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Chloe has nine lives. But will nine be enough?
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At a Glance
(contains mild romantic themes with occasional suggestive innuendo, minimal violence, and little to no swearing)
AUTHOR INOUE
THE DUKE OF DEATH AND HIS MAID
When the duke was a young boy, a witch cast a powerful curse upon him, making it so that any living thing he touched would die. Now a young man, he lives in a sprawling mansion with only servants for his companions: an elderly butler, and his childhood friend, a busty blonde maid named Alice. Despite the curse, Alice is constantly flirting with him and seems to delight in making him blush! But how close can they truly grow as long as the curse is in place?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Duke of Death and His Maid Vol. 1 is a delightful choice for readers who love supernatural stories with a blend of romance and humor. The unique premise of a cursed duke who can’t touch anything without causing harm creates an intriguing and emotionally rich backdrop, while the playful relationship with his maid Alice adds warmth and charm. Fans of supernatural tales will appreciate how the story balances darker themes with lighthearted moments, making it both engaging and emotionally satisfying without relying on graphic violence or explicit content. That said, while the series has mild romantic innuendo, it remains tasteful and focuses more on emotional connection than anything explicit, making it a comfortable read for those who enjoy nuanced relationships within fantasy settings. The curse’s impact on the Duke’s life adds depth without becoming overwhelming, but readers who prefer purely action-driven supernatural stories might find the slower, character-focused pace less thrilling. Overall, it’s a lovely pick for those who enjoy supernatural worlds with heart and humor, offering a gentle yet captivating experience.
(contains intense graphic violence, disturbing imagery, some mild language, and no sexual content)
AUTHOR HAJIME ISAYAMA
ATTACK ON TITAN
In this post-apocalytpic sci-fi story, humanity has been devastated by the bizarre, giant humanoids known as the Titans. Little is known about where they came from or why they are bent on consuming mankind. Seemingly unintelligent, they have roamed the world for years, killing everyone they see. For the past century, what's left of man has hidden in a giant, three-walled city. People believe their 100-meter-high walls will protect them from the Titans, but the sudden appearance of an immense Titan is about to change everything. Winner of the 2011 Kodansha Manga Award (Shonen) and nominated for the prestigious Osamu Tezuka Cultural Prize for 2012.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Attack on Titan Vol. 1 can be a powerful and thought-provoking read for those who enjoy dark fantasy, dystopian themes, and high-stakes storytelling. It explores humanity’s struggle for survival against terrifying creatures called Titans, with a story full of suspense, emotional depth, and questions about freedom, sacrifice, and morality. For mature readers who can handle heavy themes and intense action, it offers a gripping narrative and complex characters that make for compelling discussion, especially around issues like leadership, trauma, and the cost of war. However, this series may not be a good fit for families or readers who are sensitive to graphic violence or disturbing content. The violence is frequent and often intense, with humans being devoured by Titans and characters dying in brutal ways, which can be unsettling. While there’s no explicit sexual content and very little romantic focus, the grim tone and haunting imagery make it better suited for readers who are emotionally prepared for darker material. Parents might want to preview it first to decide whether the mature themes align with their family’s comfort level.
(contains stylized violence, mature themes, and mild language, with suggestive content and complex romantic dynamics, but no explicit sexual scenes)
AUTHOR PARU ITAGAKI
BEASTARS
At this high school, instead of jocks and nerds, the students are divided into predators and prey.
At a high school where the students are literally divided into predators and prey, friendships maintain the fragile peace. Who among them will become a Beastar—a hero destined to lead in a society naturally rife with mistrust?
One night at Cherryton Academy, an herbivore student is brutally murdered. Among the members of the Drama Club, the herbivores’ suspicions naturally turn to their carnivore classmates… The prime suspect? Gray wolf Legoshi. But he wouldn’t hurt a fly. Or would he? Will dwarf rabbit Haru bring out the beast in him? Or are his feelings for her…something else?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
BEASTARS, Vol. 1 by Paru Itagaki could be a great choice for readers looking for a thought-provoking story that dives deep into identity, prejudice, and self-control—all wrapped in an anthropomorphic setting. With its richly layered characters and a narrative that explores what it means to live in a society divided by instinct and morality, the series challenges readers to think beyond surface-level action or romance. While there are romantic elements and emotional tension between characters, these serve to deepen the themes rather than provide simple love-story beats. The story’s depth and mature storytelling can be rewarding for readers who appreciate complex social commentary in a unique and imaginative world. However, this series might not be the right fit for all families, especially those concerned with mature themes or suggestive content. While there is no explicit sexual content, there are moments of intimacy and tension—particularly involving characters navigating confusing feelings related to attraction, power dynamics, and instinctual behavior. Additionally, BEASTARS includes some stylized violence, emotional conflict, and occasional swearing, which may be more suitable for older or more mature readers. Families who prefer stories that steer away from morally gray areas or sensitive emotional topics might find the themes a bit too intense for casual or younger audiences.
