North and South 4,680 Posted July 21, 2013 Share Posted July 21, 2013 (edited) I obviously have a lot of time right now. Not really, but I actually have re started reading shoujo manga, and have been *re* shocked by how bad so many were. I was also pleasantly surprised to find many many hidden gems, of varying types within the genre. I know we have a manga and anime recommendation thread, but I wanted to make an organized list of what I have, out of personal experience, recognized to be very good Shoujo manga. I shall be ruthless in my evaluations, and I will only post up what I feel to have properly lived up to expectations. I have also tried to organize it so that it is easy for someone who is browsing to try and find what one might like. I’ve also tried to avoid the better-known examples, because every time someone recommends Fruits Basket to me when I ask for a good shoujo manga, I want to bang my head against a wall repeatedly. If you also know of something really good, then please post it up but please, PLEASE use the format given. I’m pretty OCD when it comes to lists for some odd reason, and this way the list won’t degenerate into those annoying long walls of text that don’t really tell anything much at all. The template is below. - Title: - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: - Tags/ Genres: - Summary: - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: Cons: Overall: Fair note of warning, you can only post up to ten pictures. So don’t write this all up, and then see that you can’t post it O__o I’ll have to split up my recommendations as well… - Title: Akumu No Sume Ie - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Ongoing/ 4 chapters - Tags/ Genres: Shoujo, Supernatural, Mystery, Horror - Summary: The sequel to Ghost Hunt; the paranormal investigators at the SPR are recruited to investigate a strange house, spearheaded by the handsome but cold teen boss Kazuya Shibuya. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: Beautiful artwork, the storyline is gripping, the tension and the horror are well handled, interactions between the characters are genuine without any of the usual goofiness that is problematic in most shoujo and main female lead is not annoying, rather she is endearing. Cons: Does not really focus on romance as of yet, at least between the main characters but there are many forward hints. Is in the process of serialization, so only four chapters have been released as of now. Overall: This is highly recommended for all shoujo fans. It’s a good escape from the glut of slice of life series, and the quality of the work is just too damn high to miss it. - Title: Ghost Hunt - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 12 Volumes - Tags/ Genres: Mystery, Drama, Romance, Shoujo, Supernatural, Horror, Psychological - Summary: Mai Taniyama is a normal high school girl with a penchant for ghost stories, until she finds herself face to face with real ghosts as she is forced to work for the SPR. Her boss is the handsome and cold Kazuya Shibuya, or Naru, who is only a teen himself. Others join the crew, and together they hunt after the paranormal. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The manga is episodic, presented in the format of case files. These stories are well written, and believable, with the author presenting concepts such as psychokinetic tendencies, ancient Chinese hexes and poltergeists in a precise, clinical manner in the form of the science based and logical Kazuya Shibuya. The romance is obvious here, it’s not overplayed, nor is it even the main focus, but it is a big theme. It has a good flow to it as well, and integrates with the rest of the story very well. Cons: This is a relatively dated manga, so the first few volumes definitely show off some dated styles and artwork, but it is by no means terrible. Also the artwork suits the more realistic tone of the work. Overall: Another must read for shoujo fans. Although personally, I think anyone could read it and enjoy it, because the story contains such depth and scope in it’s research of the paranormal that it’s very easy to believe that this could actually have happened. - Title: Heroine Shikakku - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Ongoing/ 30 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Comedy, Drama, Slice of Life, School Life, Romance - Summary: Hatori has always believed that she is just like the main heroine in a shoujo manga, she has a hot childhood friend and now that they are in high school, they’ll end up falling in love together and have one big happy ending, right? Unfortunately, instead of being the main heroine, she may have to deal with being the annoying supporting character instead, but she’s not going to take it lying down. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: This is just too funny, and not in one of those fluffy rom-com ways either. The facial expressions and the references, along with the bitchiness, it’s probably the funniest ones I have ever seen. The characters as well, they are all deeply flawed, but each with their own unique personality, that you can’t help but get invested in their well being especially the main girl’s. Cons: Hatori can cry a lot, not in a silly way though, but this is heavy on the drama. Also the couples are not entirely shippable, because you never really know who’s going to end up with whom. The art can be a little messy at times, but I prefer its style. Overall: I instantly loved it. I found Hatori relatable, and the characters convincing. I also literally started wheezing from how hard I was laughing at certain parts. - Title: Hirunaka no Ryuusei - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Ongoing/ 21 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Shoujo, Comedy, Slice of Life, Romance - Summary: Suzume is a bit of a country bumpkin when she first arrives in the big city. Her first experience of he city though, is a strange guy who rescues her once she gets lost. Weirdly enough, he’s her homeroom teacher. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The art is beautiful. And the main female lead is predictably plain, but she does have some backbone at least. The crush on her teacher is also handled pretty well. Cons: This is pure shoujo. Do not expect something mind blowing. Overall: Cute, and a well-done teacher student romance as of so far. - Title: Horimiya - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Ongoing/ 23 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Comedy, Romance, Shonen - Summary: At school Hori is the perfectly primped girl, with the hair and the makeup, but at home, she’s laid back and has to take care of her little brother, so she’s just like a housewife. Miyamura, the loner of the class, also has a sort of secret identity as well, and the two of them become closer as a result. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: Really pretty art style, well developed main characters, they have tangible chemistry. Cons: The supporting cast fails to live up to the main couple IMO, and is downright irrelevant. Overall: I would highly recommend this, although even though this is classified as shounen, the plot clichés are definitely oh so shoujo. - Title: Keishichou Tokuhanka 007 - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Ongoing/ 19 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Shoujo, Supernatural, Police - Summary: Fuyuki, an odd but beautiful girl, has been assigned to the special 007 unit in the Tokyo Police Department, and is partnered with the handsome but brooding Kuze as they investigate the paranormal. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The characters are the big things here. The story is character driven for the most part, and it works because the mains have amazing chemistry, and the side characters add to the experience overall. The supernatural twist is just a bonus really. Cons: I have grown to like the art, but I will admit I was jarred when I first saw it. It is wonderfully detailed however, and Kuze is incredibly good looking. Overall: I would recommend this to everyone. I would also tell people not to be put off by the possible threat of a too serious storyline. This is so far, a true shoujo at heart, but it’s by no means fluff and filler. - Title: Mairunovich - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Ongoing/ 18 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Comedy, School, Shoujo - Summary: Mairu is known as the weird kid, or “Poison Mushroom†at school. But with unexpected help from the hottest guy at school, she may have hope yet. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The art is good, and this is downright hilarious. Also, you think you know who’s going to end up with whom, but in the end, you really don’t. Cons: The main character has received a lot of characterization, but the rest of the case not so much. It’s a little gripe. Overall: It’s a very good read, especially for people who prefer sarcastic, snarky humor. - Title: C-Blossom- Case 729 - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 4 Chapters. Do not be fooled by this label, this is a pretty long story, each chapter is around 100 pages. - Tags/ Genres: Action, Shoujo - Summary: Kana used to have the idyllic life, until her father was arrested for embezzling government funds and she was ostracized by society. After having switched out into a private school she’s suddenly approached by a mysterious man, and no one could have predicted what was to happen next. I have given a purposefully vague summary, because this is too good to spoil. