The manga series Akane-banashi has recently introduced an exciting development in the Futatsume Debut Event storyline, grabbing readers with a special nod to Dragon Ball through its latest chapter’s cover art.
Rapidly becoming one of the most talked-about series within Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump magazine, Akane-banashi has distinguished itself with its novel exploration of Rakugo storytelling.
The series has consistently showcased the growth of its protagonist, Akane, as she endeavors to establish her reputation within the world of Rakugo, with both the narrative and the artwork receiving high praise for their quality.
The creative minds behind Akane-banashi, Yuki Suenaga, and Takamasa Moue, have previously incorporated homages to other notable series from Shonen Jump, yet they elevated their expressions of admiration in the artwork for Chapter 105.
This chapter’s cover art, presented in vibrant colors, features the protagonist Akane executing a Kamehameha Wave, mirroring the iconic move used by Goku and other characters in Dragon Ball.
This homage serves as a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Akira Toriyama, further enriching the manga’s connection to its Shonen Jump roots.
Following the news of Akira Toriyama’s passing earlier this Spring, Yuki Suenaga, co-creator of Akane-banashi, was among several Shonen Jump artists who expressed their condolences, stating,
“It was so sudden that I am at a loss for words. From the bottom of my heart, may you rest in peace.”
This chapter’s Dragon Ball-inspired cover art elevates their tribute to a new height, celebrating Toriyama’s influence on the world of manga.
For those interested in experiencing Akane-banashi firsthand, Viz Media’s digital Shonen Jump library offers the three most recent chapters for free, making it easily accessible to new readers.
Shueisha describes Akane-banashi as a deep get into the art of Rakugo, the pinnacle of storytelling, where narrators bring stories to life using only their voices and gestures. The narrative follows Shinta and his daughter Akane, who are grabbed by this mesmerizing form of traditional performance.
Witnessing her father’s efforts to pass the shin’uchi rakugo exam, Akane is inspired to embark on her own journey within this distinctive art form, setting the stage for a compelling story of ambition and cultural heritage.