thrifted book finds!
Ultra Cute, Vols 1-4
Publication Date: 2006 - 2008
Summary (From Tokyopop): For all 15 years of their lives, Ami and Noa have competed against each other for love with the same results: both fall for the same guy, inevitably scaring him away and leaving them boyfriend-less. But the vicious cycle is broken when the girls go to a party and each fall for two different guys! With potential love on the horizon, the sky couldn't be bluer...until Ami discovers that these two dudes are actually duds with ulterior motives. Determined to get revenge on these players, Ami vows to make her guy fall for her while she trys to protect an unsuspecting Noa!
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I've been trying to diversify my manga collection a little bit (just because I noticed that I have so much Shonen Jump manga in my collection), and I remember reading the first volume of this manga back when it came out. So color me surprised when I saw these volumes for 5 bucks each! Had to snag them as soon as I saw them.
Finding these 'Ultra Cute' volumes by Nami Akimoto at such a great price was honestly a dream come true! It really highlights why I love thrifting for manga so much. It's not just about saving money, although that's a huge bonus, especially when you're trying to build a diverse collection without breaking the bank. For me, it's the thrill of the hunt – you never know what hidden gems you'll uncover! My best advice for anyone looking to score their own 'thrifted manga' treasures is to be patient and visit a variety of places. Don't just stick to one local thrift store; explore different areas, check out used bookstores, and even look into online marketplaces like Mercari or eBay, though those might not give you the same 'in-person discovery' rush. I always keep a mental wishlist of series I'm hoping to find, but I also stay open to stumbling upon something completely new and unexpected, just like these 'Ultra Cute' volumes. Always check the condition, of course, but don't be afraid of a little wear and tear if the price is right and it's a series you really want! Speaking of 'Ultra Cute', if you're into 'cute manga series' with a mix of romance, comedy, and a dash of drama, this one is definitely worth adding to your radar. Nami Akimoto has such a distinct art style, often featuring those classic 'anime-style female characters' with big, expressive eyes that just draw you in. I remember being so captivated by the vibrant covers even back when I first read volume one. The story of Ami and Noa, competing for love but then navigating revenge against two guys, is such a fun premise. It’s got that classic early 2000s shojo vibe that's just so charming and often hard to find in newer releases. 'Tokyopop' did a great job bringing this series to English readers, and it really holds up as a lighthearted, enjoyable read. I've been trying to branch out from my usual Shonen Jump collection, and finding these shojo titles has been a refreshing change. It's a reminder that there's such a vast world of manga out there beyond the most popular current series. Sometimes going back to older series, especially ones you can find affordably, is the best way to discover new favorites or revisit beloved stories. So next time you're browsing, keep an eye out for those older 'Tokyopop' or 'CMX' titles – you might just find your next obsession. Happy thrifting, fellow manga lovers!
Manga names cuz I can’t see them