Even Japan is getting into education-based releases. This time, they take the form of Edu-Manga; in short, volumes focused around particularly relevant historical figures and their contributions to society. Ranging from more modern individuals such as Albert Einstein and Helen Keller, back to older figures like Joan of Arc, the manga use a style comparable to that of the American cartoon Histeria!, or even the earlier years of Doctor Who, to get their message across to the younger generation. By using one of the most recognizable characters in the history of manga, Astro Boy, as an observer to this history, it grounds the story, giving kids something to keep their focus.
The books were originally released in Japan back in 2001, but were first brought over and translated for a North American audience by Digital Manga Publishing in 2006. Each volume is written and drawn by a different team, however I assume consistency will be maintained, as Astro Boy is universally drawn in the same style whenever he appears. I am intrigued to see how accurate the biographies told within the manga truly are, so expect a more thorough review of the individual volumes in the near future, thanks to Akadot Retail having a bundle of four in stock. If you work at a school library or even the children’s section of a random branch, this sounds like a nice set of manga to add to your collection.