Here are just a few (some of which have not been mentioned yet
), in no particular order:
Satoshi Mizukami (
The Lucifer And Biscuit Hammer {a.k.a.
Hoshi no Samidare},
Spirit Circle, etc.) - I am convinced this man is a genius. Everything I've read from him so far has been a brilliant combination of smart, funny, and moving. Can't wait to read more.
Shinobu Takayama (
Amatsuki, etc.) - Another genius here, if
Amatsuki is anything to go by. The art, unique genre mix, endearing characters, and deliciously mind-twisty plot are all fantastic.
Jun Mochizuki (
Pandora Hearts) - Again, excellent art, excellent characters, and excellent twisty plot.
Yuki Midorikawa (
Natsume's Book Of Friends,
Akaku Saku Koe,
Hiiro no Isu, etc.) - There's just something about the works of this particular mangaka that have a quiet beauty about them.
Ichigo Takano (
Orange,
ReCollection, etc.) -
Orange is deeply moving;
ReCollection is funny and intriguing; both are excellent.
Hiromu Arakawa (
Fullmetal Alchemist,
Silver Spoon,
The Heroic Legend Of Arslan remake, etc.) - Yeah, I don't think this really needs any explanation. She rocks.
The
Tsugumi Ohba/
Takeshi Obata writing/drawing team (
Death Note,
Bakuman.) - These two are so good together. (And, actually, Obata-sensei's work on
Hikaru no Go was great, too.)
And
Ryohgo Narita (
Baccano!,
Durarara!!, etc. ...And yes, I know that he mostly writes novels; however, I'm counting him because #1, they're awesome, and #2, I can.
And he *does* have an actual manga coming out soon, anyway.
) - The detailed, interwoven plots and huge, unique casts of characters this guy comes up with are just plain fantastic.