Summer Reading List: 12 Great Manga for Grown-Ups

It's not news to most comics fans that Naruto is hugely popular and femmes are flocking to read shojo romances. That's fine for teens and tweens -- but what about grown ups who like graphic novels? If you've been looking for comics that's just a little bit edgier, more artistically innovative, thought-provoking or just more “grown-up" than your usual shojo and shonen fare, take heart. U.S. manga publishers have heard you and this summer, they’ve got a great array of graphic novels for you to choose from.

In the mood for some hard-boiled action and suspense? Perhaps historical drama? Or maybe rowdy, raunchy humor or mind-bending science fiction is more up your alley. Or what about some mouthwatering slice-of-life stories just for foodies? You'll find that and more in this list of 12 Great Manga for Grown-ups.

Find out which twelve recent or upcoming releases made my list of manga must-reads for mature readers this summer, or, if I've missed your favorite, add your recommendations in the comments below. Also, check out my other summer reading list, 12 Super-Fun Manga for Kids. Coming soon: Shojo and Shonen Manga Summer Reading Lists.

Image credit: © Jiro Taniguchi