americano.
- Ryuko Matoi transfers to a new high school to find her father's murderer.
- Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin is a manga written and illustrated by Yoshikazu Yasuhiko. It is a retelling of the story from the 1979 anime television series Mobile Suit Gundam, of which Yasuhiko was the original character designer. An anime adaptation of the manga, focusing on the stories of Casval Rem Deikun and his sister Artesia, prodused by Sunrise began releasing in 2015. Yasuhiko is the chief director of the adaptation, with Sunrise veteran Takashi Imanishi as director, and Katsuyuki Sumisawa as the scriptwriter.
- After being abandoned by her father, a girl becomes a deity.
- A student council president secretly works as a waitress in a french maid uniform part-time.
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Cells At Work
- After hearing a fake voicemail message by Taiga, Yasuko arrives at Ryūji's grandparents house, where Ryūji awaits. Yasuko makes up with her parents, and tells Ryūji that his father ran off while she was still pregnant, and gave birth to him despite protest. Ryūji decides that he and Taiga should not run away, and instead get married with everyone's approval. They have a rehearsal wedding where they share their first kisses. They all go home, but Taiga, after listening to her mother’s exasperated voicemails, decides to go back to her because she does not want to run away from her problems. Minori is not happy that Ryūji let her leave, but he has come to terms with everything. Taiga sends everyone a mail with a picture of the night sky and a single star, and Minori thinks that this is supposed to encourage them to do their best. Everyone gets together to send a group picture to Taiga. Over a year later during their high school graduation ceremony, Taiga comes back. Ryūji finds her in a locker in the classroom, and he says that he loves her at last. She gets flustered and responds by headbutting him.
- 77In a world where beasts coexist, a gentle wolf awakens to his predatory urges.
- Kiyoshi, a new student, is sent to Hachimitsu Academy's prison, where harsh punishment awaits.
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History's Strongest Disciple Kenichi!
Cornered by Kenichi's unexpected reaction, Ryuto utilizes a dangerous technique to rise up his power beyond his body's limits, and the reason for his grudge on him is revealed. As their fight comes close to a conclusion, Kenichi continues determined to win, not only for his own sake, but for his childhood friend's too. - 80Golgo 13 is a manga series written and illustrated by Takao Saito, published in Shogakukan's Big Comic magazine since October 1968. In 1975, the manga won the 21st Shogakukan Manga Award for general manga. The series follows the titular character, a professional assassin for hire. Golgo 13 is the oldest manga still in publication, and its tankōbon edition has the third highest number of volumes. It has sold over 200 million copies in various formats, including compilation books, making it the fourth best-selling manga series in history. It has been adapted into two live-action feature films, an anime film, an original video animation, an anime television series and five video games.
- A loner shogi player works to grow as a player as he develops relationships with those around him.
- Keitaro's grandmother employs him as a caretaker of her inn that serves as a female dormitory.
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Natsume's Book of Friends
Natsume returns the names of the yokai from his grandmother's book to their rightful owners. - Paradise Kiss, abbreviated to "ParaKiss", is a manga series written and illustrated by Ai Yazawa. It appeared as a serial in the Japanese fashion magazine Zipper. Shodensha collected the chapters into five volumes. The series has also been adapted into a 12 episode anime series, produced by Aniplex and Studio Madhouse, and which was aired in Japan on Fuji TV's Noitamina programming block and on the anime television network, Animax, who have broadcast the series across its respective networks worldwide, including Japan, Southeast Asia and East Asia. This comic and anime are widely popular not only in Japan, but in many countries around the world. The Paradise Kiss manga and anime has been translated and dubbed or subtitled from Japanese to at least ten different languages, Vietnamese, Chinese, Korean, French, Italian, Polish, Thai, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Cantonese and English. The English version was published by Vertical, Inc.. Paradise Kiss occurs in the same universe as Yazawa's previous work, Gokinjo Monogatari, which has not yet been published in English.
- When Ryu Yamada shares an accidental kiss with Urara Shiraishi, the two end up in a body swap.
- Kyouko went with her childhood friend, Shou to Tokyo to pursue his dream of becoming an idol. Despite she is supporting him, Shou deceive her. Kyouko vows to get her revenge by defeating him in the entertainment world too.
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Showa: A History of Japan
- Dragon hunter Ragna joins forces with the mysterious Crimson to fight the dragons.
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Our Dreams at Dusk
- A teenage boy from Japan becomes the unwitting familiar of a klutzy magic student in another world.
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Bambino!
Bambino! is a Japanese cooking manga written and illustrated by Tetsuji Sekiya. The manga has been serialized in Shogakukan's seinen magazine Big Comic Spirits. As of February 2009, Shogakukan has published 14 bound volumes of the manga. It received the 2008 Shogakukan Manga Award for seinen/general manga along with Takeshi Natsuhara's and Kuromaru's Kurosagi. NTV broadcast the live-action TV drama from April 18, 2007 to June 27, 2007. It was broadcast in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico by TV Japan, an affiliate of NHK, from January to March 2008. - 92
Namaiki Zakari
