Money burning a hole in your pocket?

Then we suggest that you check out some of these Wordcandy-approved manga titles. Unlike a lot of the manga we recommend, all of these stories are still in their infancy, English-language publication-wise, so you won't need to shell out a ton of cash to get caught up on the storylines.



Full disclosure: the scanlation group that I work for, Korean-Manhwa, used to scanlate Bird Kiss, so I have a pre-established soft spot for it. Now that Tokyopop has picked it up, even those of you who aren't IRC-savvy can read this goofily charming ugly-duckling story.



This book is pretty silly, but it's tough not to like. The heroine, Kyoko, sacrificed everything to make her boyfriend's dream of becoming an idol star a reality, but as soon as he became famous he dumped her. Kyoko is left broken-hearted--but (unlike most manga heroines) she's not interested in winning him back. She's out for revenge, and she's decided that the best way to get it is by becoming a megastar herself. Now, if only she had any talent....




If Skip-Beat is silly, then Vampire Knight is dumber than a box of hair. Not that it matters--this series has absolutely no need to worry its pretty head about things like realistic plots or decent characterization. Sure, there are a bunch of hot vampires and some love-triangle action and lots of cool guns and stuff, but 98% of this title's appeal comes from its gorgeous artwork.

*Available through Shojo Beat magazine.