(dark humor, stylized violence, occasional suggestive humor, and mild language)
AUTHOR YUSEI MATSUI
ASSASSINATION CLASSROOM
Meet the would-be assassins of class 3-E: Sugino, who let his grades slip and got kicked off the baseball team. Karma, who’s doing well in his classes but keeps getting suspended for fighting. And Okuda, who lacks both academic and social skills, yet excels at one subject: chemistry. Who has the best chance of winning that reward? Will the deed be accomplished through pity, brute force or poison...? And what chance does their teacher have of repairing his students’ tattered self-esteem?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Assassination Classroom, Vol. 1 might be a good choice for families or readers who enjoy quirky, unconventional stories that blend action with humor and heart. The premise—students tasked with assassinating their alien teacher before he destroys Earth—sounds dark, but it’s surprisingly thoughtful, with themes of personal growth, redemption, and the importance of good teaching. The series focuses on character development, teamwork, and how students who are typically overlooked can find confidence and purpose. It’s fast-paced, funny, and often unexpectedly touching, making it engaging for readers who like stories that are both strange and smart. However, this series might not be right for every household due to its violent premise and occasional suggestive humor. While the violence is often exaggerated and cartoonish rather than graphic, it still centers on students plotting to kill their teacher, which may be unsettling for some parents. There’s no explicit sexual content, but there are a few moments of innuendo and fanservice-style jokes that might not be appropriate for younger or more sensitive readers. Families who prefer more traditional school settings or lighter subject matter may want to preview the book or discuss the context and tone before diving in.
(violence, mild language, heavy themes, occasional alcohol use, some characters wear revealing clothing)
AUTHOR NAOYA MATSUMOTO
KAIJU NO. 8
Kafka wants to clean up kaiju, but not literally! Will a sudden metamorphosis stand in the way of his dream?
With the highest kaiju-emergence rates in the world, Japan is no stranger to attack by deadly monsters. Enter the Japan Defense Force, a military organization tasked with the neutralization of kaiju. Kafka Hibino, a kaiju-corpse cleanup man, has always dreamed of joining the force. But when he gets another shot at achieving his childhood dream, he undergoes an unexpected transformation. How can he fight kaiju now that he’s become one himself?!
Kafka hopes to one day keep his pact with his childhood friend Mina to join the Japan Defense Force and fight by her side. But while she’s out neutralizing kaiju as Third Division captain, Kafka is stuck cleaning up the aftermath of her battles. When a sudden rule change makes Kafka eligible for the Defense Force, he decides to try out for the squad once more. There’s just one problem—he’s made the Defense Force’s neutralization list under the code name Kaiju No. 8.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Naoya Matsumoto’s Kaiju No. 8 is a gripping and fast-paced manga series that offers a fresh take on monster-fighting action while delivering strong themes of perseverance, purpose, and second chances. The story follows Kafka Hibino, a man who’s long given up on his dream of joining Japan’s elite kaiju defense force—until a strange twist turns him into the very creature he’s supposed to fight. This compelling premise makes the series relatable to older teens and adults alike, especially those who enjoy stories about underdogs fighting against the odds and discovering inner strength. When it comes to content, Kaiju No. 8 is best suited for mid-teen readers. The series includes moderate action violence, with scenes of monster battles and destruction, but the imagery is stylized rather than graphic. Sensual content is minimal—there are a few suggestive jokes and light innuendo, but nothing explicit or inappropriate for older teens. Swearing appears occasionally but is not excessive. Overall, Kaiju No. 8 blends thrilling battles with humor and heart, making it a solid choice for families looking for an engaging series with positive messages about resilience, teamwork, and personal growth.
