Christmas is approaching, the perfect occasion to introduce the world of manga. Faced with the plethora of titles and the fear of novice readers diving into lengthy series (like One Piece), we offer you a selection of five works—long, short, complete, or ongoing—that should help you find your happiness.
1. For those afraid of long series: Team Phoenix by Kenny Ruiz
This series has it all. First, it’s short—just five volumes—and it concluded this year. It appeals to both expert and new readers and can be enjoyed by anyone from 7 to 77 years old. The story is a space opera that brings together the key characters of Osamu Tezuka’s works. This crossover will delight fans of the father of manga as well as newcomers, culminating in an incredible, brilliant, and reflective ending.
2. For those catching up: My Hero Academia
The cult manga concluded in Japan last August. Its 42nd and final volume will be released in France in summer 2025. For fans of superheroes, powers, friendship, and shonen, this series is a must-read. Brilliantly written and illustrated, it offers an array of incredible characters, epic adventures, and a wealth of emotion, tears, and twists. With 42 volumes, it’s not the longest saga, so don’t hesitate—give the adventures of Izuku and his classmates at Yuei High School as a gift.
3. For fans of Kaizen by Inoxtag: The Summit of the Gods
Inoxtag recently gained attention by filming his incredible ascent of Mount Everest, spotlighting this majestic (albeit slightly polluted) peak that continues to fascinate. Before him, a manga explored the climbers’ souls, their suffering, solitude, madness, and death. The Summit of the Gods by Taniguchi is an initiatory journey, an investigation, and a tale of conquering Everest and other great mountains. This five-volume masterpiece is a compelling read that immerses us in the enigmatic lives of these extraordinary adventurers.
4. For those seeking the most original manga of the moment: Dandadan
Dandadan is an anomaly—a genre-blending masterpiece that shifts seamlessly between laughter and tears, invoking Japanese and pop culture within a story on the fringes of reality. It portrays two high school students in deep disagreement: one believes in aliens, the other in ghosts. When they both discover they are right, they team up, meet colorful characters, and form an improbable group to handle paranormal infiltrations into our world. It’s beautiful, dynamic, creative, and inventive. In less than 10 volumes, it has captivated audiences and already inspired an anime adaptation.
5. For those unafraid of long stories: Shangri-La Frontier
In the world of isekai, there is Shangri-La Frontier and everything else. Katarina’s series redefines the genre’s standards: more beautiful, funnier, more original, and more expansive. As you turn the pages of this manga, you’ll be drawn into a sprawling universe with seemingly endless connections. It delves into video games, players, gaming strategy, emotions, discovery, and friendship—all brought to life by stunning, detail-rich artwork that complements a deep, intricate story full of surprises.
We hope this selection helps you spread happiness this holiday season. The Justfocus team wishes you happy holidays.
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