8 Best-Selling Manga Books Millions Love

Explore Manga Books recommended by experts including Kentaro Miura, Junji Ito, and Kohei Horikoshi, celebrated for their captivating storytelling and artistry.

Updated on June 24, 2025
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There's something special about books that both critics and crowds love, especially in the world of Manga. Millions have been drawn to stories that blend intricate art with compelling narratives, making Manga a global cultural phenomenon. From dark fantasy epics to superhero tales, these books offer proven value and lasting appeal that continue to inspire readers and artists alike.

Experts like Kentaro Miura, whose work on Berserk reshaped dark fantasy manga, and Junji Ito, a master of horror storytelling, have crafted stories with lasting impact. Kohei Horikoshi's My Hero Academia brings fresh energy to the superhero genre, captivating new and veteran readers. These creators' books have not only topped sales charts but also influenced generations of manga enthusiasts.

While these popular books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific Manga needs might consider creating a personalized Manga book that combines these validated approaches. This option offers a unique way to explore Manga techniques and stories suited to your interests and skill level.

Best for dark fantasy manga fans
Berserk, Vol. 1 stands out in manga for its uncompromising blend of horror, fantasy, and dark humor, establishing a vivid world ruled by conflict and supernatural menace. This volume introduces Guts, a warrior battling both external foes and inner demons, whose story is told with meticulous detail and intense emotional depth. Its reputation as a foundational work has influenced manga and anime enthusiasts worldwide, making it a must-explore for those seeking narratives where art and raw storytelling converge. The book offers a gritty, immersive experience that challenges readers with its mature themes and powerful visuals, enriching the dark fantasy manga genre.
Berserk, Vol. 1 book cover

by Kentaro Miura·You?

2003·224 pages·Manga, Fantasy, Dark Fantasy, Graphic Violence, Character Development

Kentaro Miura's Berserk, Vol. 1 plunges you into a dark fantasy world where violence and grim humor collide. Miura, renowned for his intricate artistry and storytelling, crafts the saga of Guts, a battle-scarred warrior marked by a sinister brand that relentlessly attracts evil forces. You learn not just about survival in a brutal world but also witness complex themes of vengeance and fate explored through vivid character interactions and intense battles. This volume suits those drawn to mature, graphic narratives blending horror with fantasy, offering a raw and unflinching look at human resilience and darkness.

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Best for deluxe manga collectors
Kentaro Miura is a prominent contemporary manga artist whose work Berserk has inspired a wide range of adaptations including TV series, films, and video games. Receiving the second place in the Tezuka Osamu Cultural Prize of Excellence, Miura’s expertise and vision bring Berserk Deluxe Volume 1 to life with its oversized format showcasing his intricate art and storytelling. This edition invites you to experience the intense world of Berserk as it was originally serialized, offering a collector's item that both new and longtime fans can immerse themselves in.
Berserk Deluxe Volume 1 book cover

by Kentaro Miura, Jason DeAngelis··You?

2019·696 pages·Manga, Graphic Novel, Fantasy, Horror, Artistry

Kentaro Miura’s background as a prominent manga artist shines through Berserk Deluxe Volume 1, where he blends intense fantasy and horror in a way that has captivated audiences since 1989. This deluxe edition collects the first three volumes in an oversized format, allowing you to fully appreciate Miura’s detailed artwork and intricate storytelling. You'll gain insight into the dark, complex world-building and character development that have inspired TV adaptations and video games alike. If you’re drawn to mature, visually rich narratives that push manga boundaries, this book offers a deep dive into a legendary series that continues to influence the genre.

New York Times Bestseller
Second Place Tezuka Osamu Cultural Prize
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Best for personal manga plans
This personalized AI book about manga art and storytelling is created after you share your current skills, interests, and story ideas. By focusing on what aspects excite you most—whether it’s character creation, plot development, or visual style—the book is crafted specifically to support your goals in manga mastery. Using AI allows for a custom exploration that respects your unique background and preferences, making your learning more relevant and enjoyable.
2025·50-300 pages·Manga, Manga Fundamentals, Art Techniques, Character Design, Story Development

This tailored book explores the dynamic world of manga art and narrative development with a focus on your unique interests and goals. It reveals essential techniques in manga artistry, including character design, panel composition, and visual storytelling, matched to your background and skill level. By combining widely valued approaches from millions of readers with your personal preferences, it examines how to craft compelling manga narratives that resonate emotionally and visually. This personalized guide delves into story pacing, genre conventions, and artistic expression, helping you build a manga style that’s distinctly yours while learning proven methods that have shaped popular works.

Tailored Guide
Narrative Crafting
3,000+ Books Generated
Best for mature fantasy enthusiasts
Kentaro Miura is a Japanese manga artist best known for his dark fantasy series Berserk, which has captivated fans worldwide and earned multiple awards. Celebrating over thirty years, Berserk’s enduring popularity reflects Miura’s talent for weaving intense battles and intricate political drama into a richly detailed medieval fantasy world. This deluxe edition collects volumes 7 through 9, showcasing Miura’s meticulous artwork and storytelling prowess that have made Berserk a landmark manga series.
Berserk Deluxe Volume 3 book cover

by Kentaro Miura, Duane Johnson··You?