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: This is amazing. Everything. The art, story, characters, and yes there is action. Cons: None. Overall: I have nothing to say but read it. And I do not hand out my praise easily. Why this isn’t better known is beyond me. It’s a little more mature in it’s dealings of relationships, not in a smutty way, but emotionally, so be warned. - Title: The Bride of The Water God - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Ongoing/ 123 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Drama, Fantasy, Romance, Shoujo, Historical-Fiction - Summary: The village is under drought, so they decide to sacrifice a young girl, Soah, to the water god, where he will take her as his bride. Once Soah meets him, he is not what she expects at all. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The artwork is absolutely breathtaking in it’s beauty. It is the prettiest manhwa/manga I have yet to see. The story as well, it is subtle in explorations of the political dealings and magic that govern the alternate world of the gods. Cons: The characters can be a little bland, and the drama can be stretched, but it’s compensated by it’s incredible art. Overall: I would try it, because although the first few volumes are definitely going to be loved, whether you like the later installments is purely down to personal taste in storytelling. - Title: Boku wa Kiss de Uso wo Tsuku - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 10 chapters - Tags/ Genres: Comedy, School, Shoujo, Harem - Summary: Meiko falls asleep in the library, but while she is half asleep, she feels someone kiss her. When she wakes up, there are multiple candidates, and all of them seem likely. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The artwork is refreshingly clean looking, without an abundance of frighteningly large eyes. The guys as well are good looking, and the main girl isn’t a moe sobbing mess, she’s actually quite likeable. The interactions are for the most part, very well done. Cons: Some cringe worthy moments, and the tension isn’t quite what I thought it would be, but it’s forgivable. Overall: I usually despise harems for their tendency to load a manga with a bunch of guys for fanservice only to end unsatisfactorily or have no plot at all to begin with, but this is a really well done example of what a reverse harem should be like. Edited June 22, 2014 by aquaisra Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Janet 99 Posted July 21, 2013 Share Posted July 21, 2013 Isn't Horimiya labelled shounen? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
North and South 4,680 Posted July 21, 2013 Author Share Posted July 21, 2013 (edited) - Title: Coelacanth - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 8 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Shoujo, Mystery, Psychological - Summary: Hisano remembers how ten years ago, an explosion killed two people at her apartment. She also remembers how she met a boy, covered in blood, who dropped a toy scale from a fish shaped compact, and she has kept it. Now in high school, one of her teachers has been murdered, and as she and her friend Kentarou investigate, the pieces start to click together. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: This is absolutely incredible. Another one of you must read, I don’t know why it isn’t well known, because it’s amazing. The art is clean, sharp and riveting, but it is the story that drives everything and you get really caught up in it. This is also a bit more mature in it’s themes, not in THAT way, but it’s definitely a bit twisted. I won’t spoil no more. READ IT. Cons: Um. None. Overall: It is amazing. I can’t say anything else. - Title: Hana Ni Arashi - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 11 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Comedy, Romance, Shoujo - Summary: Riko has always had unnerving flexibility, so she’s a little bit of a freak amongst her class. She’s tried to keep it under check, to live a normal life, but when ridiculously ostentatious Ran comes along, he makes sure that her life remains anything but normal - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The artwork here is very clean and sharp, and the character designs are all elegantly designed. This isn’t a typical fluffy shoujo either This girl has guts. Despite the opposing personalities of the mains, their romance is very real, it isn’t forced at all, and that, I believe, is the main reason why this manga succeeds so well. Cons: It’s a little short as far as story goes, but it definitely leaves a lasting and satisfying impression. Overall: It’s a jack-of-all-trades really, and I don’t see how anybody could dislike it. It’s certainly one of my favorites. - Title: Honey Mustard - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Discontinued/ 23 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Comedy, Romance, Shoujo - Summary: Go Ara thought that she would finally get the chance to confess to the guy she likes, but instead she ends up with a misunderstanding big enough to cause her to get an arranged marriage to a random guy. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: This is just too funny, too cute, but surprisingly believable. I usually hate arranged marriage plots, but this was handled in a sincere manner, and the main characters are both adorable. The supporting characters as well, they are dealt with the respect they deserve, so that they are fully fleshed out and realized. Home to my favorite manga character ever, the Grandpa. He is my senior role model. Cons: Obviously. It’s discontinued. But the story is so good, that I think it a shame if I don’t recognize and love the effort placed into it. Also it goes in pretty far, so it is pretty satisfying. The art is old. Like really old style, but I quite like it, as I find the proportions a lot better looking. Overall: I cried tears of blood when I learned this was discontinued. But it still remains my favorite forced marriage story ever, and I would still recommend for people to try it out. - Title: Kingyo Sou - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 8 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Drama, Shoujo - Summary: Asuka fell in love after hearing the drumming of the taiko drums. She later learns that Masami, the drummer, is deaf, and is a painfully closed person, something which Asuka must overcome if she wished to be with him. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The main girl is the typical bubbly heroine, but she’s not overbearing or annoying, she’s legitimately cute. The relationship between the two also, the problems that arise are handled sweetly, and not overly dramatic, but are touching. Cons: Sometimes the situations were a little over the top, some eye rolls over the peppiness, but nothing too bad. Overall: A good read, an especially pure love story, and quite a touching one at that. - Title: Mixed Vegetables - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 54 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Comedy, Romance, Shoujo, Slice of Life - Summary: Hanayu’s parents have a bakery, but she wants to become a sushi chef. Meanwhile. Hayato’s parents own a sushi restaurant, but he really wants to be baking sweets. How will they reconcile? - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: Art is adorable, the rivalry between the two is really well done, he main lead girl isn’t annoying, she’s extremely relatable, and this is just all types of cute. Plus it has a lot of beautiful drawings of food. Cons: It can be overly dramatic at times. But this is shoujo. Overall: Nice cute shoujo fluff. But well done fluff. - Title: Sakura Irony - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 6 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Comedy, Romance, School, Shoujo - Summary: Chiho has loved her teacher, but is painfully aware that their age does not allow for them to be together. She confessed years ago to a guy, but that went awfully, but now she sees that she won’t ever be truly be able to forget that. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The main girl is relatable in her struggles of finding herself drawn to a more mature man but unable to act upon it. Also the building up of the relationship is handled with subtely and honesty. It introduces a number of old shoujo staples in terms of plot, but they are all well handled, and the result is truly touching. Cons: The art work is a little lacking, and sometimes the main girl is a little too sensitive, but myeh. Overall: I really liked the progression of the couple here. It drove the story, instead of being the opposite way around the result being a very raw, and memorable love story. - Title: Tsukiyo Zoushi - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 4 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Fantasy, Shoujo, Supernatural - Summary: Tsukiko can see spirits, and is sent to a village, which has been plagued by problems. However once she gets there, things aren’t what they seem. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The art. It is gorgeous. Not in a shoujo sparkly way either. The characters are fully brought to life with it’s unique style, and despite the short length of the series, it remains extremely memorable. The story as well, it’s packed full of action. There is plenty going on here, and the world is incredibly realized. The characters as well, they are varied, memorable, and likeable. Cons: There should be more. Overall: This is my favorite manga series ever. It shall probably remain that way as well. There is so much heart packed into this small series that I don’t even need extra chapters or such to revisit the world it creates. I’m reading one right now as well, and it looks VERY promising. So I’ll edit this later. - Title: Annarasumanara - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 27 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Mystery, drama, Romance, School, Slice of Life, Psychological - Summary: Yoo Ee is a young girl, who always has just wanted to grow up, because the grown ups around her have proven themselves to be incompetent. She has to take care of her sister, alone, whilst fending off poverty. But when she meets the strange magician who runs the theme park, she begins to question everything. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: This is probably the most overused compliment on this list. But the art is GORGEOUS. Little splashes of colour here and there to give rise to new meanings. The story line is deep, and movingly told. This is just on another level of perfection. Cons: None. This is amazing. Overall: Another manhwa that I quite literally could not put down. Fans of Paradise Kiss will like this one, but tbh, I think anyone would like this. Edited June 22, 2014 by aquaisra Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
