10+ Best Manga Books for 13-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect manga books for 13-year-olds? Whether they're new to the world of manga or looking to expand their collection, finding age-appropriate and engaging stories can be a bit of a challenge. But don't worry, we've got you covered! Keep reading as we dive into various lists of manga books that are just right for young teens, ensuring they get the best of this beloved genre.

Fun Manga Books for 13-Year-Olds

• My Hero Academia by Kohei Horikoshi
  • Genre(s): Action, Superhero, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: In a world where almost every human has superpowers, a young boy without any powers, Izuku Midoriya, dreams of becoming a hero. His life changes when he is given powers by the greatest hero in the world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring story that emphasizes the importance of perseverance and courage, perfect for motivating young readers.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring heroes and fans of superhero tales.

• Naruto by Masashi Kishimoto
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Fantasy, Martial Arts
  • Synopsis: Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja ostracized by his village, seeks recognition and dreams of becoming the strongest ninja and leader of his village.
  • Why we recommend this book: The series is filled with action and heartfelt stories that explore themes of friendship, resilience, and self-discovery.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy action-packed stories and character development.

• Cardcaptor Sakura by CLAMP
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Fantasy, Romance
  • Synopsis: Sakura Kinomoto accidentally releases a set of magical cards into the world and must retrieve them to prevent catastrophe. Each card grants different magical abilities that she can use.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines magical adventures with lessons on responsibility and the power of friendship.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love magical girls and enchanting stories.

• One Piece by Eiichiro Oda
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy
  • Synopsis: Monkey D. Luffy sets out on a grand adventure to find the legendary treasure known as "One Piece" and become the Pirate King.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun, adventurous tale that teaches about the importance of friendship, dreams, and perseverance.
  • Perfect for: Adventure seekers and those who dream big.

• Haikyu!! by Haruichi Furudate
  • Genre(s): Sports, Drama, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: Shoyo Hinata, inspired by a small-statured pro volleyball player, aims to become a great volleyball player despite his height.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling sports manga that emphasizes teamwork, persistence, and personal growth.
  • Perfect for: Sports enthusiasts and readers who enjoy dynamic character interactions and growth.

• Yotsuba&! by Kiyohiko Azuma
  • Genre(s): Comedy, Slice of Life
  • Synopsis: The manga follows the everyday adventures of a curious and energetic little girl named Yotsuba as she explores the world around her.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's light-hearted and humorous, perfect for providing relaxation and joy to young readers.
  • Perfect for: Kids and those young at heart who enjoy laughter and life's simple pleasures.

Educational Manga Books for 13-Year-Olds

• Silver Spoon by Hiromu Arakawa
  • Genre(s): Comedy, Slice of Life, Educational
  • Synopsis: This manga follows Yuugo Hachiken, a city boy who enrolls in an agricultural high school. Despite his initial reluctance, Hachiken learns about the challenges and rewards of farm life.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Agricultural knowledge, responsibility, personal growth
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an insightful look into agricultural life and the hard work behind food production, combined with humor and life lessons.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in farming, animals, and stories about personal development.

• Cells at Work! by Akane Shimizu
  • Genre(s): Educational, Comedy
  • Synopsis: This unique manga personifies cells in the human body, focusing on a red blood cell and white blood cell as they work to keep the body healthy.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Biology, human body knowledge
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a fun and engaging way to learn about human biology and the importance of health.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring doctors, biologists, or any reader curious about how their body works.

• The Manga Guide to Physics by Hideo Nitta, illustrated by Keita Takatsu
  • Genre(s): Educational, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: This manga uses engaging storytelling and characters to explain the principles of physics, from Newton’s laws to the basics of thermodynamics.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Physics concepts, problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It breaks down complex physics concepts into understandable and relatable scenarios.
  • Perfect for: Students who find traditional textbooks challenging and anyone interested in learning physics in a fun way.

