The world of BL (Boys’ Love) manga offers a diverse array of stories, from heartwarming romances to complex dramas. For newcomers, navigating this genre can be a little daunting. To help you embark on your BL journey, here’s a curated list of top manga, perfect for first-time readers. This list is designed to showcase a variety of themes, art styles, and narratives, ensuring there’s something for everyone eager to explore this captivating genre.
1. Sasaki and Miyano: A Gentle Introduction
Sasaki and Miyano is a delightful series that stands out for its pure and innocent portrayal of young love. The story revolves around Miyano, a shy boy who loves BL manga, and Sasaki, an older student who becomes intrigued by Miyano’s passion.
Why it’s great for beginners:
- Slow-burn romance: The relationship develops gradually, focusing on tender moments and genuine connection rather than explicit content.
- Relatable characters: Both Sasaki and Miyano are endearing and relatable, making it easy to invest in their story.
- Slice-of-life: The manga captures everyday high school life, creating a comfortable and familiar setting.
- Good art style: The art is clean and appealing.
- Anime Adaptation: If you enjoy the manga, there’s also a popular anime adaptation you can enjoy.
2. I Hear the Sunspot: A Story of Acceptance
I Hear the Sunspot delves into a heartwarming relationship between Kohei, a university student with hearing loss, and Taichi, a carefree classmate. Their bond is built upon understanding and mutual support.
Why it’s great for beginners:
- Sensitive portrayal of disability: The manga delicately handles the challenges faced by Kohei, promoting awareness and empathy.
- Character-driven narrative: The focus is on the emotional growth of both characters, making their relationship feel authentic.
- Sweet Romance: The story is a slow-burn, sweet romance that is easy to read and follow.
- Gentle and heartwarming: It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a touching story without excessive drama.
- Sequels Available: If you enjoy the first volume, there are two sequels that continue Kohei and Taichi’s story.
3. Therapy Game: A Playful Yet Deep Connection
Therapy Game is a popular manga known for its engaging characters and unique dynamic. The story follows Shizuka, a stoic and somewhat cold character, and Minato, who is more energetic and outgoing. Their relationship starts as a competition, but evolves into something more.
Why it’s great for beginners:
- Cat and Dog dynamic: The opposite personalities of the main characters create a fun and engaging dynamic.
- Emotional Depth: Despite the initial playfulness, the manga delves into the characters’ deeper emotions and vulnerabilities.
- Sex before feelings trope: If you enjoy this trope, this manga is a good example of it.
- Sequel: If you enjoy the manga, there is a sequel to further explore their relationship.
- Popular choice: It’s a very popular choice in the BL community.
4. Given: A Melodic Love Story
Given is a poignant story about love, loss, and the healing power of music. The series follows the budding relationship between Mafuyu, a quiet guitarist, and Ritsuka, a talented musician.
Why it’s great for beginners:
- Beautiful art and music themes: The manga’s visuals and integration of music create a unique and immersive experience.
- Emotional exploration: It handles themes of grief and healing with sensitivity and depth.
- Character growth: It focuses on character growth and the process of finding love again.
- Anime Adaptation: The popular anime adaptation is available for viewing if you like the manga.
5. Ten Count: Navigating Trauma and Trust
Ten Count explores the complex relationship between Shirotani, who suffers from mysophobia, and Kurose, his therapist. It’s a story about overcoming trauma and learning to trust.
Why it’s great for beginners:
- Mature themes: It tackles sensitive topics with care, offering a glimpse into the struggles of mental health.
- Character Development: The story focuses on the characters’ personal growth and their journey to overcome trauma.
- Compelling Narrative: The psychological elements and character interactions make the story gripping.
- Popular manga: This is a popular choice within the BL community.
6. Classmates: A Classic Coming-of-Age Romance
Classmates is a sweet and simple story that captures the essence of first love. The series follows Rihito, a seemingly aloof student, and Hikaru, an upbeat and friendly classmate.
Why it’s great for beginners:
- Classic high school setting: It’s a nostalgic and familiar environment for many readers.
- Charming character interactions: The relationship develops naturally, focusing on small, meaningful moments.
- Clean art style: The artwork is beautiful and easy to follow.
- Simple yet impactful: It’s a simple yet impactful story that is perfect for those who prefer a lighter read.
7. Minato’s Laundromat: An Age-Gap Romance
Minato’s Laundromat is a slice-of-life BL manga focused on Minato and Katsuki’s age-gap romance. The series takes its time to explore the characters’ individual conflicts and introspection.
Why it’s great for beginners:
- Slice of Life: It is a slow burn, slice-of-life story that is focused on character development.
- Age Gap Romance: It is a good choice for those who enjoy age-gap relationships.
- No Eroticism: If you want a BL manga that isn’t focused on erotica, then this is a great choice.
- Live-action Adaptation: The well-received live-action adaptation is available for viewing for those who enjoy the manga.
8. Like the Beast: Action-Packed Romance
Like the Beast is a BL manga with an engaging premise. It follows Tomoharu, a police officer who ends up helping a yakuza member named Aki.
Why it’s great for beginners:
- Fast-Paced Plot: It has an action-packed story that will keep the reader entertained.
- Unique Characters: It has an interesting pairing with a police officer and yakuza member.
- Action and Romance: The blend of action and romance is a good choice for those who enjoy both genres.
9. Boy Meets Maria: A Story of Identity and Acceptance
Boy Meets Maria is a manga with gorgeous art that handles gender identity well. The story is about a boy who falls for another while they are crossdressing in a play.
Why it’s great for beginners:
- Unique Storyline: The story is a unique take on a high school romance.
- Gorgeous art: The art is beautiful and visually appealing.
- Gender Identity: It handles themes of gender identity well.
10. Easy to Read: Office Romance
Easy to Read is an office romance story, with the main character, Kyowoo, becoming interested in a new recruit, Leehak.
Why it’s great for beginners:
- Office Setting: It is a good choice for those who enjoy office romances.
- Easy to Follow: The plot is simple and easy to follow.
- Sweet Romance: This is a sweet and engaging romance that is easy to read.
Tips for New BL Readers
- Start with recommendations: These titles provide a good starting point to explore a range of styles and themes within the genre.
- Read at your own pace: Take your time to enjoy each story and reflect on its themes and characters.
- Explore different subgenres: Once you’re comfortable, branch out to different subgenres within BL to find what resonates with you the most.
- Use online resources: Websites like MyAnimeList, Reddit, and Goodreads offer reviews and recommendations.
- Be mindful of content: Some BL manga may contain mature themes, so be sure to check content warnings if you are sensitive to certain topics.
By starting with these recommended titles, you can begin your journey into the world of BL manga and discover the many captivating and heartfelt stories it has to offer. Happy reading!