North and South 4,680 Posted July 21, 2013 Author Share Posted July 21, 2013 (edited) Isn't Horimiya labelled shounen? It is shounen, because it's serialized in a magazine whose demographic is aimed at boys, but the work itself can cross over to shoujo in terms of themes and artwork really easily, so I just put it in. Edited July 23, 2013 by aquaisra Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Kami_removed Posted July 21, 2013 Share Posted July 21, 2013 (edited) hana to akuma anyways i own hana ni arashi kekeke Edited July 21, 2013 by Hamster Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Voldemin 541 Posted July 21, 2013 Share Posted July 21, 2013 http://onehallyu.com/index.php?/topic/744-official-animemangamanhwamanhuaetc-recommendation-thread/ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
North and South 4,680 Posted July 21, 2013 Author Share Posted July 21, 2013 http://onehallyu.com/index.php?/topic/744-official-animemangamanhwamanhuaetc-recommendation-thread/ I asked shay beforehand for permission to make a separate thread, because this is more of a review of series that I found good, instead of listing out recommendations to a specific person~ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
saekutoxxx 708 Posted July 21, 2013 Share Posted July 21, 2013 ohh thank you I'll check them out!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
North and South 4,680 Posted July 22, 2013 Author Share Posted July 22, 2013 hana to akuma anyways i own hana ni arashi kekeke Hana to Akuma was super super cute~ Lucky you, aghhh so jealous. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
North and South 4,680 Posted July 22, 2013 Author Share Posted July 22, 2013 (edited) - Title: Hana No Namae - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Complete/20 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Drama, Shoujo, Romance - Summary: Chouko lost her parents when she was very young, and was taken in by a relative of hers, the handsome, yet brooding novelist Kei. He's a dark man, and at first Chouko finds him scary, but as mirrored by the garden she cultivates, she slowly starts to bloom under his influence. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: This is a delicate, tender story. The characters are all very well developed, with a couple of exceptions, and although this is shoujo, it shows a remarkable amount of depth. The artwork can be a little messy, but it's style is very fitting of the story. The running metaphor of the flower garden gives much more insight into the work as well. Cons: The main girl can be a bit of a Mary Sue, and IMO, lacked depth, but she serves her purpose well enough, which is to draw out the character of the novelist Kei. Overall: This is a good shoujo manga, but this is not the typical cutesy type. Nor is it downright gritty realistic as Ceolacanth is. However, I think that for those of you who enjoy forbidden relationship type stories, and also for those of you who like more angsty type stories, you will like this. Of course, trying the story out, even if you fall under neither of these categories, never hurts either, because I found it to be very, very good. - Title: Kon no Ki Konoha - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 1 Chapter - Tags/ Genres: Fantasy, Romance, School Life, Shoujo - Summary: Akino met the boy in the tree when she was very young, but he only comes out in the autumn, so each year she waits for him. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The artwork is fluid, and suits the overall mood of the story. The characters all have undeniable presence and personality despite the limited amount of time allotted to them due to this being a one shot. The story has an almost alternate reality type feel, set in the real world, but with fantastical elements, and it's very convincing. You will be supremely moved by this, of that I have no doubt. Cons: None. Perfection should be recognized. Overall: I think fans of Ghibli films will really like this, it has the same surreal feel to it. It's definitely one of the best one shots I have ever read, and it stays with you for a long time. - Title: Watashitachi no Shiawase na Jikan - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 8 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Drama, Slice of Life, Psychological, Romance, Seinen - Summary: Juri was a talented child pianist. But now, after having attempted suicide for the third time, she is roped into helping her aunt, where she goes to the prison where murderers who have been sentenced to death are kept. She meets Yuu, who has been convicted of murdering 3 people and they begin talking. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: I cannot begin to recommend this enough. This is an amazing story. It is perfect. Nothing can fault it. The art is more mature, it suits the tone, and there are little, appreciated aspects in the character designs. the character's themselves, are the focus here, and they are all treated with respect, if not with brutal honesty. Although I will disclaim, I know this is Seinen, but the themes are very similar to most shoujo manga, so I needed to add it in. Cons: Nothing. Overall: I cannot stress how important it is to read this. This is a raw, gripping story, with art that perfectly captures facial expressions. At the end of it, these people will become very close to you, such is the power of its narration, and it opens up a whole new perspective at how to look at people. I also recommend this to both shoujo fans and non shoujo fans. This will be universally loved, of that I am very sure. READ IT. - Title: Film Girl - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 10 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Comedy, Romance, Shoujo, Drama - Summary: Mei is an awkward, and very plain girl, who actually used to be a child model, but she quit abruptly. When coming back from school, she and her friends walk into the famous model Shirou! But what's more surprising is that Shirou knows Mei, and his personality isn't all that it seems to be. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The artwork is clean, crisp and very very pretty. The characters are quite funny, in a rom-com kind of way, and the couple mangaes to have a healthy, but cute relationship, an unfortunate rarity in shoujo manga. Cons: This is cute, which is almost always synonymous with quite shallow. But still rather enjoyable. Overall: This is more of a typical shoujo manga than most of the other recommendations I have given. It's a cute diversion, and the art and story are good enough to keep one's attention, and does create some genuinely touching moments. Edited September 18, 2013 by aquaisra Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
milhouse 163 Posted July 23, 2013 Share Posted July 23, 2013 (edited) Thanks for the list, could use some new manga to read. - Title: Orange (TAKANO ICHIGO) - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: 9 Chapters/Ongoing - Tags/ Genres: Drama, Psychological, Romance, School Life, Shoujo, Slice Of Life, Tragedy - Summary: Main character receives a letter from her future self telling her everything that will happen leading up to the death of a new student in her class. Using the letter she attempts to re-do the past to save that student, meanwhile stepping out of her own shell and ridding herself of the regrets her "adult-self" holds on to. