Best Shonen Mangas of 2026

The Shonen Jump Guide to Making Manga is an educational and nonfiction manga book by VIZ MEDIA LLC. It features tips, tricks, and secrets from the creators and editors behind some of the most popular manga in Weekly Shonen Jump, including One Piece, Bleach, and My Hero Academia. The book is perfect for both beginners and veterans who are looking for new tips to sharpen their skills. The commentary and advice from famous manga creators such as Eiichiro Oda and Tite Kubo make this book unique and a must-read for anyone interested in making manga.

"Kagurabachi, Vol. 1" follows Chihiro Rokuhira, a young man driven by vengeance after witnessing his father, a renowned swordsmith, murdered by sorcerers. Armed with his father's final enchanted blade, Chihiro embarks on a quest to reclaim the stolen swords and confront the deadly Hishaku sorcerers linked to his father's demise. This gripping tale combines elements of horror and action, showcasing Takeru Hokazono's talent for storytelling and captivating artwork. What sets this manga apart is its rich emotional depth, as Chihiro's journey is not just about revenge but also about the bonds of family and the impact of loss. A promising start to a thrilling series!"

In Jujutsu Kaisen, Vol. 25, Yuji Itadori grapples with the terrifying consequences of consuming a piece of a demon to save his friend from a cursed spirit. As a war between supernatural forces intensifies, the stakes rise with the looming threat of Ryomen Sukuna's fragments falling into the wrong hands. This volume masterfully intertwines action and suspense, showcasing the clash between Sukuna and Satoru Gojo, two of the strongest sorcerers in history. Gege Akutami's storytelling is compelling and visually stunning, making this installment a must-read for fans. The unique blend of dark fantasy and friendship themes sets Jujutsu Kaisen apart in the manga landscape.

Dragon Ball, Vol. 1 introduces readers to Goku, a young boy with a monkey tail whose life takes an adventurous turn when he meets Bulma, a girl on a quest to gather seven magical Dragon Balls. Each ball holds the power to summon a dragon that grants one wish, but they are scattered across the globe, requiring Goku's super strength to aid her. Akira Toriyama's storytelling combines humor and action, making this manga a timeless classic. The vibrant art and imaginative plot set it apart, ensuring that Dragon Ball remains a beloved cornerstone of fantasy manga.

In Jujutsu Kaisen, Vol. 24, Yuji Itadori's quest to save his friend plunges him into a harrowing supernatural war, where cursed spirits threaten humanity. As military forces clash with these malevolent entities in the culling game, the stakes rise dramatically, particularly with the looming danger of Ryomen Sukuna's power being unleashed. Gege Akutami masterfully weaves action and suspense, showcasing the resilience of jujutsu sorcerers amid chaos. This volume stands out for its gripping narrative and character development, making it a must-read for fans of the genre.

In "Black Clover, Vol. 1," readers are introduced to Asta, a determined boy in a magical world who dreams of becoming the Wizard King despite having no magical abilities. His journey takes a turn when he acquires a rare five-leaf clover grimoire that grants him the power of anti-magic. While Yki Tabata draws inspiration from popular shonen series like "Naruto" and "Bleach," the artwork is engaging, showcasing expressive characters and whimsical magic. Although it may not offer groundbreaking concepts, this volume serves as an accessible entry point for newcomers to the genre, promising potential for growth as the series unfolds.

My Hero Academia, Vol. 1 (1) by Kohei Horikoshi is a captivating manga book that tells the story of a world where 80 percent of the population has superpowers. Middle school student Izuku Midoriya, who is Quirkless, dreams of becoming a hero. However, his dreams seem impossible until he meets All Might, the greatest hero of them all, who gives him a chance to change his destiny. The book is full of action, adventure, and humor. The illustrations are impressive and the characters are well-developed. Overall, My Hero Academia, Vol. 1 (1) is a must-read for fans of fantasy manga books.

In "My Hero Academia, Vol. 40," the stakes escalate as Midoriya and his allies face off against formidable foes in a world where 80 percent of the population possesses superpowers known as "Quirks." The epic rematch between All Might and All For One captivates readers, showcasing the enduring spirit of heroism even in the absence of superpowers. Kohei Horikoshi masterfully blends action, emotion, and character development, making this volume a thrilling addition to the series. The unique premise of a society grappling with both heroism and villainy continues to resonate, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what comes next.

Sakamoto Days, Vol. 15 continues the thrilling saga of Taro Sakamoto, a retired hit man drawn back into the dangerous world he left behind. As former assassins face off in a gripping battle, readers are treated to a blend of intense action and emotional depth, particularly with Akao confronting her aunt's murderer. Yuto Suzuki masterfully weaves a narrative that balances humor and suspense, making this volume a standout in the series. The unique premise of a legendary assassin turned family man adds an intriguing layer, keeping readers engaged as they wonder how Sakamoto will navigate his tumultuous past.

In "Ayashimon, Vol. 1," Maruo, a human with dreams of becoming a manga hero, plunges into the chaotic world of the ayashimon yakuza following the death of the Enma Syndicate’s chairman. As supernatural gangs prepare for war, Maruo teams up with Urara, the chairman’s daughter, to navigate this treacherous landscape. This debut volume showcases Yuji Kaku's knack for blending action, humor, and fantasy, establishing a unique premise where real-life manga tropes collide with the supernatural. Overall, "Ayashimon" stands out for its engaging characters and dynamic storytelling, making it a must-read for manga enthusiasts.