My Hero Academia Volume 2

Synopsis

The once quirkless Midoryia’s dream of being a superhero has finally become a reality. He has inherited the extraordinary All Might’s abilities and is officially enrolled in the esteemed U.A. High School. Between mock battles and studying to be a superhero, Midoryia must also learn how to control his newly inherited powers. Midoryia has a long journey ahead of him to become the greatest superhero. 

Review and Recommendation

Volume two of My Hero Academy is even more action-packed than the previous version. However, more of the MHA world is built through the action. This volume focuses on two significant points: the rivalry between Midoryia and Kaachan and the ethics of superherodom. Midorya and Kaachan’s relationship is, of course, complicated and made even more complicated by Midorya’s inheritance of All Might’s abilities. The sequence that reveals the origins of their rivalry is perfectly paced with intense action sequences that highlight the difference in their personalities and motivations for becoming superheroes. The mock battles in this volume introduce the complex responsibility of heroes. It’s not enough just to be able to use powers, but to use their powers in a way that serves the people without destroying entire cities or hurting civilians. MHA volume two balances plot progression with intense action wonderfully and ends on a fierce cliffhanger that sets up volume three perfectly. 

Cautions

*Spoiler Alert* (A spoiler alert is being issued because there are mentions of specific plot points that relate to the rating of this review.) 

My Hero Academia (MHA) volume two is again rated Teen due to fantasy violence. There is still some mild language with a few suggestive comments. Midoryia and Kacchan continue to have a rift in their relationship, and Kacchan often targets Midoryia. This volume has more elongated action sequences due to the superhero training at U.A. High School. I still agree with the manga’s initial recommended rating for readers aged 13 and up.