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: Interesting plot with an unpredictable storyline. Although the main character is shy you don't feel frustrated with her when she makes choices, and you really do want to root for her. There's also light humour here and there so the story isn't all that much depressing. Cons: Manga seems to be on hiatus, not sure if the mangaka plans on continuing it. Overall: First shoujo manga in awhile to make me actually anticipate what is going to happen. While the future of it is uncertain, I'm satisfied with the last released chapter as I think it can be interpreted as an open ending. - Title: Tomodachi no Hanashi - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: 3.5 Chapters/Completed - Tags/ Genres: Comedy, Romance, School Life, Shoujo, Slice Of Life - Summary: Eiko and Moe are complete opposites, but are inseparable best friends. The short story details their friendship, and the introduction of a love interest into the girl's lives. (No love triangle, thank gosh). - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: In manga the relationship between friends is seriously underestimated. Girls are always betraying each other, bullying, etc. This manga really shows the value of friendship between the two main characters. Both are likeable despite being complete different, and the same can be said of the male leads. The art style is also simple, but pretty. Cons: Quite short, I wish it was longer. Overall: Cute short manga, definitely worth a read. - Title: Kimi ni Shika Kikoenai - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: 4 Chapters/Completed - Tags/ Genres: Drama, Shounen, Supernatural, Tragedy (Despite being listed as Shounen, it is very easily a shoujo manga, so I'm including it) - Summary: An extremely shy girl with no friends, seeing everyone else constantly using their cell phone begins to imagine a her own. One day the cell phone rings and speaking to the boy on the other line she gains the confidence to speak. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The story is interesting, unique and unpredictable. As well as that, the art style is beautiful and really suits the story the mangaka is telling. I also like how the manga doesn't depend on romance for us to sympathise with the lead characters, and that is quite difficult to do. Cons: I wish the manga was longer so they could've further developed the connection between the two main characters. Overall: It's interesting, and a memorable read. Edited July 23, 2013 by milhouse Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
North and South 4,680 Posted July 24, 2013 Author Share Posted July 24, 2013 (edited) @milhouse Those recs were amazing! Especially Kimi ni Shika Kikoenai. It was almost surreal. - Title: Joou No Hana - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Ongoing/ 3 Chpaters. Again, chapters are very long. - Tags/ Genres: Adventure, Historical, Romance, Shoujo - Summary: Aki is the simple, and good hearted daughter to the king of Akoku, however, she and her mother have been exiled for some time, and as such, are perceived as threats in terms of political power. Aki meets Hakusei, a strange boy with golden hair, and eyes, as she terms them, the colour of the sky. Together the master and slave duo must fight against imminent threat of war, as the nations involved struggle for power both within and outside the palace walls. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: I really liked the character designs for this. Hakusei is meant to be Caucasian, and you can physically see the difference in his looks, which is integral to the story. The OTP here is absolutely adorable, and real in their growing feelings. This also has quite a bit of action going on, this is not a boring plot at all. Also the secondary characters are well set up. The main female lead, she is extremely well done. She is presented with strengths and weaknesses, but she is by no means a damsel in distress. Cons: Some situations felt little forced, but maybe I'm just not used to the pacing of historical dramas. Overall: I think for people who like historical dramas, as well as people who like strong female leads will really like this. I'm actually really excited to see where this series goes, it's got a lot of good things going for it. - Title: Yumemiru Taiyou - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Ongoing/ 37 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Romance, Shoujo - Summary: Shimana decides to run away from home, but as she is thinking of where to go, she meets a strange guy clad in a kimono who suddenly offers a place to stay. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: This series is FUNNY. Wow. I was guffawing at the facial expressions and zingers that some of these guys were throwing out. The hilarity of it was what primarily induced me to keep reading. Also the main relationship here is pretty convincing and almost cavity-inducing cute. The main girl is also pretty likeable, she isn't one of those annoying doting sempai sempai types, and the varied cast of secondary characters, are for the most part, done just as well as the main couple. I really like this art as well. It's expressive, cute, but not moe moe. Cons: I really had to debate putting this one up. Because despite my bias for it, I've found my new favourite manga bishie, this manga has flaws. Some situations literally had me cringing. And this is a true shoujo. As in, you will have probably seen most of the plot devices used here. But as the vomit worthy moments were extremely sparse, and for the most part this was highly entertaining, I decided to put it up anyways. Overall: This is a fluffy shoujo, with all it's loveable rom com action. What sets this on apart however, is beautiful art style, and extremely likeable characters, whose progressions and interactions are very natural despite the plot resorting to some downright cliche shoujo action. I would caution this as being one of those things people should try. - Title: Shinbunbu no Komatsu-san - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 4 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Romance, School Shoujo - Summary: Komatsu works as the passionate school newspaper photographer, she's always out and about trying the catch the latest scandal of who's dating who. So when Aoi-kun, the student council president comes along to ask her out, she's shocked. And rather unsure of the whole idea as well. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The artstyle here is downright cute. Plus it's very cleanly done, and the character designs are really memorable. Finally, a shoujo heroine who dresses with personality! The characters themselves here, are quite understated, in a good way. There are no EHHHHH??!! type moments, at least not during important times in the story, and the characters are interconnected in a natural manner, just like as one would expect in a school. Cons: I found it to be a bit short for my liking, but the end was satisfying enough. Overall: This kind of reminds me of Disney's Filmore, with the whole career at school type deal, but it a shoujo way. It's very well done, and the relationships are developed very naturally. Edited July 24, 2013 by aquaisra Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
North and South 4,680 Posted August 4, 2013 Author Share Posted August 4, 2013 - Title: Nakanmon! - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Complete/ 16 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Comedy, Romance, School, Shoujo - Summary: Hirahara just moved to Tokyo from Hiroshima, but she's late for her very first day of school, and manages to get 5 other people late as well. Somehow, they become friends, and learn more about each other. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The art here is really well done, in that people's character designs are used well throughout the story, and are used in their development. So if someone is tall/ short/ pretty etc, it will be mentioned by other characters and used to further develop the story, something which I really liked. The supporting characters here are also all well developed, and the interactions are really lifelike and real. I also really liked how the manga took the overused concept of a crybaby heroine and actually used it as a plot device convincingly, so that it wasn't irritating, but actually interesting, because it gave a convincing explanation for it. There are some really angsty/ jealous/ feels inducing moments as well, but the relationships are all kept very natural. This was a really good example of a typical shoujo stereotype, the new girl at school concept, being done right. Cons: I feel like it could have/ should have been longer. Also, while the art is clean, and I like it's stylization, at some points it was a little messy looking. Overall: This is a really good read. I've already read it twice. The characters are all well portrayed, and the romance aspect of it isn't overdone, despite being the main focus of the series, because it flows very very naturally. Highly recommended. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
North and South 4,680 Posted August 8, 2013 Author Share Posted August 8, 2013 - Title: Hyakujuu Kingdom - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 5 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Shoujo, Comedy, School - Summary: The school president, Shishio, has caused a record decrease in the number of incidents at a troubled school, but that's only because he's been treating fire with fire. But vice pres momoko won't stand for it anymore, she won't allow him to continue on with his rule breaking ways. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The best thing about this manga is the art. it reminds me of Hana ni Arashi, maybe it's the same mangaka idk. Very cleanly done, and the style is refreshingly elegant. Female lead is strong, yet realistically flawed. Male lead is damn hot, and his bromance with his gang is cute/ funny. Cons: There is strongly suggested romance, but it is not overt, or even the main focus. It is prevalent though and really cute. But do not expect a bunch of flowery rose petal scenes in this. I still enjoyed it a lot. It's way too short for me though especially as all the characters were very strong and I felt deserved more time to shine. Overall: A very good short series. Fans of Hana ni Arashi will really like this. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
