Dragon Ball Volume 1: The Monkey King delivers an exciting and humorous introduction to Akira Toriyama’s iconic series. The story follows Son Goku, a naive but incredibly strong boy with a monkey tail, as he meets Bulma, a genius teenager searching for the seven mystical Dragon Balls. Their dynamic is charming, with Bulma’s exasperation and Goku’s innocent nature creating a sibling-like relationship that fuels much of the volume’s humor.
Goku’s good-hearted naiveté brings plenty of comedic moments, from his confusion over gender differences to his unwavering belief in honesty and fairness. This innocence makes him an immediately likable protagonist and allows for natural character development as he learns about the world beyond his secluded mountain home. Bulma, though sometimes selfish and impatient, is resourceful and courageous, proving herself as a worthy companion.
The volume also introduces memorable side characters like Oolong, a shapeshifting trickster, and Yamcha, a desert bandit with his loyal feline companion, Puar. Yamcha’s initial rivalry with Goku adds action to the story, while Oolong’s cowardly antics provide comic relief.
The storytelling is adventurous, heartwarming, and fast-paced, blending humor with exciting battles and a sense of wonder. Goku’s journey feels like a classic fairy tale with martial arts flair, making it an engaging read for both new and returning fans. The character interactions, lighthearted comedy, and well-paced action set a strong foundation for the legendary saga to come.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Production:
Dragon Ball Volume 1: The Monkey King showcases Akira Toriyama’s signature blend of humor, adventure, and martial arts action, supported by his distinct and expressive art style. The storytelling is engaging and lighthearted, making it a fun and fast-paced read. Toriyama’s writing captures a sense of wonder, as Goku’s journey introduces readers to a vibrant world filled with quirky characters and imaginative settings. The humor, often driven by Goku’s innocent misunderstandings, adds charm to the narrative.
However, the oversexualization—particularly of Bulma—quickly becomes excessive and annoying. While some moments may have been intended as comedic, they often feel unnecessary and detract from the otherwise well-crafted story. The repeated use of risqué gags, especially involving Bulma, can be distracting and dated.
Despite this, Toriyama’s artwork is fantastic. His character designs are expressive and memorable, perfectly complementing the comedic and adventurous tone. Action scenes are dynamic and fluid, making battles easy to follow while maintaining a strong sense of movement. The world itself is beautifully designed, featuring lush landscapes, futuristic technology, and ancient martial arts influences, creating a setting that feels both magical and lived-in.
While there is nudity, it is not overly gratuitous and is often used cleverly in ways that serve the humor or storytelling rather than feeling entirely out of place. Overall, Toriyama’s writing and artwork make Dragon Ball Volume 1 an enjoyable read, though the excessive fanservice might be off-putting to some readers.
Rating: 3 out of 5
The Verdict:
In the end, Dragon Ball Volume 1: The Monkey King is a fun, adventurous start to Akira Toriyama’s beloved series, filled with humor, action, and an imaginative world. Goku’s innocence and Bulma’s resourcefulness make for a compelling duo, while the supporting cast adds depth and excitement. The storytelling is engaging, and the artwork is dynamic and expressive, enhancing both the action and comedy. However, the oversexualization of Bulma is excessive and distracting. Despite this flaw, the volume remains an enjoyable introduction to the series. Dragon Ball Volume 1: The Monkey King gets 4 out of 5
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