As the holidays approach, the time to buy gifts has come, and we have recommendations for your manga and anime-loving friends and family. Whether they are interested in fantasy, romance, or horror, there are great options for all manga lovers.
Attack on Titan by Hajime Isayama
One of the most successful anime series of all time, Attack on Titan, by Hajime Isayama, originated from a phenomenal manga. This series follows Eren Jager and his quest for knowledge and survival in a world filled with man-eating Titans. It’s a fantastic choice for fans of horror and mystery. Attack on Titan comprises 34 engaging volumes, so consider picking up the first couple to help start your loved ones’ new collection.
Fairy Tail by Hiro Mashima
A great option for fans of classic shonen anime, such as One Piece and Naruto, is Fairy Tail by Hiro Mashima, a manga series about a guild of wizards that go on fantastical adventures. This manga follows Natsu, Lucy, and their many guild companions as they journey across the land and save the world. This is a perfect fit for anyone you know who’s interested in these classic-style manga.
Fullmetal Alchemist by Hiromu Arakawa
Fullmetal Alchemist, by Hiromu Arakawa, is an action-packed and emotional story about brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric. In this manga, you explore the brothers’ mistakes and their journey to redemption. The combination of mystery, alchemy, family, and action makes this a standout choice for shonen manga fans.
Parasyte by Hitoshi Iwaaki
Is your friend or family member a fan of aliens? Then, Hitoshi Iwaaki’s Parasyte is the recommendation for your loved one. Parasyte is a story about Shinichi Izumi, who one day wakes up with a parasitic alien that takes over his right hand. This is a great option for someone who wants to read an interesting story about mysterious aliens.
Uzumaki by Junji Ito
One of Junji Ito’s most popular works, Uzumaki is the entry on this list for serious fans of horror and the disturbing. Uzumaki, meaning spiral in Japanese, follows Kirie Goshima and her boyfriend, Shuichi Saito, and their odd experiences in the small town of Kurôzu-Cho. What starts as weird coincidences centered around spirals quickly devolves into terrifying encounters with the other townspeople and the supernatural. Read about Kirie and Shuchi’s descent into madness in this psychological horror manga.
Haikyuu by Haruichi Furudate
Haikyuu, by Haruichi Furudate, is a sports manga centered around volleyball. At first, you may think it would be difficult to portray a sport in print form, but this manga keeps the action and intensity rolling while delivering an impactful story. Follow Hinata Shoyo, along with a big roster of other fun characters, as they explore their love of volleyball. Pick up this manga today, and discover the power of friendship in this feel-good manga.
Horimiya by HERO x Hiroki Adachi
Looking for an option for your romance-loving friend or family member? Horimiya, by HERO and Hiroki Adachi, is a slice-of-life romance that follows the love story of high schoolers Kyoko Hori and Izumi Miyamura. Read this manga and watch how Hori and Miyamura’s unlikely friendship blossoms into a romantic relationship. The beautiful art and comedic characters are sure to make this a great gift for fans of light-hearted romance manga.
Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku by Fujita
An otaku is a person who spends their free time intensely focused on their nerdy interests, specifically gaming, manga/anime, cosplay, and idols. Fujita’s Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku is a slice-of-life manga that follows Narumi and Hirotaka, two office workers who are deeply devoted to their otaku interests. Despite their obsessions, the two attempt to enter a relationship, and what ensues is an awkward (but fun) love story about accepting oneself. This manga is a superb choice to give to the otaku in your life this holiday season.
My Senpai Is Annoying by Shiro Manta
My Senpai Is Annoying, by Shiro Manta, is a workplace comedy manga with a touch of romance. In this manga, you read about Futaba Igarashi, a woman of surprisingly small stature, and her experiences with her annoying yet endearing senpai, or superior, Harumi Takeda. It’s a top pick if you want to give a light and fun manga to your loved ones.
Sweat and Soap by Kintetsu Yamada
Another excellent pick for fans of the romance genre is Sweat and Soap, by Kintetsu Yamada, which tells the blossoming love story between Asako Yaeshima and Kotaro Natori. Unlike other romance manga, this is not a slow burn, so if you are buying for someone a bit impatient, this is the recommendation for you.
Regardless of genre, this list is sure to have something for every manga-lover that you plan to get a gift for this holiday season. Whether you are adding to their collection or starting a new one, your friend or family member is sure to value getting a new manga from you this year.
If you’re looking for more recommendations, check out our article, The Best 10 Manga to Gift a Beginner.
Interested in more manga reads? Check out our Bookshop bookshelf, Illustrious Comics, Manga, and Graphic Novels.
