Introduction
Here, we have curated a list of the 15 best short manga series to read in the year 2023. These manga series are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on the readers, despite their brief length. Each series listed below offers a unique and compelling storyline that can be enjoyed in a single sitting or two.
The first on our list is ‘Kokoro Connect,’ which follows five friends who find themselves swapping bodies without warning. Second on our list is ‘A Silent Voice,’ where the protagonist struggles with profound regret after relentlessly bullying his deaf classmate until she transferred schools. Other notable mentions include ‘Orange,’ ‘Fruits Basket,’ and ‘Death Note‘.
Among these one-shot manga, intriguing stories such as “I Want To Eat Your Pancreas” and “All You Need is Kill” can also be found. These thought-provoking tales offer a mix of both heartwarming and intense moments that will keep you hooked until the very last page.
If you’re seeking a quick yet unforgettable reading experience, then this is precisely what you’re searching for! Take your pick from our list of fifteen gripping, short manga series – each one promises an excellent and memorable journey into another world! Get ready for a quick but satisfying read with these 15 bite-sized manga gems!
Top 15 Best Short Manga Series to Read (2023)
Manga enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the release of the top 15 short manga series to read in 2023. These series promise to engage and excite readers with their captivating storylines and visually stunning illustrations. The following four points provide insight into what makes these series the best of the best:
- engaging characters with relatable and intriguing personalities,
- unique and creative plotlines that keep readers on the edge of their seats,
- impeccable artwork that complements and enhances the story’s content, and
- concise story arcs that leave readers feeling fulfilled.
For those looking for a quick manga fix, these series are a must-read. As you delve into the pages, you will discover unique details that have not yet been mentioned, adding to the overall enjoyment of the reading experience. Interestingly, manga’s history dates back to the mid-1900s, where it initially gained popularity among the Japanese population. Over the years, it has branched out globally, with millions of fans worldwide. The genre has evolved, with different variations introduced to suit a broader audience. Today, manga is a thriving art form that continues to captivate audiences young and old alike.
Warning: May cause sudden cravings for fruit and emotionally-charged moments that make you question everything.
“Fruits Basket” by Natsuki Takaya
This manga, written by Natsuki Takaya, follows the story of Tohru Honda and her encounters with the Sohma family, whose members transform into animals of the Chinese Zodiac when hugged by people outside their family.
With its unique storyline and dynamic characters, “Fruits Basket” is a must-read for anyone looking for a heartwarming tale filled with laughter, tears and unexpected twists. The manga has also been adapted into various anime series and has garnered a massive fan following across the world.
Tohru’s journey is not just about her relationship with the Sohma family but also about discovering herself in the process. Along with a solid portrayal of mental illness struggles, she navigates through love triangles and deep-seated emotions while comforting others around her. Despite its light-hearted nature at times, “Fruits Basket” imbues serious themes such as social anxiety, depression, grief and parental neglect wrapped in humor.
Despite ending over a decade ago after 23 volumes, “Fruits Basket” continues to have relevance even today due to its ability to resonate deeply with readers. From live-action adaptations to an official digital continuation in 2019 called “Fruits Basket Another,” this timeless classic manages to capture hearts wherever it goes – reinforcing its position as one of the best manga series ever written.
If you’re feeling murderous, but don’t want to actually commit a crime, Death Note is the perfect manga series for you.
“Death Note” by Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata
The short manga series about a high school student who gains power over life and death using a mysterious supernatural notebook, created by the collaborative efforts of Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata, has become highly popular among readers. The complex psychology of the main character and the tension-filled battle between him and his arch-nemesis have captivated audiences worldwide.
Numerous aspects make this manga series stand out, such as its intricate plotlines and well-executed twists, unique characters, masterful art style with detailed visuals, and overall thought-provoking themes. Protagonist Light Yagami’s descent into megalomania while trying to create a utopian society through vigilante justice is both disturbing and fascinating.
This series has also won numerous awards and accolades in Japan and across the globe. It spawned an anime adaptation, live-action films, TV dramas, video games, merchandise and inspired countless creators around the world.
