There’s a thread going on at The Engine where Warren Ellis is asking forum members about their favorite manga. I always enjoy discussions like this so I can see what other people are reading and what I might be missing.
And since I haven’t done it in a while, I’ll offer a list of some titles currently in release that I’m really enjoying:
Antique Bakery (Digital Manga Publishing): There’s an abundance of quirkiness, creativity and generosity of spirit that I find lacking in most other yaoi titles. See yesterday’s comments for more.
Cantarella (Go! Comi): You Higuri’s beautiful art helps elevate this supernatural retelling of the twisted lives of the Borgia clan. It’s tense, tawdry, and really easy on the eyes.
Death Note (Viz – Shonen Jump Advanced): Constant twists and turns of plot, caustic humor, and twisted morality make this a real page-turner. You think it can’t get much crazier, but it does.
Fruits Basket (Tokyopop): Murderously manipulative shôjo filled with secrets, hopes and all those good things.
Fullmetal Alchemist (Viz): It’s just a great blend of adventure, suspense, and comedy with indelible characters. There really does seem to be something for everyone in this book, and it deserves its excellent sales.
And here are three that are jockeying for position:
Anne Freaks (ADV): I feel a little bit guilty about being so taken with an ultra-cute, ultra-efficient teen assassin, but I’m eager to see where this goes next.
Eden: It’s an Endless World! (Dark Horse): Anyone who enjoyed Planetes (Tokyopop) should probably give this a try. It’s complex science fiction with a humanistic bent. Plus giant robots!
Nana (Viz – Shojo Beat): I’ll happily read anything by Ai Yazawa. I’ve found it a little slow to start, but I can easily see this book becoming a favorite in short order.
Plus two that don’t come out nearly often enough:
Sgt. Frog (Tokyopop): With only one more volume to come, I’m torn between wanting to put off reading the final chapters of the invasion of Pokopen and wanting the book yesterday.
Yotsuba&! (ADV): Pure bliss. It’s adorable and very funny without being a bit saccharine, a great choice for all ages.