2019·704 pages·Manga, Fantasy, Dark Fantasy, Medieval, War

Kentaro Miura’s Berserk Deluxe Volume 3 continues the dark fantasy saga with a rich portrayal of political intrigue and brutal warfare. You’ll witness the complex power struggles within the kingdom of Midland as Griffith’s ambitions unsettle the court, while Guts’ relentless fighting spirit drives the story’s intensity. The volume collects pivotal chapters 7 through 9, offering detailed art and layered storytelling that reveal the human and supernatural conflicts at play. If you’re drawn to manga that blends gritty action with psychological depth and medieval fantasy, this volume delivers a compelling chapter in the ongoing epic.

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Best for horror manga aficionados
Uzumaki (3-in-1 Deluxe Edition) offers a unique place within manga by focusing on horror through the lens of an obsessive spiral pattern that haunts a small Japanese town. This deluxe hardcover compiles the entire story, allowing you to experience the slow descent into madness that defines this psychological and supernatural tale. Readers who appreciate manga that combines intricate artwork with an unsettling narrative will find this edition particularly rewarding. It meets the demand for horror manga that goes beyond jump scares, emphasizing atmosphere and creeping dread, making it a compelling read for fans of the genre.
Uzumaki (3-in-1 Deluxe Edition) (Junji Ito) book cover

by Junji Ito·You?

2013·648 pages·Manga, Horror, Psychological Horror, Supernatural, Japanese Culture

Drawing from decades of experience in horror manga, Junji Ito crafts a chilling narrative that explores the unsettling power of spirals in a fogbound Japanese town. You’ll encounter eerie illustrations paired with psychological terror, especially through characters like Shuichi Saito and Kirie Goshima, who reveal how a simple shape can become a pervasive curse. This edition compiles the entire story, allowing you to observe the gradual unraveling of normal life into madness across multiple chapters. If you’re drawn to atmospheric horror that combines art and storytelling tightly, this book offers a deep dive into those unsettling themes.

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Best for action fantasy readers
Solo Leveling, Vol. 1 stands out in the manga world with its intense blend of fantasy and action, capturing readers who crave high-stakes adventure and character evolution. This volume showcases the journey of Jinwoo Sung, an underdog hunter facing life-threatening raids that demand courage and cunning. Its vivid storytelling and dynamic artwork have drawn a broad audience, highlighting its appeal to those seeking thrilling narratives within the manga genre. By focusing on themes like survival and power escalation, it serves readers eager to immerse themselves in a richly built world where every battle counts.
Solo Leveling, Vol. 1 (comic) (Volume 1) (Solo Leveling (manga), 1) book cover

by Hye Young Im, DUBU(REDICE DUBU(REDICE STUDIO), Abigail Blackman, Chugong·You?

2021·320 pages·Manga, Fantasy, Action, Adventure, Character Development

What started as a story of a struggling E-rank hunter in a dangerous world became a gripping narrative that explores perseverance, power, and transformation. Solo Leveling, Vol. 1 introduces you to Jinwoo Sung, whose journey from being the weakest hunter to facing overwhelming foes teaches you about resilience and strategic combat in high-stakes environments. The manga dives into themes of survival against impossible odds, and its vivid artwork and pacing keep you engaged through tense raid scenarios, particularly the chapter where Jinwoo confronts a power beyond anything he's seen. If you’re drawn to intense action layered with character growth in a fantasy setting, this volume offers a compelling entry point.

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Best for rapid skill growth
This personalized AI book about manga improvement is created after you share your current background, skill level, and specific areas you want to focus on. By understanding your unique goals and interests, it offers a tailored 30-day plan to help you build manga skills efficiently. Unlike generic guides, this book is crafted specifically for your pace and style, making your learning journey more engaging and effective.
2025·50-300 pages·Manga, Manga Fundamentals, Storytelling Basics, Character Design, Panel Composition

This tailored book explores a personalized approach to rapidly improving your manga skills through focused, step-by-step actions. By combining widely valued techniques with your individual interests, it matches your background and artistic goals to provide a learning experience crafted just for you. The content examines essential aspects of manga creation, from storytelling foundations and character development to pacing and visual expression, all within a 30-day structured plan. Each chapter reveals actionable lessons adapted to your pace and style, ensuring you engage with methods that resonate personally. This approach allows you to explore reader-validated knowledge while accelerating your growth as a manga artist in a way that feels natural and inspiring.

Tailored Guide
Skill Acceleration
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for ongoing fantasy series fans
Kisoryong Chugong is a renowned author known for creating the popular webcomic series Solo Leveling, which has captivated millions of readers worldwide. His work has been recognized for its engaging storytelling and stunning artwork, leading to a successful anime adaptation that won Best Anime Series in the Astra TV Awards. Chugong's unique blend of action, fantasy, and character development has set a new standard in the genre, making this volume a must-read for fans eager to follow Jinwoo's evolving journey and the challenges that come with his growing power.
Solo Leveling, Vol. 5 (comic) (Volume 5) (Solo Leveling (comic), 5) book cover

by Hye Young Im, J. Torres, DUBU(REDICE DUBU(REDICE STUDIO), Abigail Blackman, Chugong··You?

