Dragonball Z

Dragonball Z

Shonen Jump Comics 1984
Author/Artist: Akiri Toryama



ISBN-13: 978-1569319307

Plot Summary:
A popular Manga turned series. It initiated in the 80’s as a Manga and turned in to an anime series… Volume one is about son Goku and the Z warriors defending the earth against evil. In the this Dragonball, Son Goku begins his adventures when he meets, Bulma. They crash into one another as she searches for the seven Dragonballs. SonGoku is not from Earth. He is a hero and a well trained martial artist making him a formidable opponent in the face of evil. The series illustrates a strong dichotomy between good and evil. According to The official DragonballZ website, Dragonball Z teaches valuable lessons on , “teamwork, loyalty, and trustworthiness.”

Critical Evaluation: Son Goku and his Dragon Warriors work with Bulma together and the demonstration of teamwork and loyalty are positive messages. This series would be good for younger readers, but teens enjoy the series as well. Dragonball Z is one of the most requested manga titles. It is a series with a positive message. Son Goku functions as a hero with values, and unlike Graphic Novels, this story is inspiring role model to teens.

Annotation: Bulma seeks the help of Son Goku to find the seven Dragonballs. Son Goku is a hero and a well-trained martial artist. Volume one follows Son Goku and his Dragon Warriors as they team up with Bulma to help on the quest.

About the Author:
Akiri Toryama was born on April 5, 1955, in Kiyosu, Aishi, Japan. He is a well known Japanese Manga Artist known mostly for his 1984, manga series, Dragon Ball Z. He entered the manga scene in 1980. He claims he likes to draw whatever he wants until he either "gets it or loses interest in it."

Genre: Manga

Curriculum Ties: none

Reading Level/ Interest Age: 7th grade and up

Challenge Issues: There are no challenge issues.

Reason for selections: I chose this book because of the empowering team efforts demonstrated by Son Goku and his Dragon Warriors, and also because it is a highly demanded series. I believe if it is in demand, it is better to have it available for the reluctant older teen readers as well as the younger teens.