I think 'Kaguya-sama: Love is War' is quite popular. It has a great mix of a boy and a girl's storylines.
Well, 'Your Name' is one. It beautifully portrays the relationship between a girl and a boy and has gained a huge fan base. The art and story are both captivating. There's also 'Fruits Basket', which has engaging characters and an interesting plot involving a girl and a boy.
For me, 'Naruto' stands out. It has a complex and evolving relationship between the main characters, a girl and a boy. The action and character development keep fans hooked. Another popular one could be 'Inuyasha', with its unique fantasy setting and the bond between the lead boy and girl.
The appeal often lies in the contrast and growth of the characters. The dynamic between them creates interesting storylines and emotional arcs.
You could check out 'Prankster Hearts'. In this manga, the girl's pranks on the boy lead to unexpected developments and a growing bond between them. The story has great art and engaging characters.
One popular manga with a smart girl and boy is 'My Little Monster.' It has interesting character development and engaging storylines.
Another well-known series is 'Your Name'. It's not a traditional manga of a boy turning into a girl, but it has elements of body swapping. The story is beautifully crafted and has gained a lot of fans worldwide. Also, 'Kämpfer' is another option where the male protagonist transforms into a female fighter.
One common trope could be the popular boy seeing something unique in the unpopular girl that others don't. Maybe it's her kindness or a hidden talent. Another could be the girl changing her image to fit in, but realizing her true self is more important in the end. Sometimes, the relationship faces opposition from the boy's popular friends.
You could check out 'Ouran High School Host Club'. In this manga, a girl dresses up as a boy to work at a club. The plot is full of funny and romantic moments.
You might enjoy 'Hana Kimi'. The story follows a girl who poses as a boy to get close to her idol at an all-boys school. It has great character development and funny moments.
One such manga is 'Love in the Time of Rebellion.' It has a compelling story of a delinquent couple's love journey.
Often, it involves the nerd boy having a crush on the popular girl and trying to win her over through his unique qualities or hidden talents.
One common theme could be the growth and transformation of the unpopular girl as she interacts with the popular boy. Maybe she gains more confidence or discovers new sides of herself.