Overall, “Death Note” illustrates how powerful storytelling can be when executed by talented individuals who mesh their respective skills. This gripping thriller leaves readers on edge up until its climactic conclusion.
Before the Titans fell, they took some time to brush up on their dental hygiene in this prequel manga series.
“Attack on Titan: Before the Fall” by Ryo Suzukaze and Satoshi Shiki
This manga series by Ryo Suzukaze and Satoshi Shiki explores the origins of one of Attack on Titan’s most iconic characters. “Before the Fall” delves into the backstory of Kuklo, a young man born without the ability to transform into a Titan in a world where Titans roam freely. The series follows his journey as he discovers his own strengths and confronts the harsh realities of his world. With intense battles and intricate plot twists, “Before the Fall” is a must-read for fans of Attack on Titan.
Additionally, the series features stunning artwork that breathes life into its vivid characters, allowing readers to become immersed in this dark and dangerous world. The unique narrative perspective also offers fresh insight into the overarching story, making it more than just another spin-off manga. For those who want to deepen their understanding of Attack on Titan’s complex universe, “Before the Fall” is an essential read.
Interestingly enough, Suzukaze originally worked as a novelist before dipping her toes into manga writing with “Before the Fall”. The collaboration between her literary storytelling skills and Shiki’s artistic prowess has resulted in an exceptional blend that captivates readers from start to finish. It is no wonder that this short manga series ranks among some of the best out there today.
Who knew that escaping a demonic orphanage could be so thrilling? The Promised Neverland delivers on both heart-pounding suspense and questionable childcare practices.
“The Promised Neverland” by Kaiu Shirai and Posuka Demizu
Kaiu Shirai and Posuka Demizu‘s work, which goes by the name “The Promised Neverland,” is a short manga series worth considering. With its gripping storyline and well-developed characters, it offers readers a rare find in the manga world. The story follows three orphans who make a chilling discovery about their domain and go on to challenge established norms. If you are looking for something out of the ordinary, then this one is sure to please.
This manga has garnered quite some attention for its unique take on psychological horror and fantasy genres. The writers incorporate creative plot twists that keep readers hooked until the end. Notably, the artwork is top-notch, adding appeal to the story’s sinister undertones.
A notable aspect of this manga is how it handles moral dilemmas and ethical questions about survival amidst chaos. The occasional philosophical dialogue peppered throughout adds depth to the narrative.
The Promised Neverland sets itself apart from other similar works with how it manages to push boundaries without losing sight of character development or relationship dynamics. Although not as long as most series, it packs a lot of punch in its short lifespan.
If you’re still on the fence about whether or not to dive into this story, perhaps consider this: A friend of mine who usually dislikes anything remotely close to horror enjoyed it immensely and was disappointed when they finished reading it – that’s how captivating “The Promised Neverland” truly is.
Haikyuu!! serves up volleyball action hotter than a flaming spike and characters more lovable than your own teammates (ouch, sorry not sorry).
“Haikyuu!!” by Haruichi Furudate
Moreover, the development of each character’s backstory adds depth to the story and enhances the emotional impact of each victory and loss. The manga also explores various aspects of volleyball techniques to keep readers invested beyond the typical sports manga.
In addition, for those who enjoy anime adaptations, “Haikyuu!!” has a well-received anime series that covers the manga’s storyline in great detail. Overall, “Haikyuu!!” is a fantastic reading recommendation for fans of sports or shonen genres.
For those interested in similar short manga series, consider trying out “Kimi ni Todoke” by Karuho Shiina for a heartwarming romance or “Fullmetal Alchemist” by Hiromu Arakawa for an epic shonen adventure. Both series feature intricate character development and memorable moments that will leave a lasting impression on readers.
Yotsuba&!: Because sometimes all you need is a little girl, her dad, and their quirky adventures to make your day.
“Yotsuba&!” by Kiyohiko Azuma
This manga series by Kiyohiko Azuma depicts the life of an eccentric and energetic young girl named Yotsuba. The story follows her adventures as she interacts with her neighbors and explores the world around her, experiencing everyday moments with curiosity and joy.