North and South 4,680 Posted August 13, 2013 Author Share Posted August 13, 2013 - Title: Red River - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 96 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Action, Adventure, Shoujo, Romance, Historical, Fantasy, Supernatural - Summary: Yuri is a normal girl who's just received a confession from the guy of her dreams, but one day she sees that whenever she approaches water, weird things start to happen. Suddenly, she is pulled down into the water by some unknown force, and finds herself transplanted back into Ancient times to a great Kingdom in present day Mongolia. How will she survive, and will she ever go back home? - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: This story is incredible. Extremely well paced, the action and romance are extremely realistic and gripping. There are plenty of historical references, and it is just drawn on an epic and grand scale. Another really well done thing about this story is that it isn't sugary cute cute where everyone has a happy ending. The heroine is forced to make very difficult decisions, and it is a very harsh look of just how cruel the ancient world could be sometimes. There is also great tension created in the story, because the antagonist and goal of the story remains very clear throughout, making each and every page count. The heroine here as well, she's great, an amazing shoujo lead who's not only bad ass but also intelligent. Finally, a clear example of how personality can win over looks, and characterization here is at it's finest. Cons: I'll admit. It took me three attempts to try and read this, even though I had heard good things about it. Just because of it's art. It is old style, however, it is VERY sharp, and landscapes and historical settings are portrayed in breath taking detail. Once I had gotten over my prejudice of the style, I actually found myself loving it's beauty, and appreciating it. Plus, after about 5 chapters, I was sold anyways, and could not put it down. Another very important note is that it doesn't shy away in it's depictions of nudity nor in scenes of a sexual nature. things aren't shown explicitly, but it is all very heavily implied. Also true to the time, the females can be very scantily clad, so if it makes you uncomfortable, I know it took me a while to get used to it popping up, you have been warned. Noted though, is that it is possible for you to skip through these scenes, and you will still throughly enjoy and understand the story. I should know because I did just that. Overall: This is definitely a must read. The story is absolutely riveting, and it truly has a timeless and unparalleled quality in transporting you back to that time. The plot here is anything but cliche, in fact it uses the transposition of time periods in a downright clever manner, and Yuri's mentality of that of a girl who has suddenly been taken back in time is also realistically portrayed. - Title: Otogimoyou Ayanishiki - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 21 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Shoujo - Summary: Ever since Suzu was a child she could see spirits, and she was often victimized for it. However when her "Toto-Sama" or the man she takes up as her surrogate father appears, he teaches her how to use her skills to exorcise demons. Years later, Suzu still has the flute, the only relic her Toto-sama left her before he disappeared, and inside it lies, unbeknownst to her, a spirit that is waiting for her to summon it. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The story is impressive in it's dealing with the action. The fights here are really well done, and this can get downright creepy. It's also a good length, the drama isn't too dragged out, but it is a satisfying length. The relationship aspect here is also dealt with convincingly, and effectively portrays the struggles the two are going through. The drawings are also very pretty and elegant. Cons: The style of the drawings is a little old, but it definitely doesn't impede the story. Suzu isn't annoying, nor is she whiny, but she doesn't do very much, and the story's primary focus thus doesn't really end up on her, but rather the male characters around her. It's a small gripe though, because she doesn't do anything to detract form the story, it's just that she doesn't do anything to add to it either. Overall: If you like reading historical manga or like reading about demons, I would highly recommend this to you. It's an extremely well done story, with the romance not overpowering or detracting from the experience, but actually adding to it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
North and South 4,680 Posted August 21, 2013 Author Share Posted August 21, 2013 - Title: Nijiiro Days - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Ongoing/ 9 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Shoujo, Romance, School, Comedy - Summary: 4 boys, all friends, in high school, all with distinct personalities; a playboy, an otaku, a purist, and a sadist. They deal with their own adventures and romances in their day to day lives. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: Art work is beautiful, and so pretty. I believe this is the same mangaka as Shinbunbu no Komatsu-san as the style is similar. This is also a REALLY funny manga, the guys all have really different personalities and they are all well highlighted, and they interact well together. The romance is also well played out, I usually dislike series from a male POV, but I instantly liked this one. Cons: This isn't like the daily lives of high school boys, where a very boy like mentality pervades through the work, you can definitely tell this is a shoujo manga series. I would have liked to see the guys acting a little more masculine, because as of now their interactions and conversations have all been very fluffy/clean and cute, and not really indicative of how guys actually talk amongst themselves. Overall: I liked this series straight off the bat, it was funny and really easy to get into, although I hope in future chapters it'll show more of a manly side to some of the boys, I still really like it overall. - Title: Stand Up! - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Ongoing/ 9 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Shoujo, School, Romance - Summary: Furuya has always been too tall, so she's never been confident about herself. Nowadays, she can't stop thinking about the guy who sits next to her in class, Harada. He's popular, tall, and very kind to her. They slowly become closer. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The art is fluid, dynamic, and really suits the dreamlike mood of teh overall story. The story itself here is very simple, but it is meant to be so, the characters are presented plainly and as who they are. This is a very honest look at what it is to fall in love for the first time while you have insecurities of your own.And the story works, it works because it's not making itself out to be more than it actually is with some sort of hidden agenda. It's a much more delicate story than most shoujo manga, where everything is big eyed, glossy, and the prince of the school is covered in rose petals. The characters are all likeable and amazingly relatable. Cons: Well, there is not much to judge it on as of yet. Will have to wait and see where the mangaka takes this story. I'm quite anxious as to the character developmeny of Harada, the main male lead, because the female lead had been characterized astoundingly well in comparison. Overall: This will depend on tastes I believe. I absolutely adored this manga, but I like more realistic and melancholy series as a general rule. This is not rom-com, nor is it anything but a story about a girl falling in love with teh guy who sits next to her. I would recommend trying it, because I understand that this may not be for everyone, as some may find it boring. - Title: Black Peach Flower - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Complete/ 1 chapter - Tags/ Genres: Shoujo, Fantasy, Romance - Summary: A girl goes to crazy guy in the lab at her school. Her reason, she need a love potion. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The art here is quirky, almost tilted? It really suits the story in any case. The story itself here as well, for a one shot, it's pretty mind boggling and clever. A very cute and unique oneshot. Cons: I seriously wish there was more of it. It's natural, I feel, to want more in the case of one shots. But the ending was very satisfactory anyways. Overall: Absolutely loved it, definitely one of the best shoujo one shots I've read. - Title: Sugar - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 1 Chapter - Tags/ Genres: Shoujo, School, Romance - Summary: The boyfriend dreams about having the perfect shoujo romance, he's much more feminine in this respect compared to his girlfriend. She thinks he's adorable, but will things really remain in the idealized way that he wants them to? - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: A very pretty and unique artstyle and a unique story. Usually the guys in shoujo mangas are about as well characterized as the girls, which is certainly not a compliment, so to have a hero who has such a unique personality trait is very interesting. It's also handled very well in the story, there is no unnecessary drama, an the couple has a very healthy relationship thanks to the female lead being quite well rounded. Cons: Shoujo fluff. Nothing more really. Overall: Cute little oneshot that diffrentiates itself from others for its art style and unique story. - Title: Torikagosou no Kyou mo Nemutai Juunintachi - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: completed/ 21 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Shoujo, Drama, Romance - Summary: Kizuna is a trouble maker, she roams the streets at night playing a dangerous game with her "friends", where she extorts money out of middle aged men. One day, the game goes too far, and while she's contemplating if she still wants to do it, she's approached by a women who offers her a job to become a model for the famous painter Yuusei. A nude model that is. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: Very clean, pretty art. the characters all have very distinct personalities, and it shows through their designs. The dialogue here is also very lifelike, mature, and the story as well is very well done. The main female character is amazing, she is likeable, strong, but relateable. The romance here is good, it is definitely the primary focus, but it is naturally developed. There is plenty of drama here as well, but because the main female character is written so well, the tension is welcomed. Cons: Some situations and characters were definitely not done as well as the overall manga is, at times they bordered on the cliche. there is nudity here, obviously, but, ehem, nothing is shown? Anyways, I felt comfortable reading this manga, but again, that may not be the case for everyone. Overall: Interesting read, I really loved the main character. At times I felt like the manga could have been better, or would have been better had the author omitted/ changed some situations, but overall it was pretty well done. - Title: World End Garden - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Complete/ 1 Chapter - Tags/ Genres: Shoujo, Fantasy, Romance, Tragedy - Summary: Tete is an orphan in the village who is banished to teh frozen outside after the village cannot support her anymore. She meets Hild, a monster, who after saving her declares he will kill her as he had once killed her parents once she is healthy enough. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: Nice art, a very haunting yet sweet story. It stays with you. Despite being a oneshot all teh characters are wonderfully fleshed out and developed, as is the world they inhabit. Cons: I feel like a more mature art style would have suited this story better. Overall: An interesting and thought provoking one shot. I would recommend to people who like fantasy novels especially, it has that type of feeling. - Title: Yume Kurai - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Complete/ 1 Chapter - Tags/ Genres: Drama, Shoujo, Supernatural - Summary: Akane begins to see a tapir in her dreams, or someone who eats nightmares. He stays there, until she can give him a proper nightmare. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: This story is incredible, and absolutely beautiful. It is actually absolutely amazing. It's dream like, and has great emotional buildup. The characters grow on you very quickly, and the pacing in this is impeccable. Cons: The art is a little messy, but it is still well done. Overall: This is a bittersweet story, and it is something I would recommend to everyone. I love Ken Saitou's works, and this is just a great example of his amazing ability to tell beautiful, thought provoking, yet satisfying one shots. UGHHH. I'll look through my list for more titles later. Wayy too lazy RN. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
North and South 4,680 Posted September 14, 2013 Author Share Posted September 14, 2013 Ok, it's been a long time since I've updated. But that's actually because I've started running a blog about this here, and I was basically catching up to the recs that i had already posted here. But I'll be updating my recs here as well as I update my blog, so it should all work out. - Title: Sekine-kun no Koi - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Updating/ 15 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Josei, Drama, Romance, Slice of Life - Summary: Sekine works at a big company, he’s rich and handsome, and very popular with women, until they realize that he’s actually lacks passion and is decidedly removed. He doesn’t think he can change, nor does he really want to, until he meets an old man who claims he can teach him magic tricks and his grand daughter, a happy person who runs a knitting store. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The art work is really well done, it's mature in it's proportions, but it's still cartoonish enough so that it's not jarring The dialogue is also lifelike, mature, thoughtful, and really pulls the story along. I also like how the mentality of the other characters is really lifelike, like the main female lead is observant of some things, but completely naive at others. The characters are complex, they aren't put into sterotypical moulds, and as a result, the rather simple story is made actually very interesting Cons: There is a random sex scene that completely caught me by surprise. Not between the main couple, but yeah, this is Josei, and maybe I shouldn't have been as shocked as I was. i skipped over it, and it didn't affect my enjoyment of the story, but it was just very random. Overall: i can't wait for more chapters to come out for this, it's a really cute and enjoyable story. - Title: Mademoiselle Butterfly - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 9 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Shoujo, Romance, Historical, Drama - Summary: The girl was sold to a geisha house when she was very young. Ever since she was there, Chinatsu, the tattooer, was always kind to her and who always draws butterflies for her. One day, a rich customer comes in, inquiring after her. Is it too late for her to do as she has always secretly wished? - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: This story is incredible. It's subtle but heart wrenching at the same time, and it stays with you for a long time afterwards. Cons: I feel like the artstyle should have been more realistic for such a raw and gripping story, but it's still pretty and clean enough that its enjoyable. Overall: Love this manga, it's got complexity and maturity that is rarely seen in shoujo, and would rival that of literature, much like Hana No Namae that I recommended before but this is a little more approachable for most people unlike Hana no Namae. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
pelusa 741 Posted September 18, 2013 Share Posted September 18, 2013 Thank you for this, it's been so long since I read manga and some of these look pretty good. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
North and South 4,680 Posted September 18, 2013 Author Share Posted September 18, 2013 (edited) Thank you for this, it's been so long since I read manga and some of these look pretty good. Np, I'm really happy to hear that the list helped! Moar recs. - Title: Aruosumente - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Ongoing/ 12 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Shoujo, Fantasy, Supernatural, Magic - Summary: Reguna is a dream seer, the last of the once great tribe the “Oraclesâ€. He now works for the naive but good hearted king. One night, he sees a dream foreboding of harm to the king. In order to decipher it’s meaning he travels to the world where dreams and reality are interchangeable, and deep into political and spiritual intrigue. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The art here is clean and gorgeous. The story here as well, it's really deep and well written fantasy in essence. It also deals with political conspiracies and court drama in a mature manner whilst still having some light hearted moments throughout. It's just all around a really well written story. Cons: Because this is well written, this can get pretty text heavy. There's no romance either, this isn't shonen-ai also, so romance junkies won't get their fix. Overall: This is a highly underrated series despite it's really well developed magic system and dealings with political intricacies. I feel like that may be because this series doesn't focus on romance, but people should know that despite the lack of doki doki moments here, it's a really satisfying and interesting series. - Title: Cat Street - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/37 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Shoujo, Drama, Romance, Slice of Life - Summary: Keito used to be a promising child actress until she had a traumatizing experience which caused her to cast off her ability to bond with others. Now that she is older, she’s become even more acrid, she doesn’t have any friends, nor does she want them. But then she meets the man who runs El Liston, an alternative high school. Can she finally change? - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The line art here is clean, but the main thing here are the characters. They are well fleshed out, believable, varied, and the main girl character especially is amazingly complex, with the story being almost psychological in how it looks at her attempts to try and bond with others. Romance is a big theme here, this is from the mangaka of the famous Hana Yori Dango, but mercifully, the romance here is much better developed and less childish than in HYD. Cons: Art style is a little dated. It's clean, but yes, it is dated. All the characters look good in it though, =__= ehem, specifically the male ones, so yeah, it's not a huge impediment at all. Overall: This is one of those shoujo that is always at the top of the recommendation lists. Yes, her other work may be more well known, but Cat Street is undeniably the better manga. It's frequently listed amongst the best shoujo series of all time. Don't expect something like Uta no Prince- Sama, which is what I was worried I would get when I saw the sort of acting industry type setting. This is squarely a manga that focuses on the characters, and it does the Slice of Life genre extremely well. Dumb stupid personal note. I actually picked the right OTP this time right off the bat. I think the shoujo forces took pity on my list of pathetic never canon OTPs. - Title: Cheese in The Trap - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Ongoing/ 153 Pages. (This is really hard to define, because this is published on an online Korean cafe and each installment is essentially one really long strip of panels. It’s not too long as this would imply though, I read it in about two days.) - Tags/ Genres: Josei, Manhwa, Webtoon, Romance, Psychological, Slice of Life - Summary: Sul has always noticed things that others don’t about people. She’s observant, and always on high alert regarding people’s actions. After she narrowly beats out Jung, the resident popular and perfect senior on campus for the scholarship, she takes time out to observe him more. And she see’s a very different person than what most people see. