My Hero Academia Vol. 1 by Kohei Horikoshi
In My Hero Academia Vol. 1, the story introduces us to a world where nearly everyone is born with a unique superpower, or Quirk. These abilities are so common that they’ve become integrated into society, with many individuals aspiring to become professional heroes, who protect citizens from villains using their powers. However, the protagonist, Izuku Midoriya, is born without a Quirk, a rare and heartbreaking condition in a world where powers define a person’s worth.
Despite his lack of powers, Midoriya has a burning desire to become a hero, inspired by his idol, the legendary All Might, the world’s greatest hero. He’s always dreamed of following in All Might’s footsteps, but with no Quirk to call his own, it seems impossible. But fate takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with All Might, leading to a life-changing encounter that will alter his path forever.
Key Highlights of My Hero Academia Vol. 1:
- Introduction to Izuku Midoriya: The story begins by introducing Izuku Midoriya, a kind-hearted but unlucky boy who has always dreamed of being a hero, despite lacking a Quirk. He’s constantly bullied by classmates who mock him for being powerless, but his resolve to become a hero never wavers. Midoriya’s inner strength and deep belief in the ideals of heroism set him apart, making him a relatable and likable protagonist for readers.
- All Might’s Appearance and Legacy: All Might, the symbol of peace and justice in the world, is introduced as Midoriya’s greatest hero. He’s incredibly powerful, larger than life, and beloved by the public. All Might’s Quirk, One For All, allows him to unleash massive amounts of strength, but it also comes with a great cost. In a surprising twist, Midoriya has a chance encounter with All Might, leading to a life-changing moment that will bring Midoriya closer to his dream of becoming a hero—despite the odds.
- The First Step to Becoming a Hero: After a dangerous encounter with a villain, Midoriya’s dream of being a hero seems impossible—until he learns that All Might’s Quirk can be passed down. In an emotional and pivotal moment, All Might chooses Midoriya as his successor, and the boy is granted the power of One For All, a Quirk that will push him to his limits. With One For All now inside him, Midoriya must quickly learn to harness this incredible power and face the challenges of entering the prestigious U.A. High School, an academy where the world’s future heroes are trained.
- U.A. High School and Class 1-A: After receiving All Might’s Quirk, Midoriya enrolls at U.A. High School, a prestigious institution dedicated to training the next generation of pro heroes. He becomes part of Class 1-A, alongside other unique and talented students with their own remarkable Quirks. Midoriya is surrounded by classmates like the fiery and competitive Katsuki Bakugo, the cool and enigmatic Shoto Todoroki, and the cheerful and kind Ochaco Uraraka. Each of these characters brings something special to the table, and the dynamics of Class 1-A will play a crucial role in the series’ growth.
- First Major Battle: Midoriya’s first real test as a hero-in-training comes during the U.A. Entrance Exam, a brutal and competitive test designed to evaluate the students’ Quirks and combat skills. The exam is a mix of obstacle courses and battle simulations where the students must face off against robotic opponents. Midoriya, though initially overwhelmed by his lack of experience and control over One For All, manages to show incredible heart and determination during the exam. His fight against the robotic enemies showcases the pure courage and potential within him, even if he can’t fully control his newfound power yet.
- Bakugo’s Rivalry with Midoriya: A major theme in Vol. 1 is the intense rivalry between Izuku Midoriya and Katsuki Bakugo, who was once Midoriya’s childhood friend. Bakugo is talented, brash, and confident, with a Quirk that allows him to create explosions from his hands. His aggressive nature and superiority complex make him resent Midoriya’s sudden leap in status after receiving One For All. This rivalry fuels much of the early drama in the story, as Midoriya constantly strives to prove himself to Bakugo, his classmates, and even himself. The relationship between these two characters evolves throughout the series, but Vol. 1 lays the groundwork for the emotional conflict that will develop.
- Themes of Determination and Heroism: Vol. 1 introduces the core themes that define the series: the idea that true heroism isn’t defined by power alone, but by determination, kindness, and the willingness to protect others. Midoriya’s lack of a Quirk doesn’t stop him from aspiring to be a hero—he shows that anyone, regardless of their background, can be a hero if they have the courage to act. This theme resonates deeply with readers and is a key aspect of the series’ appeal.
- World-Building and Quirks: The world of My Hero Academia is rich with detail, and Vol. 1 does an excellent job of setting the stage for the series’ larger world. In this society, Quirks have become so common that they’re seen as a natural part of life. The book touches on the structure of hero society, where pro heroes are revered and villainy is a serious threat. We also get introduced to the concept of hero rankings, the U.A. High School, and the Entrance Exam that sets up the journey for Midoriya and his classmates.
Why You’ll Love My Hero Academia Vol. 1:
- Inspiring Protagonist: Izuku Midoriya is one of the most relatable protagonists in modern manga. His journey from powerless to powerful resonates with anyone who has faced adversity. His kindness, determination, and desire to help others make him an inspiring character, and his growth throughout the series is something readers can’t help but root for.
- Engaging World: The world of My Hero Academia is unique and imaginative, filled with quirky characters and a rich societal structure. From the existence of pro heroes to the influence of Quirks, the series presents a world that is both expansive and fascinating. The U.A. High School setting provides endless possibilities for exciting adventures, rivalries, and challenges.
- Dynamic Action: Vol. 1 features dynamic, high-energy action sequences, particularly during the U.A. Entrance Exam and Midoriya’s attempts to control One For All. The creative use of Quirks adds a unique element to the battles, making each fight exciting and unpredictable.
- Strong Emotional Core: At its heart, My Hero Academia is about more than just fighting and superpowers—it’s about the emotional growth of its characters. Midoriya’s internal struggles, his journey of self-discovery, and his unwavering belief in heroism make this a story that’s easy to connect with on an emotional level.
- Humor and Heart: While the series is filled with action, Vol. 1 also has moments of humor and warmth. The quirky personalities of Midoriya’s classmates, as well as his interactions with All Might, bring a lighthearted touch to the story, balancing out the more intense and dramatic moments.
Conclusion:
My Hero Academia Vol. 1 is the perfect introduction to a series that blends action, character development, and heart. As we meet Izuku Midoriya and witness his journey from a powerless boy to a hero-in-training, readers are drawn into a world where heroism isn’t defined by strength, but by willpower, determination, and selflessness. The volume establishes important themes, introduces memorable characters, and sets the stage for a thrilling, emotionally charged series. Whether you’re a fan of superhero stories or manga in general, Vol. 1 is a must-read that will leave you eager for the next installment.