(kissing but no sexual content, little to no swearing, some adult alcohol consumption)
AUTHOR SUU MORISHITA
A SIGN OF AFFECTION
Yuki is a college student who’s into friends and fashion. She’s also deaf. A chance meeting on a train leads to a serious crush… but can it grow into something more? A sweet and touching manga romance from the creator of Shortcake Cake!
Yuki, who’s always been deaf, is used to communicating with sign language and her phone. But she’s not used to English, so when a tourist from overseas asks for directions, she nearly panics…until a handsome stranger steps in to help. His name is Itsuomi, and it turns out he’s a friend of a friend. A charismatic globetrotter, Itsuomi speaks three languages, but he’s never had a deaf friend. The two feel drawn to each other and plan a date on a romantic winter’s night…but Yuki’s friend is afraid that she might be setting herself up to get hurt. Could this be something real? Or will these feelings melt away with the snow?
From the acclaimed author of Shortcake Cake, the hit shojo series with more than a million copies in print, this new work is full of real-life details about Japanese sign language and living without hearing, and it's sure to please fans of romantic stories like A Silent Voice, Kimi ni Todoke, and Love in Focus!
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Suu Morishita’s A Sign of Affection is a beautifully tender romance manga that offers a refreshing and heartfelt take on love, communication, and inclusivity. The story follows Yuki, a kind and soft-spoken college student who is deaf, as she begins to form a connection with Itsuomi, a worldly and confident classmate. Their relationship grows through moments of learning, understanding, and gentle emotional vulnerability, making this series a standout for its sweet tone and respectful representation of the Deaf community. It's an excellent read for teens and families who appreciate quiet, character-driven stories with meaningful messages. In terms of content, A Sign of Affection is appropriate for younger teen readers and older. There is no explicit sexual content; the romance is slow-burn and filled with emotionally intimate moments rather than physical ones. Any sensuality is very mild—limited to occasional blush-worthy situations or romantic tension, all portrayed with subtlety and grace. There’s no violence or inappropriate language, and the overall tone remains warm and wholesome. For families looking for a gentle, emotionally rich story that promotes empathy, patience, and love beyond words, this series is a beautiful and worthwhile choice.
(violence and gore downplayed with humor and satire, mild profanity, some revealing outfits, occasional alcohol)
AUTHOR YUSUKE MURATA
ONE PUNCH MAN
Life gets pretty boring when you can beat the snot out of any villain with just one punch.
Nothing about Saitama passes the eyeball test when it comes to superheroes, from his lifeless expression to his bald head to his unimpressive physique. However, this average-looking guy has a not-so-average problem—he just can’t seem to find an opponent strong enough to take on!
Every time a promising villain appears, Saitama beats the snot out of ’em with one punch! Can he finally find an opponent who can go toe-to-toe with him and give his life some meaning? Or is he doomed to a life of superpowered boredom?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Yusuke Murata’s One Punch Man is a wildly entertaining manga series that combines superhero action with sharp comedy and clever satire, making it a great pick for teens and families who enjoy dynamic storytelling with a humorous twist. The story centers on Saitama, a hero so powerful he defeats any enemy with a single punch, leading to an existential crisis over the lack of real challenge in his life. The series is both a parody of and a love letter to superhero tropes, with over-the-top battles, hilarious character moments, and a surprisingly thoughtful look at purpose and identity. In terms of content, One Punch Man includes frequent fantasy violence and intense fight scenes, but the tone is more exaggerated and comedic than graphic or disturbing. Sensual content is minimal, with the occasional mild innuendo or a humorous situation played for laughs, but there’s no explicit or inappropriate material. Swearing exists but is mild and infrequent. With its unique blend of action, absurdity, and heart, One Punch Man is a fun and age-appropriate series that can be enjoyed by older kids, teens, and adults alike.
(violence, mild language, and some revealing outfits-but important parts are covered)
AUTHOR EIICHIRO ODA
ONE PIECE
Join Monkey D. Luffy and his swashbuckling crew in their search for the ultimate treasure, One Piece!
As a child, Monkey D. Luffy dreamed of becoming King of the Pirates. But his life changed when he accidentally gained the power to stretch like rubber…at the cost of never being able to swim again! Years, later, Luffy sets off in search of the “One Piece,” said to be the greatest treasure in the world...