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: ART. It's all coloured because it's a webtoon and it is gorgeous! Super detailed and dynamic and, I must say, ehem, main male character designs are done very well (BTW, yes my profile picture of patheticness is the blonde guy in the above picture, his name is Baek In Ho and I haven't stanned a manga guy this hard since I was a hormonal pre-teen) Sul is an amazing female lead, she balances between being sarcastic, sharp, funny, and highly observant. The webtoon really does well however, in voicing our inner thoughts, you know what you secretly think about when you see someone doing something, but you can't actually say. The story here as well, it's cute in the romance aspect, btu there is always this underlying darker pulse, and it just makes for something that you actually can't wait for. Cons: NONE. Just that it's still updating gah. Overall: Yes, it is very VERY good. read it. I'm going to copy and paste a REALLY important thing off my blog though, so please take note! "If you see this manhwa on a manga reader site. Ask them to take it down! The subbing group has a special way to release scans which allows for the original author to make money as the number of hits on her site = amount she receives, so please, respect both the author and the subbing group!" The scanlation group is OddSquad, please follow their instructions on how to read the manhwa properly. The author gets money based on the number of hits on her Naver Cafe, so they have devised a method where she gets her visits while we get out translations, it's ingenious. Please respect the hard work of the author and the scanlation group and follow their instructions or else they will drop/ delay the webtoon. - Title: Basara - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ ~100 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Shoujo, Romance, Fantasy, Action, Adventure - Summary:Sarasa was the twin sister to Tatara, who was the child of destiny. But when the Red King attacked, he killed Tatara and the rest of her village, forcing Sarasa to assume her brother’s garb and undertake her true fate as the real child of destiny. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: I actually really love this art style. Yes it's a little dated, but the expressions and shading they all work really well. The story itself is INCREDIBLE. It's a little more than 100 chapters long, there is no filler, the female lead is amazing, there is action, adventure, and a lot of amazingly done romance. It's almost Shakesperean in it's quality and complexity, and the secondary characters are given fantastic amounts of characterization. I cannot impress upon you enough just how outstanding this manga is in every possible way. Cons: The art is older. It's just a fact. But overall, this is truly an epic, and the art style really does grow on you, trust me when I say it does. Overall: I'm not over exaggerating when I say that this is something every shoujo fan should at least try. This is one of the best series in the entire shoujo genre period. Tired of school romances, want some action with your romance, looking for a strong and yet relatable female lead? Look no further. This also had an anime, called the Legend of Basara, so you can check that out as well. - Title: Kanata Kara - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 14 Volumes - Tags/ Genres: Shoujo, Fantasy, Romance, Adventure, Action - Summary: Noriko is just an ordinary school girl, living her life, when one day she is flung back into a time and place where magic and monsters roam. Utterly lost and confused, she doesn’t even understand the language, she meets Izark, a man who keeps talking about the awakening which will cause the sky dragon to destroy the world. What does it all mean, and will Noriko ever go back home? - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: Another Old but Golden series that you shouldn't judge based on what may appear to be older art at first. The line art is clean, and the art is dynamic. But it's the story and characters that pull this along. I read this entire series in a day. It was that good. This is a realistic take on what it would be like to be in another world, Noriko has to learn their language in the manga, and she is a great lead. She's cute, sincerely cute, and she thinks realistically but optimistically, showcasing that you on't have to be annoyingly peppy to be a shoujo manga lead. The romance here is adorable, they are my OTP forever, the storyline is amazing there is a clear and constant threat that's legitimately scary, there is a really well developed magic system etc.~ Cons: None. This is an enduring classic for a reason. Overall: Yes. Read. That is all. Edited September 18, 2013 by aquaisra Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
North and South 4,680 Posted September 24, 2013 Author Share Posted September 24, 2013 (edited) - Title: & - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Ongoing/ 7 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Josei, Drama, Romance - Summary: Aoki is a young woman who has always been relatively unattached to life. She’s never had a boyfriend and she hates being touched. She’s trying to change herself, she’s opened a nail salon that she works part time at, but her no-good boss at work keeps forcing her to confront her fear of physical proximity. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The art. Stunningly detailed yet stylistic. It's a HUGE plus for the manga. I also like how well grounded the characters are, and how the slice of life themes are presented in unique ways without being over the top on the the drama. The relationships are mature but still still relatable. Cons: This is not a fluffy rom-com where the OTP is obvious, the relationships are handled in a much more complex manner than that. Which is good, but can also be frustrating for some people, so it depends on taste. The secondary characters also aren't nearly as well developed as teh mains, at times they ae downright irrelevant. Overall: An extremely well done Josei series that I happened to stumble upon due to luck. It's a sophisticated and really interesting story and the art makes the wait for the next chapters to be released worth it. Should note that if you find this manga hard to find, try an alternate name like "and" or search using the author's name Okazaki Mari. - Title: Kamisama Ga Uso wa Tsuki - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 5 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Seinen, Slice of Life, Romance - Summary: Natsuru is 11, and he has always been popular with the girls in his class, except after he rejected one on Valentine’s Day, they all refuse to talk to him afterwards. However, Suzumara, the tallest girl in the class is a little different. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The art is clean, and innocent/ childlike, which helps build the amazing atmosphere this manga develops. The story as well, it's thought provoking, intense, but still sweet in how it portrays the singular innocence of childhood. Cons: Nothing significant. I wish it had been a little longer though, to show off maybe an epilogue of sorts. Overall: A really interesting Seinen series that a lot of shoujo fans will probably really enjoy. Edited September 24, 2013 by aquaisra Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
