Book Review: One-Punch Man Vol. 1 & 2 by One and Yusuke Murata

One-Punch Man Volume 1 story by One and art by Yusuke Murata

A new hero named One Punch Man travels the land, fighting monsters in the various cities (which are all named after alphabet letters for some reason). His civilian name is Saitama. His hero name refers to how he beats every villain with one punch. He's a bit bored with the routine. He became a hero for fun, working out so hard he made himself prematurely bald. In one adventure he crosses paths with Genos, a lone cyborg who fights for justice and to hunt down the villain who put him in his half-robotic state. Genos wants to be One Punch Man's protégé. This leads to a battle with a group of animal-themed monsters who might be more of a match for Saitama.

The story is entertaining but not particularly deep. It's enjoyable enough to keep going.

Mildly recommended.

One-Punch Man Volume 2 story by by One and art by Yusuke Murata

With his new follower Genos, One Punch Man goes after the House of Evolution. The House's leader is a  scientist who wants to evolve the human race. None of his colleagues believe he is right or even can succeed. With an eminent attack, the House of Evolution pulls out all the stops to halt the heroic duo. Meanwhile, a new group of villains want to eliminate the need for work so people can just enjoy life. They call themselves "Paradisers." They are all bald, so people start assuming One Punch Man is one of them. Saitama has to take them down to protect is reputation. During the conflict, he realizes he has no reputation--no one recognizes him as a hero! So he has other problems to deal with.

This is another light-hearted volume that is entertaining.

Mildly recommended.