The holidays are the perfect time to unwind and dive into manga, whether you’re catching up on long-overdue favorites or discovering exciting new series. From emotional journeys and laugh-out-loud comedies to action-packed thrill rides, this curated list offers something for every manga fan. Featuring series with upcoming volumes or recently completed stories, these picks are ideal for binge-reading between holiday feasts and cozy nights in. So grab a blanket, a warm drink, and let these 10 must-read manga whisk you away to worlds full of wonder, chaos, and unforgettable characters.
Table of Contents
- Witch Hat Atelier
- The Summer Hikaru Died
- Delicious in Dungeon
- Oshi no Ko
- Call of the Night
- Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End
- I Want a Gal Gamer to Praise Me
- My Girlfriend’s Child
- Candy and Cigarettes
- Dandadan
1. Witch Hat Atelier
A Magical World Like No Other
Few manga capture the imagination like Witch Hat Atelier. Kamome Shirahama’s breathtaking artwork and intricately crafted magic system invite readers into a world where the act of drawing itself holds extraordinary power. The story follows Coco, a curious and determined girl whose discovery of forbidden magic sets her on a path filled with wonder, mystery, and danger. The manga’s rich world-building, coupled with its heartfelt themes of creativity and curiosity, makes every page an invitation to explore a world where art and magic intertwine.
Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Start
With Volume 13 releasing in January 2025, the holidays offer the perfect opportunity to dive into this enchanting series or revisit its earlier volumes. Each chapter feels like a piece of art, blending emotional depth with a sense of adventure that lingers long after you’ve turned the page.
A Labor of Love in Animation
The recent anime adaptation has brought Shirahama’s intricate designs to life with stunning motion and thoughtful storytelling. Be sure to read our interview with the production team from Anime Expo. A true labor of love from its creators, the adaptation captures the magic of the original while offering new ways for fans to experience the story.
2. The Summer Hikaru Died
A Haunting Tale of Love and Fear
The Summer Hikaru Died begins with an eerie and unsettling premise: Yoshiki discovers that his best friend, Hikaru, has been replaced by something not quite human. What starts as a chilling supernatural mystery evolves into an intimate exploration of the fragile space between love, fear, and the unknown. Set against the quiet stillness of rural Japan, Mokumokuren’s masterful artwork brings the setting to life, heightening the emotional tension and amplifying the haunting unease that lingers throughout the story.
Why Now Is the Time to Read It
With Volume 5 arriving in March 2025, now is the perfect time to immerse yourself in this unique blend of emotional depth and supernatural intrigue. The story’s deliberate pacing makes it ideal for readers who enjoy narratives that unravel slowly, pulling you deeper with each page.
Anticipated Anime Adaptation
An anime adaptation by CygamesPictures is already in the works, promising to introduce this haunting tale to a broader audience. For the most immersive experience, start with the original manga, where every panel feels like it’s holding its breath, waiting to reveal something unforgettable.
3. Delicious in Dungeon
A Feast of Fantasy and Culinary Delight
Delicious in Dungeon transforms the classic dungeon-crawling adventure into something entirely unexpected—a culinary masterpiece. When Laios and his party embark on a dangerous quest to save his sister, they make a bold decision: to cook and eat the monsters they defeat. Ryoko Kui’s seamless blend of high fantasy and gastronomic creativity offers readers a story that’s equal parts humor, heart, and imagination. Each chapter feels like a celebration of resourcefulness and camaraderie, making it a tale that’s both entertaining and surprisingly warm.
Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Read
With the series concluding in Volume 14 earlier this year, readers can now enjoy the complete journey from start to finish. Whether you’re new to the series or returning to revisit its rich world-building and quirky characters, Delicious in Dungeon offers a binge-worthy experience that’s as satisfying as a well-cooked meal.
The Anime Brings the Adventure to Life
The anime adaptation by Trigger breathes new life into Kui’s imaginative world, turning the monstrous meals and heartfelt moments into stunning animation. With a second season already announced, there’s still time to dive into the manga before its fanbase grows even larger.
4. Oshi no Ko
Why You Should Read It
Oshi no Ko grabs you from the first chapter and refuses to let go, turning initial curiosity into full-blown obsession. The story follows Aqua and Ruby Hoshino, twins navigating the harsh, glittering world of Japan’s entertainment industry. Combining reincarnation, revenge, and the dark side of fame, the manga creates an intricate web of secrets and heartbreak.