North and South 4,680 Posted September 26, 2013 Author Share Posted September 26, 2013 - Title: Apple - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ Oneshot - Tags/ Genres: Shoujo, Fantasy, Comedy, Action - Summary: Satoshi looks like a pretty guy, but he’s actually some sort of experiment gone wrong who has the ability to destroy the world. Despite the heavy title, he actually just wants to live the rest of his life in his peace. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: Art is so so pretty, and the backgrounds are really well done as well. Characters are lively, funny, but the story overall is still strong and touching. It's such a unique series as well. Cons: This should have been longer than 1 chapter. It really should have. There was so much potential in here in terms of characters and story that should have been developed upon. But Alas. Overall: really interesting and memorable little oneshot that is much more unique than the usual shoujo oneshot. - Title: Hanshin - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ Oneshot - Tags/ Genres: Drama, Psychological, Shoujo - Summary: Yudy and Yucy are conjoined twins, but are complete opposites of each other, Yudy is smart but ugly because her nutrient are used up by the beautiful but empty headed Yucy. But are they truly separate, or even truly two unique identities? - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: This story is INTENSE. Extremely dark, a little twisted, it's very short but it leaves a lot of impact. The characters and their psyches are presented extremely well, and their emotions are raw. The character designs as well, they are imbibed with symbolism, and they pack a lot of punch when it comes to emotional impact. Cons: This art is OLD. really old. It's not like a lot of other older shoujo as well where it's still neat and clean despite it's age. But if you can look past the art, you will find a story that's really unique and beautiful despite it's almost gruesome depiction of reality. Overall: Another intersting shoujo oneshot, but with themes I think a lot of people will resonate with or at the very least be fascinated by. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MALEFISEOK 2,672 Posted September 26, 2013 Share Posted September 26, 2013 Bookmarking this thread right now. Thanks for all the recommendations. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Puppet&Puppeter 725 Posted September 30, 2013 Share Posted September 30, 2013 - Title: Natsume Yuujinchou - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: ongoing / 16 volumes - Tags/ Genres : comedy, drama, psycological, supernatural - Summary: this story revolve around Natsume and his cat-like pet which is a youkai. He has a strong power, he can see youkai (a japanese ghost) just like his grandmother, Reiko. His grandma, Reiko, used to 'bully' youkai and bound them through a book with spells. That book name's is The Book of Friend, and now handed down to Natsume.Because of that book, he's being chased everyday by youkais. Natsume spends his days dissolcing the contracts that bind youkai. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: This story is addictive cause it's about Natsume and various youkais with their adventure. Every characters are lovely and endearing. Full of meaningful, heartwarming moments but no romance. Cons: repetitive and slow. The art is a bit rough. - Title: Akagami no Shirayukihime - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: ongoing / 10 volumes - Tags/ Genres : comedy, drama, historical, romance, fantasy - Summary: Shirayuki is a young woman born with unique apple-red hair. After catching word about her hair, Prince Rajin sends orders for her to become his concubine. With nowhere else to go, Shirayuki cuts her hair and escapes to a neighboring country. While traversing through the forests, she meets a young man, Zen, who helps her after she boldly cures his wounds. He soon, however, becomes poisoned by an apple meant for Shirayuki. What will happen to Shirayuki? What is Zen’s true character? A refreshing fantasy story between an optimistic heroine and a prince who constantly stays on her watch. (cr : bakaupdates) - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: The plot isn't too typical of shoujo. It has romance but not much. The art and story are sweet, simple, neat, calming but for the art is so detailed. The pacing is nice and moves along smoothly and surely. Cons: for some peoples will find it bland because of slow development of characters. - Title: Love so Life - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: ongoing / 11 volumes - Tags/ Genres : comedy, drama, slice of life, romance, - Summary: Shiharu is a high-school student who loves kids, lives in an orphanage, and works at a daycare... Until the handsome uncle of two-year-old twins offers her a raise if she'll be their babysitter. Often relying on memories of her mother's actions for guidance, Shiharu quickly finds herself falling in love with her new makeshift family. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: full of sweets, the story itself is very cute with neat, pretty and good arts (which is very shoujoish). It's seems realistic and refreshing. You will bound to love the twins. Cons: slow romance. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Puppet&Puppeter 725 Posted September 30, 2013 Share Posted September 30, 2013 Most of my favorite shoujo mangas have recommended before. I can't be more helpful here. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
North and South 4,680 Posted October 6, 2013 Author Share Posted October 6, 2013 (edited) Most of my favorite shoujo mangas have recommended before. I can't be more helpful here. Natsume Yujinchou and AnS! Yes! I love those series! And I hadn't heard about Love so Life, but thanks to you I'm starting to read it and I'm loving it as well~ They are all great recs! Please, if you find some more, post them up here, because I am loving your choices. Same to everyone else who reads this thread as well. If you have shoujo series that you really like, please post them up! I certainly haven't read anywhere close to all of them, and the one that everyone else here recced were all incredible, and very different from what I usually read. Anyways, I was going to post these earlier, but then the site went down. Randoms. - Title: Nanairo Sekai - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 4 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Shoujo, Oneshots, Romance, Drama, Shonen-ai - Summary: An eclectic mix of oneshots dealing with love at the bus stop to a blooming relationship at the hospital between unlikely individuals - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: I love the art style, it's the same mangaka as Watashitachi no Shiwase na Jikan, and the style is identical, with realistic proportions and very fluid character models. I also liked the self contained yet satisfying nature of the oneshots, it developed the characters and stories fully. Also, these stories are clever. Really clever. They aren't your typical shoujo one shots by a long shot, they are much more sophisticated than that. Cons: None really. Overall: There is a story featuring shonen-ai, however the majority of compilation is about male female pairings. These are very well done oneshots that leave lasting impressions. - Title: Akai Michi - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ Oneshot - Tags/ Genres: Shoujo, Romance, Supernatural - Summary: The girl awakens to find a red string attached to her finger. Where does it lead to? - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: Art is super unique, detailed and realistic which suits the overall story. Cons: I wish it had developed teh story a little more, it was rather predictable, but oh well, it is a one shot after all Overall: An interesting one shot, and one that is beautifully drawn. Note, in Asian cultures, a red string supposedly ties you to your fated person, hence the significance of the red string in teh story. - Title: Love Letter - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 4 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Seinen, Romance, Historical, Drama - Summary: It's the story of a young couple in Japan during WW2 - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: Very seinen like art, meaning it's very clean and crisp, with heavy emphasis upon contrast in toning. Overall a realistic looking piece with elegant character models. The story and it's dialogue as well, it's realistic and hard hitting. Cons: I thought the story was a little predictable. But because there was such an emphasis upon characterization here, teh emotions that were built up were still very raw and gripping. Overall: A beautiful story. However, and should be noted, this is a Japan-centric view of teh conflict. Also contains themes that some people may be sensitive about. If you are offended by such material, you should probably steer clear. - Title: Mielino Kashiwagi - Status/ No. Chapters or Volumes: Completed/ 22 Chapters - Tags/ Genres: Seinen, Drama, Romance - Summary: Kashiwagi has a really unique ability, if she touches you, she can tell who your future love will be! The thing is though, she works at a really strange place called “break-up cafe†and just as the name implies, they get hired in helping people to break up. - Example of Artwork *Avoid Spoilers*: - Recommendations Pros: Again, art is very seinen like, but with more emphasis upon a highly stylized sense. This story is funny, it deals with teh cases in episodic manner, and the variety of the couples lend for some pretty fun moments. The characters are all varied, but yet still well rooted, and teh main girl is amazing. She's not stupid, but she's not over the top in her smarts either/ A regular and relatable girl, who's thoughts and concerns allow the reader to really relate to this wacky world teh mangaka has created. Cons: Sometimes the story gets a little lost in itself, but it's nothing too serious. I also wished they had developed teh main relationship a bit more ugh, but I'll take what I get. Overall: A unique series that is free of those annoying cliche shoujo moments, and filled with clever humour as ell as an interesting premise. This was also made into a highly popular J-Drama, so you can watch that as well if you are inetersted. Sorry that my earlier post was half done. My computer of it's own accord posted it up when I wasn't even finished typing gah. Edited October 6, 2013 by aquaisra Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now