R. O. D.: Read or Die

Yoshihiro Ashikawa’s R. O. D.: Read or Die is a compact, four-issue manga series from Shueisha that launched in 2000, blending espionage with bibliophilia. It follows Yomiko Readman, a mild-mannered teacher and secret agent for the British Library’s Special Operations Division, who can manipulate paper with lethal precision. The series is best known for its inventive, action-driven premise and its influence on the subsequent Read or Die OVA and anime, making it a cult touchstone for fans of manga-infused spy thrillers.