Aka Akasaka’s sharp, insightful writing paired with Mengo Yokoyari’s emotive illustrations paints a world where every smile conceals a hidden truth, and success often comes with an overwhelming price. We recently reviewed the Art Book, which contains even more insight into the Manga.
Perfect for Holiday Binge-Reading
With Volume 8 now available in English, the holidays offer the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in this compelling drama. It’s an ideal choice for readers who love narratives with complex characters, high stakes, and emotional depth.
The Anime Phenomenon
The anime adaptation by Doga Kobo has propelled Oshi no Ko into the spotlight, thanks to its stunning visuals and emotionally charged performances. With a third season confirmed, there’s no better time to catch up on the manga before spoilers start circulating.
5. Call of the Night
Why You Should Read It
Call of the Night offers a mesmerizing blend of romance, mystery, and supernatural intrigue, wrapped in the allure of the nocturnal world. The story follows Ko Yamori, a restless teenager who abandons his mundane daily routine for sleepless nights of exploration. His encounters with the enigmatic Nazuna Nanakusa, a carefree vampire, spark a journey of self-discovery and a growing fascination with the freedom of the night.
The manga feels like a love letter to the night, capturing the electric glow of neon lights, the silence of moonlit streets, and the sense of endless possibilities that come alive after sunset. Kotoyama’s storytelling masterfully balances moments of introspection with bursts of supernatural energy, making it an unforgettable read for anyone seeking a break from the ordinary.
Perfect Timing to Catch Up
With Volume 18 releasing in December 2024, Western readers are at the perfect point to immerse themselves in the series and enjoy its bittersweet conclusion. While the manga has officially ended in Japan, the holidays are an excellent time to binge-read this atmospheric tale and appreciate its nuanced themes of identity, freedom, and connection.In case you missed it, check out our review.
Anime Adaptation and Cultural Impact
The anime adaptation has further amplified Call of the Night’s popularity. Its evocative art style captures the manga’s moody ambiance, while the soundtrack by Creepy Nuts perfectly complements the story’s tone. With a second season confirmed, now is the time to dive into the manga before the anime introduces new audiences to its captivating world.
6. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End
A Thoughtful Exploration of Life and Loss
Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is a fantasy story unlike any other, focusing not on heroic battles but on the quiet, reflective moments that follow them. Frieren, an elven mage whose long lifespan far exceeds that of her human companions, finds herself grappling with the weight of what was left unsaid and undone after their legendary quest. The manga beautifully explores themes of life, loss, and the passage of time, delivering a narrative that lingers in your heart long after you’ve closed the book.
Each chapter feels like a profound meditation, offering moments of stillness that invite readers to reflect on what truly matters. Rather than focusing on grand battles, the story is a celebration of the fleeting beauty of connection and the importance of cherishing small, meaningful experiences.
Upcoming Volume Release
With Volume 13 set for release in May 2025, now is the perfect time to catch up on this deeply emotional journey.Whether you’re revisiting Frieren’s tale or discovering it for the first time, the manga’s quiet yet powerful storytelling offers an experience that’s unmatched.
A Magical Anime Adaptation
The anime adaptation has captured the manga’s essence, bringing its moments of stillness and emotional depth to life. However, the magic of the original pages remains unparalleled, making it a must-read for fans of introspective and character-driven stories. In case you missed it, check our most recent review.
7. I Want a Gal Gamer to Praise Me
Why You Should Read It
I Want a Gal Gamer to Praise Me is a delightful mix of gaming culture, high school humor, and just the right amount of chaos. The story follows Raito Sasaki, a self-conscious gamer who embarks on a mission to improve his FPS skills under the guidance of the fashionable and endlessly supportive Rion Suzuki. Their dynamic is both hilarious and heartwarming, offering readers a perfect blend of comedy and connection.
A Gaming Rom-Com with Heart
What sets this manga apart is its ability to take the absurdity of gaming tropes and turn them into moments of genuine growth. Rion’s character isn’t just a cheerleader for Raito—she brings depth, warmth, and a spark of chaos to the story, making what could have been a standard rom-com setup feel fresh and sincere. Watching Raito’s awkward attempts to impress and improve makes for a relatable and entertaining journey that sneaks up on you with its charm.