2022·320 pages·Manga, Comics, Graphic Novel, Fantasy, Action

What started as a popular webcomic series, Solo Leveling, Vol. 5 continues to explore the thrilling journey of Jinwoo as he navigates complex challenges within the Hunter’s Association. The authors, including Kisoryong Chugong, bring you into detailed scenes of intense action and strategy, such as Jinwoo’s unexpected leadership during a dangerous dungeon boss encounter. You’ll gain insight into character growth framed by high-stakes fantasy combat, with vivid artwork and narrative pacing that enrich your experience. If you appreciate dynamic storytelling blended with compelling visuals, this volume offers a deep dive into the evolving world of solo and team dynamics in a fantasy setting.

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Best for superhero manga newcomers
My Hero Academia, Vol. 1 offers a unique lens into the superhero genre through the popular medium of manga, capturing a world where superpowers shape society and personal destiny. This volume introduces you to Izuku Midoriya’s journey from powerless outsider to hopeful hero, illustrating a narrative of grit and transformation. Its wide appeal lies in blending compelling character arcs with dynamic action scenes, making it a natural choice for those drawn to stories about growth, friendship, and courage within the manga tradition. Whether you're curious about manga or seeking a fresh spin on hero stories, this volume stands as a significant entry point.
My Hero Academia, Vol. 1 (1) book cover

by Kohei Horikoshi, Caleb D. Cook·You?

2015·192 pages·Manga, Superheroes, Coming Of Age, School Life, Action

What makes this manga resonate with so many is its fresh take on the superhero genre through the eyes of Izuku Midoriya, a powerless boy dreaming of heroism in a world where most have superpowers called Quirks. Kohei Horikoshi crafts a narrative that blends youthful determination with the challenges of self-discovery, particularly showcased in chapters detailing Midoriya's struggles at U.A. High School and his mentorship under All Might. You'll find the story not just about flashy battles but about perseverance and growth, making it a compelling read whether you're new to manga or a seasoned fan of coming-of-age tales.

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Best for aspiring manga artists
Christopher Hart is the world’s best-selling author of how-to-draw books, with over 8 million copies sold and more than 100 published titles. His rare achievement of holding the top three art books simultaneously, as reported by Nielsen BookScan, underscores his expertise. This guide reflects his commitment to making anime drawing accessible, providing clear templates and insights that help you bring original manga characters to life.
2015·144 pages·Drawing, Manga, Comics Drawing, Character Design, Anime Techniques

Christopher Hart's decades of experience as a leading how-to-draw author led to this guide designed to help you create original anime characters from simple templates. You'll learn to draw six popular anime character types—schoolgirls, schoolboys, preteens, villains, comedic figures, and fantasy personas—using detailed menus of head shapes, outfits, and accessories. The book includes step-by-step exercises and contributions from renowned anime artists like Inma R. and Ayame Shiroi, offering you practical insight into character design. Whether you're a beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, this book delivers focused techniques without overwhelming you, making it a solid choice for anyone passionate about manga artistry.

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Conclusion

The collection of these 8 best-selling Manga books reveals clear themes: masterful storytelling, detailed artistry, and diverse genres from horror to superhero adventures. If you prefer proven methods steeped in classic and contemporary manga, starting with Berserk and Uzumaki offers immersive worlds rich in depth and emotion. For those who want validated approaches to character and action, combining Solo Leveling and My Hero Academia provides thrilling narratives with broad appeal.

Aspiring manga artists and enthusiasts will find The Master Guide to Drawing Anime an invaluable resource for honing their craft alongside enjoyment of these stories. Alternatively, you can create a personalized Manga book to combine proven methods with your unique needs. These widely-adopted approaches have helped many readers succeed in understanding, creating, and appreciating Manga in meaningful ways.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which manga book should I start with?

Start with a title that matches your interests: if you love dark fantasy, try Berserk, Vol. 1. For superhero themes, My Hero Academia is approachable and engaging. This helps you get hooked without feeling lost.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Manga?

Not at all. Books like My Hero Academia, Vol. 1 and The Master Guide to Drawing Anime are great entry points, balancing accessibility with rich storytelling and skill-building, perfect for newcomers.

What's the best order to read these manga books?

You can read them by genre or preference. For example, start with My Hero Academia for light superhero action, then explore Berserk for darker themes. Drawing guides can be used anytime alongside reading.

Do I really need to read all of these, or can I just pick one?

You can certainly pick one that fits your taste. Each book stands strong alone, but exploring multiple titles broadens your understanding of Manga's variety and artistic styles.

Which books focus more on theory vs. practical application?

The Master Guide to Drawing Anime focuses on practical drawing techniques, while titles like Berserk and Uzumaki immerse you in storytelling theory through their narrative and art styles.

Can I get a Manga book personalized to my interests and skill level?

Yes! Personalized Manga books complement expert recommendations perfectly by tailoring content to your goals and experience. Learn more and create your own here.

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