As a child, Monkey D. Luffy was inspired to become a pirate by listening to the tales of the buccaneer "Red-Haired" Shanks. But his life changed when Luffy accidentally ate the Gum-Gum Devil Fruit and gained the power to stretch like rubber...at the cost of never being able to swim again! Years later, still vowing to become the king of the pirates, Luffy sets out on his adventure...one guy alone in a rowboat, in search of the legendary "One Piece," said to be the greatest treasure in the world...
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Eiichiro Oda’s One Piece is a beloved and long-running manga series that offers an epic blend of adventure, humor, and heartfelt storytelling, making it a standout choice for families and readers of all ages. Following the journey of Monkey D. Luffy and his diverse crew of pirates, the series explores themes of friendship, loyalty, freedom, and perseverance. With imaginative world-building, strong moral messages, and characters who grow emotionally as well as physically, One Piece delivers a consistently uplifting and inspiring narrative that encourages readers to chase their dreams and stand up for what they believe in. In terms of content, One Piece is generally appropriate for readers aged pre-teen, though some arcs may be better suited for slightly older tweens or teens. There is no explicit sensual content—sensuality is limited to occasional mild innuendo, exaggerated character designs (especially for comedic effect), and rare, brief jokes that may go over younger readers’ heads. The violence is action-based and stylized, featuring battles between pirates and villains, but it’s rarely graphic or dark. Swearing is minimal and typically softened in English translations. Overall, One Piece is a family-friendly adventure full of humor, heart, and life lessons that appeal to kids, teens, and even adults alike.
(features stylized fantasy violence, occasional suggestive humor, and mild language)
AUTHOR TOM KING
VISION
Collects Vision (2015) #1-6.
The Vision wants to be human, and what's more human than family? So he heads back to the beginning, to the laboratory where Ultron created him and molded him into a weapon. The place where he first rebelled against his given destiny, and imagined he could be more — that he could be a man. There, he builds them. A wife, Virginia. Two teenage twins, Viv and Vin. They look like him. They have his powers. They share his grandest ambition (or is that obsession?): the unrelenting need to be ordinary. Behold the Visions! They're the family next door, and they have the power to kill us all. What could possibly go wrong? Artificial hearts will be broken, bodies will not stay buried, the truth will not remain hidden, and the Vision will never be the same.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Vision Vol. 1: Little Worse Than A Man by Tom King offers a smart, haunting, and emotionally layered take on the superhero genre, making it a compelling read for mature teens and adults who enjoy psychological drama. The story follows the synthezoid Avenger, Vision, as he tries to build a “normal” suburban family life, which slowly unravels in unsettling and unexpected ways. Its thoughtful exploration of identity, morality, and the cost of fitting in makes it more than a typical comic book—it’s a deeply literary and philosophical narrative wrapped in sci-fi. For readers who appreciate darker themes and nuanced storytelling, this book is a standout. However, this volume might not be the best fit for families seeking light-hearted superhero adventures. While there's no explicit sexual content or graphic swearing, the tone is heavy, the violence—though not excessive—is emotionally impactful, and the themes delve into death, isolation, and psychological breakdown. It's a story that asks big questions and sometimes offers disturbing answers, which may be too intense or thought-provoking for younger readers or those sensitive to emotional distress. Families might want to preview the book or discuss its more mature elements together to decide whether it aligns with their values and reading preferences.
(intense sci-fi combat, mild language, and minimal suggestive content, with no explicit sexual material)
AUTHOR CHRISTOPHER SCHLERF
HALO: ESCALATION
Following the events of Halo 4, the UNSC Infinity is deployed to security detail for a peace summit between the Elites and Brutes. When the negotiations are ambushed by a mercenary fleet, Infinity is drawn into a plot which leads them to the discovery of a long-lost UNSC asset trapped behind enemy lines. This graphic novel collects the comics Halo: Escalation 1 through 6.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Halo: Escalation Volume 1 could be a good fit for readers who are fans of the Halo video game universe or enjoy action-packed science fiction with military themes. The graphic novel continues the storyline from the games, diving deeper into political intrigue, high-stakes missions, and intergalactic conflict. Readers who appreciate detailed artwork, futuristic settings, and intense battle scenes may find this series both exciting and immersive. It also includes themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and survival, which can spark interesting conversations about ethics and leadership in times of war. On the other hand, this series might not be ideal for families who are cautious about strong combat imagery or language. While there is no explicit sexual content, there may be a few mild suggestive references and occasional swearing, along with frequent scenes of violence consistent with the military sci-fi genre. The action, though stylized, can be intense, with weapons, alien creatures, and life-or-death stakes. Families who prefer stories with lighter themes or minimal combat might want to preview it first to ensure it aligns with their comfort level.
