Since we are on summer break, I have had a strange craving for some reading, especially manga. so I decided to share them with you! If you are feeling like trying a new comic or manga this summer, here are five mangas for you to read!
1) "Deadman Wonderland"
Genre: Horror, Action, Shounen, Science Fiction
Number of Chapters: 58
Ongoing?: No (Completed in 2013)
Seventh grader Ganta Igarashi is the only survivor of a massive, abnormal slaughter of his entire class. What is worse is that he is accused of the crime, gets the death sentence, and is sent to the infamous Deadman Wonderland (DW), where prisoners are forced into lethal games for people's entertainment. However, the true show of DW is the Carnival Corpse, in which people with mysterious blood-based powers fight to the death.
I recently finished this manga, even though I started it last year (I am horribly inconsistent!!). But what made me pick it up was the unsatisfying conclusion to its great anime counterpart. What I found was a solid story, with the perfect amount of mystery and suspense up until the end, great action, twisted yet amazing characters, and a devious setting and plot ready to take you in! However, this manga does feature A LOT of blood and gore. If you are the queasy type, then I would be cautious.
2) "Chivalry of the Failed Knight" / Rakudai Kishi no Kyabarurii
Genre: Action, Fantasy, Romance, High School
Number of Chapters: 26
Ongoing?: Yes!
Ikki Kurogane wants to participate in the Seven Star Sword Art Tournament in order to prove that he can win and redeem himself. However, after losing the last tournament and gaining the title "The Worst One", Ikki, along with his roommate and A-Rank Blazer Stella Vermilion (pictured above), will overcome odds and fight toward his ultimate goal.
This is a manga that breaks stereotypes and makes you think a little! The characters' powers are intriguing and how the thinks it out; it even gets on the neurological level (sounds nerdy, but pretty cool!). The powers and weapons can get slightly convoluted, so make sure to pay close attention! I believe the best part about the manga is Ikki's characterization, and how he embodies determination - a great journey to read.
3) "Doubt"
Genre: Mystery, Horror, Psychological, Seinen, Shounen
Number of Chapters: 20
Ongoing?: No (Completed in 2009)
When six people are plunged into a sadistic game called Rabbit Doubt, they must seek out the secret killer, or wolf, in the group and escape before they all perish together.
For this one, I pretty much binge-read it in a day. As indicated, it is very short, but very suspenseful. There are some twists that will definitely surprise you, especially toward the end. I actually found myself taking guesses at who may be the killer, so it will definitely keep you engaged! Characterization and art is pretty good and you might get a Future Diary feeling from it! Note: this manga also features blood and gore.
4) "The Ancient Magus' Bride" / Mahou Tsukai no Yome
Genre: Fantasy, Shounen, Supernatural, Mystery
Number of Chapters: 28
Ongoing?: Yes!
Chise Hatori sold herself into slavery after her family has abandoned her. At a secret auction, she is bought by the mysterious Elias Ainsworth to be his wife and mage apprentice. Chise's life is transformed as she delves into the mystical world of magic and fairies and learns about herself and her cryptic master.
This is another manga that will sweep you in with its magical world! The characters are very intriguing and likable, and the world that the author has created will have you learning more and getting drawn in. Character motivations would be the key thing to pay attention to because it ultimately shapes the progression of the story. Chise's perspective is also a great gateway into what is in store for her as a character and you as the reader!
5) "Dragons Rioting" 
Genre: Ecchi, Action, High School, Harem, Shounen
Number of Chapters: 30
Ongoing?: Yes!
Rintaro Tachibana accidentally gets transferred to the largest, all-female high school that has recently become co-ed. The problem is that he suffers from a condition that will give him a heart attack if he becomes sexually aroused. Luckily, he was trained to use a martial arts style that stabilizes his body and mind; those skills will come in handy when he encounters the school's top "Dragons", who currently has the school divided by factions.
Over the top martial arts, appealing characters, and quaint comedy makes this manga a wonderful read! What is better is that the main character does not take any crap from the females! He will actually fight them back! If you are willing to overlook the hyper-sexualized women and fan service, then I think you will enjoy this manga. A little note: this manga comes out less frequently than the others (I think monthly), but the chapters are long enough to keep you hooked until the next volume!
Hopefully one of these selections will keep you interested this summer!