Through whimsical storytelling and charming illustrations, “Yotsuba&!” has captured the hearts of readers worldwide. Its optimistic tone celebrates the small wonders of life and reminds us to cherish every moment.
Notably, “Yotsuba&!” is a standout among short manga series due to its relatable characters, delightful humor, and heartwarming themes. It is a must-read for those seeking a lighthearted escape from the stresses of everyday life.
This series has become so beloved that it has even inspired real-life events, such as cosplay gatherings and even Yotsuba-themed cafes in Japan. It just goes to show how much impact a well-told story can have on our lives.
Better stock up on tissues before diving into “Orange” – not for crying, but for wiping the tears of joy from your eyes at how good it is.
“Orange” by Ichigo Takano
With its mesmerizing storyline and beautiful artwork, the manga penned by Ichigo Takano tugs at readers’ heartstrings. This piece tells a tale of regrets and second chances as Naho receives letters from her future self instructing her how to handle life and love. We witness her struggling to make those changes in real-time and discovering new facets of herself along the way.
The characters have been crafted to evoke empathy from readers, conveying relatable family & school dynamics. The depiction of grief is particularly poignant in this short series, making it an emotional read for many. This beautifully illustrated manga is one of the most impactful short series that you can read in 2023.
Ichigo Takano’s inspiration for “Orange” came through her personal experience with depression when she was a mere teenager. Through this series, she candidly talks about mental health issues while presenting hope and resilience as viable outcomes.
Put your ears to rest and let your eyes do the talking with ‘A Silent Voice‘ – a manga series that speaks volumes without a single word.
“A Silent Voice” by Yoshitoki Oima
Yoshitoki Oima’s impressive “A Silent Voice” manga series explores the life of a deaf girl who is bullied by her classmates and the journey towards redemption. The intricacies of human emotions and relationships are portrayed in a delicate yet captivating manner.
The plot development and character arcs are thoughtfully crafted, providing insight into the struggles and growth of each character. The manga also confronts issues such as mental health, forgiveness, empathy, and self-acceptance.
“A Silent Voice” stands out through its vivid illustrations that bring to life every detail of the story through intricate paneling. The high-quality artwork serves as a testimony to Oima’s creative talent.
It is worth noting that the overarching theme of “A Silent Voice” focuses on empathy for those around us. It reiterates that simple gestures like kindness and understanding can go miles in impacting others’ lives positively.
Pro Tip: Dive deep into this heartwarming manga series for meaningful takeaways concerning inclusivity and mental wellness. Komi-san’s social anxiety is relatable, but her attempts at communication will have you banging your head against the wall (in a good way).
“Komi-san wa Komyushou desu” by Tomohito Oda
One highly entertaining and insightful short manga series to read is the work of Tomohito Oda. It explores the story of Komi-san, a shy and introverted girl who struggles with communication and socializing with her peers. The series follows her journey as she navigates through various social situations, often with the help of new friends. The manga highlights the difficulties of fitting in and finding one’s voice while also incorporating humor and light-hearted moments.
The character development in this series is exceptional, providing readers with insight into Komi-san’s inner world as she tries to break out of her shell. The artwork is also skillfully done, conveying emotions effectively and adding depth to each scene.
Moreover, the themes explored in this manga are relatable to many people, making it an exceptional addition to any reading list.
Pro Tip: Give yourself enough time to enjoy each chapter fully; you’ll appreciate the story much better if you take it slowly.
Ready to feel some warm fuzzies? ‘Love So Life‘ is the heartwarming manga you need in your life.
“Love So Life” by Kaede Kouchi
“Love So Life” is a manga series written and illustrated by Kaede Kouchi. The series centers around Shiharu Nakamura, a high school student who ends up taking care of two twin children as their babysitter. As the story progresses, Shiharu grows attached to the children and finds herself falling in love with their guardian, Seiji Matsunaga. The manga explores themes of family, love and sacrifice.
The unique aspect of “Love So Life” is its heartwarming portrayal of familial relationships and the importance of accepting the responsibilities that come with it. It also touches upon the complexities of romantic relationships amidst such responsibilities. Kouchi’s art style beautifully captures emotions and expressions, making each panel alluring.