(features stylized fantasy violence, occasional suggestive humor, and mild language)
AUTHOR NAKABA SUZUKI
THE SEVEN DEADLY SINS
When they were accused of trying to overthrow the monarchy, the feared warriors the Seven Deadly Sins were sent into exile. Princess Elizabeth discovers the truth - the Sins were framed by the king's guard, the Holy Knights - too late to prevent them from assassinating her father and seizing the throne! Now the princess is on the run, seeking the Sins to help her reclaim the kingdom. But the first Sin she meets, Meliodas, is a little innkeeper with a talking pig. He doesn't even have a real sword! Have the legends of the Sins' strength been exaggerated...?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Seven Deadly Sins Vol. 1 is a great choice for readers who enjoy classic fantasy adventures filled with magic, knights, and epic battles. The story is fun and fast-paced, featuring a diverse cast of characters with unique powers and personalities, which keeps things engaging and entertaining. Themes of friendship, loyalty, and redemption run throughout the series, making it appealing for those who like stories with heart beneath the action. The blend of humor and fantasy makes it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of readers who appreciate imaginative worlds and heroic quests. That said, this series might not be the best fit for families who are sensitive to fantasy violence or suggestive humor. While there’s no explicit sexual content, some scenes include mild innuendo and fanservice that might feel uncomfortable for more conservative readers or younger audiences. The violence, although mostly stylized and fantastical, is frequent and can be intense during battle scenes. If your family prefers stories with minimal action or a more straightforward tone, it might be worth previewing the series first to see if its mix of humor, fantasy, and occasional cheekiness aligns with your comfort level.
(contains frequent fantasy violence, mild crude humor, occasional suggestive references, and minimal swearing)
AUTHOR AKIRA TORIYAMA
DRAGON BALL Z
Sci-Fi martial arts action!
After years of training and adventure, Goku has become Earth's ultimate warrior. And his son, Gohan, shows even greater promise. But the stakes are increasing as even deadlier enemies threaten the planet. DRAGON BALL Z is the ultimate science fiction-martial arts manga.
Son Goku is the greatest hero on Earth. Five years after defeating the demon king Piccolo, he's grown up and had a family--he's married, and he has a child, Son Gohan. But what is the real reason for Goku's incredible strength? A visitor from outer space arrives bearing terrible news--Goku is an alien, and the visitor, Raditz, is Goku's brother! When Raditz turns out to be a ruthless killer, Goku must fight his incredibly strong brother to save his family and the entire human race. A surprising alliance may be Earth's last hope: Goku will team up with his old enemy Piccolo...archenemies united to save the world!
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Dragon Ball Z might be a great pick for families or readers who enjoy high-energy action, imaginative storytelling, and themes of friendship, perseverance, and protecting loved ones. The series introduces characters who face powerful enemies and overcome impossible odds, often with humor and heart. Many young readers find the fast-paced battles and quirky personalities exciting and entertaining, and the story promotes values like courage and teamwork. It’s also a classic in the world of manga and anime, making it a fun cultural touchstone to share or explore together. However, this series may not be the best fit for every family, especially for those who are cautious about violence or occasional crude humor. While there isn’t any explicit sexual content, some scenes include mildly suggestive jokes or moments, mostly played for laughs and usually brief. The fantasy-style violence is frequent—characters fight using energy blasts and martial arts—but there’s little blood or gore. Depending on a family’s comfort level with this kind of action and humor, it might be something to preview or discuss together to ensure it aligns with personal values or household expectations.
(violence, mild language, and intense scenes)
AUTHOR YOSHIHIRO TOGASHI
HUNTER X HUNTER
Plucky Gon’s quest to find his dad leads him into a whole world of crazy adventure.
