Monster

Naoki Urasawa's Monster (1995–2002) is a gripping psychological thriller published by Shogakukan that follows Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a brilliant Japanese neurosurgeon working in Germany, whose life unravels after he chooses to save a young boy over a prominent politician. That boy, Johan Liebert, grows into a charismatic and elusive serial killer, and Tenma must pursue him across Europe to atone for his decision. Known for its dense, mature storytelling and Urasawa's meticulous art, the series is a landmark in seinen manga, exploring themes of morality, identity, and the nature of evil without supernatural elements. Its 18-volume run remains a defining work of 1990s manga, celebrated for its cinematic pacing and complex human drama.