“Machida-kun no Sekai” by Yuki Ando is another short manga that deserves recognition for its character development and themes of self-discovery. The story centers around Tatsuo Machida, a quiet high-school student who has trouble communicating with others due to his fear of being judged. However, he gradually overcomes his anxieties and learns to interact with others in a positive way.
To readers who enjoy uplifting stories that feature personal growth, “Honey So Sweet” by Amu Meguro would be an excellent choice. The story revolves around Nao Kogure, a shy girl who helps out an injured delinquent named Taiga Onise, eventually blossoming into a beautiful romance while dealing with various obstacles along the way.
Just when you thought you couldn’t handle one sister, along comes ‘The Quintessential Quintuplets’ with five times the trouble.
“The Quintessential Quintuplets” by Negi Haruba
“The Quintessential Quintuplets” by Negi Haruba is a riveting short series that follows the lives of five identical quintuplet sisters, who happen to have completely different personalities. This manga series has gained immense popularity worldwide due to its unique plot and character development.
The story revolves around the life of the male protagonist, who was hired as a private tutor for these quintuplets to help them with their studies. As the story progresses, feelings start developing among them, and we get to witness how they handle their romantic relationships.
Readers would love “The Quintessential Quintuplets” as it provides an intriguing glimpse into complex family relationships and overwhelming romance. Not only does it showcase the importance of education and learning, but also delves into how people with different personalities can coexist while still loving each other unconditionally.
Fans of manga series should give this one a try! With an ending that will leave you satisfied, “The Quintessential Quintuplets” by Negi Haruba offers just enough drama and depth without feeling too dragged out or complicated.
Pro Tip: Make sure you pay attention to the bond between each sister as it helps in understanding their individual traits.
Horimiya brings together the classic opposites-attract trope and the tried-and-true formula of withholding important information from your crush.
“Horimiya” by HERO and Daisuke Hagiwara
This popular manga series “Horimiya” co-authored by HERO and Daisuke Hagiwara follows the lives of two high school students, Hori and Miyamura. The refreshing plot revolves around their intertwined friendship, personal struggles and everyday challenges that they face together in school.
The story beautifully portrays how the two characters come to know each other’s true selves, allowing them to break free from the societal pressure of upholding a certain image. The engaging storyline touches upon themes such as love, heartbreak, self-discovery and growth.
Apart from its gripping plot, “Horimiya” has garnered praise for its vivid art style and character development. With its perfect blend of humor and life lessons, this manga series has won the hearts of readers worldwide.
Notably, the anime adaptation came out early last year and received recognition for staying true to the source material. Today, “Horimiya” remains one of the top short manga series appealing to both new readers and long-time fans with over 118 million copies sold around the globe.
One fan writes on Reddit that they found themselves relating to certain characters in ways that made them reflect on their own past experiences while others speak about how it helped them get through tough times in their life. Overall it positively impacts many lives with its endearing theme and relatable character dynamics – making it worth your time!
Spy x Family: When a spy, a telepath, and a fake family walk into a manga, you know it’s going to be one hell of a mission.
“Spy x Family” by Tatsuya Endo
This popular manga series by Tatsuya Endo follows a spy who creates a fake family in order to carry out his missions. The story is full of action, suspense, and heartwarming moments as the spy, his telepathic daughter, and his assassin wife bond and work together. The unique premise and relatable characters have made it a fan favorite.
The series has received critical acclaim for its intricate plot twists and well-developed characters. It has quickly become an international sensation, with translations in several languages. The art style is also praised for its detail and emotion.
One interesting fact about “Spy x Family” is that it was inspired by James Bond movies and the TV show “The Americans.” Endo wanted to create a story that combined the excitement of espionage with the relatability of family dynamics.
Izumi Tsubaki proves that ‘love is a battlefield’ in the hilarious rom-com ‘Gekkan Shoujo Nozaki-kun’.
“Gekkan Shoujo Nozaki-kun” by Izumi Tsubaki
This short manga series follows high school student, Chiyo Sakura, as she tries to confess her love to her classmate, Umetarou Nozaki. However, she discovers that he is a successful shoujo manga artist and instead becomes his assistant. “Gekkan Shoujo Nozaki-kun” by Izumi Tsubaki is a comedy filled with quirky characters and hilarious misunderstandings.