Hunters are a special breed, dedicated to tracking down treasures, magical beasts, and even other people. But such pursuits require a license, and less than one in a hundred thousand can pass the grueling qualification exam. Those who do pass gain access to restricted areas, amazing stores of information, and the right to call themselves Hunters.
Gon might be a country boy, but he has high aspirations. Despite his Aunt Mito's protests, Gon decides to follow in his father's footsteps and become a legendary Hunter. The Hunter hopefuls begin their journey by storm-tossed ship, where Gon meets Leorio and Kurapika, the only other applicants who aren't devastated by bouts of seasickness.
Having survived the terrors of the high seas, Gon and his companions now have to prove their worth in a variety of tests in order to find the elusive Exam Hall. And once they get there, will they ever leave alive...?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Yoshihiro Togashi’s Hunter x Hunter is a richly layered, action-packed manga that blends adventure, strategy, and deep emotional storytelling, making it a compelling choice for older teens and families who enjoy thoughtful narratives. The story follows Gon Freecss, a boy determined to become a Hunter and find his missing father. Along the way, he forms powerful friendships, faces moral dilemmas, and confronts both physical and psychological challenges. The series is known for its creative world-building, complex characters, and the way it evolves from a lighthearted beginning into a much deeper and more intricate story. While Hunter x Hunter is full of inspiring themes like friendship, determination, and sacrifice, it is best suited for mid-teen readers and up due to its content. The series contains fantasy violence, some intense or emotionally heavy scenes, and dark story arcs that deal with mature themes like death and moral ambiguity. Sensual content is virtually nonexistent—romantic elements are minimal and understated, with no explicit or suggestive material. Occasional swearing appears, but it’s generally not excessive. For families with older teens who are ready for a smart, emotionally resonant adventure that doesn’t shy away from complex issues, Hunter x Hunter is an excellent and rewarding choice.
(violence, mild language, some alcohol use, some light romance, some immodest clothing--but nothing graphic, and intense scenes)
AUTHOR YUKI TABATA
BLACK CLOVER
In a world of magic, Asta, a boy with anti-magic powers, will do whatever it takes to become the Wizard King!
Asta is a young boy who dreams of becoming the greatest mage in the kingdom. Only one problem—he can't use any magic! Luckily for Asta, he receives the incredibly rare five-leaf clover grimoire that gives him the power of anti-magic. Can someone who can't use magic really become the Wizard King? One thing's for sure—Asta will never give up!
Young Asta was born with no magic ability in a world where magic is everything. In order to prove his strength and keep a promise with his friend, Asta dreams of becoming the greatest mage in the land, the Wizard King!
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Yūki Tabata’s Black Clover is an exciting, magic-filled adventure series that celebrates determination, friendship, and never giving up, making it a strong choice for teens and families who enjoy high-energy storytelling with heart. The story follows Asta, a boy born without magic in a world where it’s everything, as he works tirelessly to become the Wizard King. His perseverance, loyalty to his friends, and refusal to let limitations define him send a powerful, positive message, especially for young readers looking for heroes who succeed through effort and courage. In terms of content, Black Clover is best suited for young teens and older. The series includes frequent fantasy violence, such as magical battles and monster confrontations, but it’s action-based and not overly graphic. Sensual content is mild—there are a few suggestive jokes and revealing outfits, mostly played for humor, but nothing explicit or overly mature. Swearing appears occasionally but is not excessive. Overall, Black Clover balances thrilling adventure with wholesome values and is a great pick for families looking for a fun, inspiring read with strong character development and a classic underdog hero.
(family abuse, trauma, and grief; occasional mild violence and romance; overall positive messages of resilience and healing)
AUTHOR NATSUKI TAKAYA
FRUIT BASKET
After a family tragedy turns her life upside down, plucky high schooler Tohru Honda takes matters into her own hands and moves out...into a tent! Unfortunately for her, she pitches her new home on private land belonging to the mysterious Sohma clan, and it isn't long before the owners discover her secret. But, as Tohru quickly finds out when the family offers to take her in, the Sohmas have a secret of their own--when touched by the opposite sex, they turn into the animals of the Chinese Zodiac!A perennial favorite of fans and librarians alike, Natsuki Takaya's beloved bestselling Fruits Basket series returns to print in gorgeous deluxe English-language omnibus editions with beautiful full-color illustrations that are not to be missed!