• Barakamon by Satsuki Yoshino
  • Genre(s): Comedy, Slice of Life
  • Synopsis: A young, talented, and somewhat narcissistic calligrapher, Handa Seishuu, is sent to a remote island as punishment for his actions in Tokyo. There, he learns about life's simpler pleasures and finds inspiration in his interactions with the island's residents.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural awareness, artistic inspiration, personal growth
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming story that teaches about the importance of community, humility, and finding inspiration in unexpected places.
  • Perfect for: Artists, writers, and anyone needing a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Challenging Manga Books for 13-Year-Olds

• Attack on Titan by Hajime Isayama
  • Genre(s): Action, Dark Fantasy, Post-Apocalyptic
  • Synopsis: Humanity is on the brink of extinction as giant humanoid creatures known as Titans prey on humans. Eren Yeager, along with his friends, joins the fight to protect what remains of humanity.
  • Why this book is challenging: The series deals with complex themes such as survival, morality, and the harsh realities of war.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers intense action and deep storytelling that challenges readers to think about difficult ethical questions and the nature of humanity.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy intense, thought-provoking narratives and dark fantasy.

• Death Note by Tsugumi Ohba, illustrated by Takeshi Obata
  • Genre(s): Thriller, Mystery, Supernatural
  • Synopsis: A high school student, Light Yagami, discovers a mysterious notebook that allows him to kill anyone whose name he writes in it. With it, he decides to rid the world of criminals, sparking a cat-and-mouse game with authorities.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features complex characters and moral dilemmas, requiring readers to think critically about justice and power.
  • Why we recommend this book: Death Note offers a gripping plot and raises questions about morality and justice that are relevant in real life.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love psychological thrillers and moral complexities.

• Fullmetal Alchemist by Hiromu Arakawa
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Fantasy, Steampunk
  • Synopsis: Two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, use alchemy in their quest to find the Philosopher's Stone to restore their bodies after a failed attempt to bring their mother back to life using alchemy.
  • Why this book is challenging: The series explores themes of sacrifice, the consequences of one's actions, and the philosophy of equivalent exchange.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines a rich, imaginative setting with a deeply emotional and philosophically engaging story.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in a blend of adventure, fantasy, and philosophical questions.

• The Promised Neverland by Kaiu Shirai, illustrated by Posuka Demizu
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Thriller, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: Children at Grace Field House have lived an idyllic life, but when they learn the dark and horrifying secret behind their orphanage, they must plan a risky escape to save themselves.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents complex puzzles and strategies, along with psychological depth and high stakes.
  • Why we recommend this book: This series is thrilling and intellectually engaging, encouraging readers to think strategically and empathize with characters.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy suspenseful stories and brain-teasing plots.

• Vinland Saga by Makoto Yukimura
  • Genre(s): Historical, Adventure, Drama
  • Synopsis: Set in Viking times, the story follows Thorfinn, a young warrior caught up in the violence and turmoil of his time, as he seeks revenge against the man who killed his father.
  • Why this book is challenging: It delves into historical contexts with complex characters and moral ambiguity.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a brutal yet accurate depiction of Viking history mixed with deep character development and epic storytelling.
  • Perfect for: Readers fascinated by history, especially the Viking era, and those who appreciate intricate plots and character arcs.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the vibrant world of manga and you're around 13 years old, developing good reading habits can really enhance your experience. Here are some fun exercises designed to help you get the most out of your manga books. Let's get started!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much manga you want to read each day or week.
  • How it helps: Helps you stay consistent and makes reading a regular part of your life.
  • Tips: Start with small, manageable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Manga Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home for reading manga.
  • How it helps: Reduces distractions and enhances your focus and enjoyment.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s comfortable and has good lighting.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the manga you read with friends or family members.
  • How it helps: Improves understanding and retention, and you might gain new insights.
  • Tips: Join or start a manga club at school to find peers with similar interests.

• Keep a Reading Journal
  • What it is: Maintain a journal to note down thoughts and favorite quotes.
  • How it helps: Helps establish a routine and keep track of progress.
  • Tips: Make it a habit of filling out the journal every day.

• Use a Vocabulary List
  • What it is: Keep a list of new or interesting words you find in your manga.
  • How it helps: Enhances your vocabulary and understanding of the story.
  • Tips: Review this list regularly to reinforce new words.

• Read Out Loud
  • What it is: Read your manga aloud when you can.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and can make the reading experience more engaging.
  • Tips: Try doing different voices for different characters to make it fun.

These exercises aren't just about improving how you read manga—they're about making reading a fun, integral part of your life. Give them a try, mix them up, and most importantly, enjoy every page and panel of your manga adventure!