Throughout the series, readers are introduced to an array of endearing and eccentric characters such as Mikoshiba, who is a flirtatious ladies’ man but really just a romantic at heart. The series also tackles important themes such as the difficulties of pursuing one’s dreams and how to handle rejection.
For those looking for a lighthearted read with well-timed humor and relatable moments, “Gekkan Shoujo Nozaki-kun” by Izumi Tsubaki should definitely be added to their reading list. It provides an enjoyable reading experience that leaves readers feeling happy and satisfied.
If you’re feeling stuck in the Stone Age, then Dr. Stone is the perfect manga for you to read – just don’t forget to thank science afterwards.
Stone” by Riichiro Inagaki and Boichi
“Dr. Stone,” a short manga series written by Riichiro Inagaki and illustrated by Boichi, portrays a world in which humanity has been petrified for thousands of years. The story follows the adventures of two high school students who emerge from petrification and use their science skills to rebuild civilization. With its unique premise and refreshing take on post-apocalyptic stories, “Dr. Stone” is definitely worth reading.
The series offers an excellent blend of science fiction, adventure, action, and humor that sets it apart from typical shounen manga series. The amazing character development, intricate plot twists, and visually stunning artwork make this series a must-read for fans of the genre.
Apart from the premise and features mentioned above, what sets “Dr. Stone” apart is the way it approaches science as both an entertaining and educational tool for readers. The author has done a meticulous job of bringing real-world scientific concepts to life in a captivating way.
For those who love fast-paced action combined with intelligent writing and memorable characters, “Dr. Stone” ticks all the boxes. If you haven’t checked out this popular manga yet, you’re missing out on one of the most intriguing stories to come out in recent years.
Don’t let FOMO get the best of you; grab a copy of “Dr. Stone” now and get lost in its thought-provoking storyline!
A short manga series may be brief, but its impact lasts a lifetime – just like a mosquito bite in the middle of the night.
Conclusion
After exploring the top short manga series to read, it is evident that the world of manga offers a variety of genres, characters and plotlines. Each series has its own charm and uniqueness, making it difficult to choose just one. However, these 15 series stand out from the rest with their excellent storytelling and captivating art styles.
From the intriguing psychological thriller ‘Death Note‘ to the romantic comedy ‘Kagami no Kuni no Harisugawa‘, each series has something different to offer. The list also includes some underrated gems like ‘Nukoduke!‘ that are not as well-known but still have a strong fan following.
While there are many great short manga series out there, these 15 recommendations are sure to leave an impact on readers. Whether you’re a longtime manga fan or new to the medium, there’s something for everyone in this list.
One reader shared their experience of reading ‘All You Need Is Kill‘, one of the top picks on this list. They shared how they were drawn into the story immediately by its science fiction elements and fast-paced action scenes. They also praised the clear artwork and character development throughout the short series. Their review serves as a testament to just how impactful these shorter manga series can be.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 15 Best Short Manga Series To Read in 2023?
The 15 Best Short Manga Series To Read in 2023 are:
- Fly Me to the Moon
- Blue Period
- Oshi no Ko
- Mousou Shoujo Otaku Kei
- Shoujo Kakumei Utena: Adolescence Mokushiroku
- Nana
- Orange
- Kimagure Orange Road
- Beastars
- Golden Time
- Solanin
- Barakamon
- Horimiya
- Komi-san wa Komyushou Desu
- Sakura-sou no Pet na Kanojo
What is the average length of these short manga series?
The average length of these short manga series is around 10-12 volumes.
Which genre are these short manga series?
These short manga series belong to different genres such as romance, drama, comedy, slice of life, and school life.
Where can I read these short manga series?
These short manga series can be read on various online platforms such as ComiXology, Shonen Jump, Crunchyroll Manga, and MangaPlus.
Are these short manga series suitable for all ages?
While some of these short manga series are suitable for all ages, others may have more mature themes or content. It is important to check the ratings or parental guidance warnings before reading.
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