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Natsuki Takaya’s Fruits Basket is a touching and emotionally rich manga series that explores themes of compassion, healing, and the importance of found family, making it a wonderful choice for teens and families who appreciate heartfelt stories. The story follows Tohru Honda, a kind and optimistic girl who becomes entwined with the mysterious Sohma family—members of which are cursed to transform into animals of the Chinese zodiac when hugged by the opposite sex. The series skillfully blends humor, romance, and drama while highlighting resilience, kindness, and the power of unconditional support during difficult times. Fruits Basket is best suited for younger teen and older due to some mature emotional themes, including grief, abuse, and trauma, all handled with sensitivity. There is mild sensual content, such as romantic tension, blushing moments, and a few slightly suggestive situations, but nothing graphic or explicit. Violence is limited to occasional emotional or physical confrontations, and swearing is infrequent. Ultimately, Fruits Basket stands out as a beautifully written, uplifting series that encourages empathy and emotional growth, making it a thoughtful and meaningful choice for readers and families alike.
(mild romance, light fanservice, occasional slapstick violence, and minimal swearing)
AUTHOR IZUMI TSUBAKI
MONTHYLY GIRLS
The boy of her dreams...is a girl's manga artist?! To the eyes of high school student Chiyo Sakura, classmate Umetarou Nozaki--brawny of build and brusque of tongue--is a dreamboat! When Chiyo finally works up the courage to tell Nozaki how she feels about him, she knows rejection is on the table...but getting recruited as a manga-ka's assistant?! Never in a million years! But for someone who makes a living drawing sweet girly romances, Nozaki-kun is a little slow on the uptake when it comes to matters of the heart in reality. And so Chiyo's daily life of manga making and heartache begins!
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Izumi Tsubaki’s Monthly Girls' Nozaki-kun is a lighthearted and hilarious manga series that’s perfect for families looking for clean, feel-good entertainment with clever humor and lovable characters. The story centers around Chiyo Sakura, a high school student who has a crush on her classmate Nozaki—only to discover he’s a shōjo manga artist with no clue about romance in real life. As Chiyo gets pulled into the quirky world of manga production, readers are treated to a delightful mix of school life, friendship, and satire that pokes fun at common romance tropes in a totally family-friendly way. In terms of content, Monthly Girls' Nozaki-kun is completely appropriate for younger readers. There is no sexual content—romantic moments are sweet, subtle, and often intentionally awkward or comically exaggerated for laughs. Sensuality is virtually nonexistent, and the humor remains clean throughout. There’s no violence or serious drama, and any romantic tension is lighthearted and innocent. This makes the series an excellent choice for both younger readers and families who enjoy clever comedy and wholesome storytelling with just a touch of romance.
(scary images, fantasy violence, some alcohol drinking, subtle sexual innuendos)
AUTHOR KANEHITO YAMADA
FRIEREN: BEYOND JOURNEY'S END
The adventure is over but life goes on for an elf mage just beginning to learn what living is all about.
Elf mage Frieren and her courageous fellow adventurers have defeated the Demon King and brought peace to the land. But Frieren will long outlive the rest of her former party. How will she come to understand what life means to the people around her?
Decades after their victory, the funeral of one her friends confronts Frieren with her own near immortality. Frieren sets out to fulfill the last wishes of her comrades and finds herself beginning a new adventure…
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Kanehito Yamada’s Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is a reflective and beautifully illustrated fantasy series that offers a fresh take on the traditional quest narrative, making it a thoughtful and enriching choice for families and readers of all ages. Rather than focusing on the adventure itself, the story begins after the defeat of a great evil and follows the elf mage Frieren as she journeys through a world changed by time and memory. With themes of loss, legacy, and what it means to truly connect with others, the series delivers gentle life lessons, emotional depth, and quiet moments of wonder, making it perfect for readers who appreciate meaningful storytelling over nonstop action. In terms of content, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is a safe and appropriate read for tweens and teens. There is no sexual or sensual content, and romance takes a distant backseat to themes of friendship and emotional healing. Violence exists in the form of fantasy battles, but it is mild and not graphic, and the story’s overall tone is calm and introspective. With its serene pacing, emotional maturity, and focus on character growth, this series is a great pick for families looking for fantasy that sparks reflection and conversation.