5 Shoujo Manga That Deserve More Attention

Shoujo manga is actually created for young girls, yet its engaging stories of romance, self-discovery, school experiences, fantasy, and more can captivate readers of all kinds. If you enjoy this kind of manga, you’re aware that there are many options available. But what about the lesser-known gems? The ones that don’t always get the credit they should? Worry not, because we already listed the top 5 shoujo manga that deserve more attention and can be your companion this month!

Hidden Gem Shoujo Manga You Need to Add to Your Read-List

Even though there are many shoujo manga options available out there, it’s common knowledge that they sometimes can be overshadowed by the popularity of other beloved shoujo classics like Sailor Moon and Fruits Basket. There are so many other wonderful shoujo series that tend to go unnoticed. These hidden gems in the world of shoujo manga truly deserve some recognition.

#1 Yubisaki to Renren (A Sign of Affection)

Yubisaki to Renren (Image: mangadex)

Author: Morishita Suu
Chapters: 38
Status: Ongoing

Get ready for a heartwarming and light-hearted romantic story! Yubisaki to Renren revolves around Yuki Itose, who lives in silence due to being deaf since birth, and Itsuomi Nagi, a silver-haired man who is multilingual. Unlike most people, Itsuomi isn’t deterred by Yuki’s impairment. This, combined with his experiences abroad, intrigues Yuki. The storyline is engaging, moving at a satisfying pace, and refreshingly free from the usual high school setting clichés. The art style is very pretty and the characters in this manga wear fashionable outfits. It is truly a breath of fresh air!

#2 Uruwashi no Yoi no Tsuki (In the Clear Moonlit Dusk)

Uruwashi no Yoi no Tsuki (Image: mangadex)

Author: Yamamori Mika
Chapters: 27
Status: Ongoing

Number 2 on the list of the top 5 shoujo manga that deserve more attention is Uruwashi no Yoi no Tsuki. The main character is Yoi Takiguchi, a girl often called ‘Prince’ because of her handsome looks and behavior. She is genuinely likable because she looks like a boy but is actually cute and feminine without being overdone. And then there is Kohaku Ichimura. The typical shoujo protagonist we often encounter in other manga – a wealthy, handsome guy who attracts attention due to his money. However, don’t let the standard shoujo stereotype overshadow his character, because the author creatively uses these stereotypes in a refreshing, realistic way. Ichimura is the first boy who sees Takiguchi as a girl, and despite her efforts to keep her distance, he appears determined to connect with her. 

#3 Ore Monogatari!! (My Love Story!!)

Ore Monogatari!! (Image: MAL)

Author: Kazune Kawahara
Chapters: 52
Status: Completed

In a world filled with stories of conventional romance, Ore Monogatari!! takes a refreshing twist. This manga celebrates the journey of a boy who doesn’t fit the traditional image of a romantic lead in most shoujo manga. It highlights the story of Takeo Gouda, a high school student who might look tough and scary, but he’s actually kind and respected by those who truly know him. However, he’s never been lucky in love. The girls he likes always end up falling for his handsome best friend, Makoto Sunakawa. One day, Takeo saves the cute Rinko Yamato from a problem and falls in love with her. What he doesn’t realize is that Rinko loves him too! However, Takeo thinks Rinko likes Sunakawa, so he decides to help them get together, even if it means giving up his own chance at love.

Ore Monogatari!! has comedy, some drama here and there, and tons of moments to tug your heart on a squeeze from the absolute cuteness of the situation. The story’s authenticity and focus on inner beauty create an uplifting narrative that resonates with lots of readers.

#4 Yamada-kun to Lv999 no Koi wo Suru (Loving Yamada at Lv999)

Yamada-kun to Lv999 no Koi wo Suru (Image: mangafox)

Author: Mashiro
Chapters: 85
Status: Ongoing

Prepare to embark on a love story in a virtual world in Yamada-kun to Lv999 no Koi wo Suru. It follows Akane Kinoshita who gets into the game world because of her boyfriend. But unfortunately, her boyfriend cheats on her with a girl he met in a game. Akane Kinoshita learns that gamer boyfriends can be just as bad as offline ones. As she vents her anger by fighting monsters in the game, she meets Akito Yamada, a guildmate with an afro and Noh mask. Yamada is unsociable and quiet, hardly the type of person to make Akane swoon. Yet, despite his impressive gaming skills, he’s inexperienced in love, and surprisingly, Akane starts to feel something for him. Making new friends along the way, can Akane win over Yamada’s heart, a high school boy who’s like a final boss in a game?

This is a slow-paced romance that is definitely worth the read! The slow development adds so much to the story because it all feels natural in the end and nothing is out of place. This manga was also adapted into an anime series too this year.

#5 Koori Zokusei Danshi to Cool na Douryou Joshi (The Ice Guy and the Cool Girl)

Koori Zokusei Danshi to Cool na Douryou Joshi (Image: @comic_natalie, Twitter)

Author: Tonogaya Miyuki
Chapters: 50
Status: Ongoing

The last one on our list of the top 5 shoujo manga that deserve more attention is Koori Zokusei Danshi to Cool na Douryou Joshi – also known as The Ice Guy and the Cool Girl. The manga follows the story of Himuro, an office worker who belongs to a race of supernatural beings with strange powers. Whenever he’s really focused, his co-workers feel like they’re in the Arctic. Despite his icy powers, Himuro is actually a warm person and he’s got a soft spot for Fuyutsuki.

When Fuyutsuki helps him, he feels a lot of emotions, like a snowstorm inside. But he doesn’t realize he’s making a snowy mess in the office. Everyone except Fuyutsuki sees his feelings because of his snowy outbursts. Still, Himuro really likes her and is ready to do whatever it takes to win her heart.

As you progress in the manga, additional characters are introduced, providing deeper insights into their connections. The artwork is also appealing, with certain panels evoking strong emotions. That’s why it’s worth reading.

• Also read: Boruto Chapter 82 Release Date Confirmed & Where to Read