Perfect Time to Jump In
With Volume 3 releasing in November 2024, now is the perfect time to catch up on this feel-good story. Whether you’re drawn by the hilarious gaming references or the budding connection between Raito and Rion, this series promises laughs, heartfelt moments, and a healthy dose of nostalgia for gamers.
8. My Girlfriend’s Child
A Moving and Unflinching Look at Youth
Few manga handle heavy topics with the grace and sensitivity of My Girlfriend’s Child. The story follows high schoolers Sachi and Takara as they face the challenges of an unexpected pregnancy, navigating the emotional and societal pressures that come with it. Mamoru Aoi’s storytelling shines as it captures the raw, vulnerable emotions of its characters, presenting a journey that is both thought-provoking and deeply heartfelt.
A Must-Read for the Holidays
With Volume 6 releasing in December 2024, now is the ideal time to catch up on this award-winning series. The manga’s ability to resonate with readers around the world stems from its honest portrayal of youthful resilience and the complexities of choice. Each chapter invites readers to reflect on the challenges of growing up and finding strength in the face of overwhelming circumstances.
Drama Adaptation and Lasting Impact
The drama adaptation has introduced this poignant story to an even broader audience. However, the manga’s intimate artwork and deliberate pacing deliver a depth that’s hard to replicate on screen. Its message of hope and empathy is one that lingers long after the final page, making it a perfect recommendation for anyone who values emotional, character-driven storytelling.
9. Candy and Cigarettes
A Revenge Tale with a Unique Twist
Candy and Cigarettes proves that revenge stories don’t have to be all grim and gritty—they can be sharp, stylish, and even laced with humor. The story pairs retired cop Raizou Hiraga with 11-year-old assassin Miharu Suzuki in a dynamic that’s as chaotic as it is unexpectedly heartfelt. Together, they navigate missions filled with explosive action, dark humor, and a growing bond that brings depth to their high-stakes adventures.
Perfect Time to Jump In
With the final Volume 11 arriving in February 2025, now is the ideal moment to immerse yourself in this stylishly gritty series. Tomonori Inoue’s crisp artwork and fast-paced storytelling make every chapter feel like a scene from a blockbuster action film, while the evolving relationship between Raizou and Miharu keeps readers emotionally invested.
More Than Just Action
Beneath its adrenaline-pumping surface, Candy and Cigarettes explores deeper questions of morality, loyalty, and the lengths we’ll go to for the people we care about. It’s a story that balances intense action sequences with poignant character moments, making it more than just a thrill ride—it’s a holiday binge-read that will leave you thinking long after you’ve closed the final volume
10. Dandadan
A Wild Ride Through the Supernatural
If chaos had a name, it would be Dandadan. This manga is a rollercoaster of alien abductions, ghost possessions, and battles so bizarre they defy explanation. The story follows Momo Ayase and Ken Takakura (Okarun), two skeptics turned supernatural warriors, as they navigate a world filled with jaw-dropping action and unexpected heart.
Perfect Timing to Catch Up
With Volume 10 dropping in December 2024, now is the ideal time to jump into the series. The buzz surrounding its phenomenal anime adaptation has only heightened the excitement, making it a must-read for fans of fast-paced, unpredictable storytelling.
What Makes It Unforgettable
Dandadan thrives on its unapologetic energy and sheer willingness to embrace the absurd. One moment, you’re immersed in high-stakes battles; the next, you’re laughing at its off-the-wall humor. Yukinobu Tatsu’s sharp, unpredictable storytelling and the growing romance between Momo and Okarun add depth to this chaotic ride, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. Whether you’re here for the action, the humor, or the emotional moments, one thing is certain: you won’t be bored for a second.
There’s something magical about the holidays—time to relax, reflect, and dive into unforgettable manga stories. Whether you’re seeking heartfelt tales of growth or high-energy adventures, this carefully curated list has something to match every mood. Perfect for catching up or starting fresh, these manga are sure to leave a lasting impression and might even spark conversations with fellow fans. So why not add a volume or two to your holiday reading list? You could discover your next favorite series and make this season even more memorable.
