A mysterious boy named Zatch Bell suddenly appears before genius middle schooler Kiyomaro Takamine. With the power to manipulate lightning and a mysterious “red book,” Zatch’s arrival begins to change Kiyomaro’s isolated life. This is a story of tears, friendship, and the battle between a boy and a demon, caught up in the competition to decide the next king of the demon world.
Through numerous encounters and partings with other demons, Zatch vows to become a “kind king” and overcomes many trials together with Kiyomaro. Their growth and bond will undoubtedly resonate deeply with readers.
※This article contains spoilers that reveal key parts of the story.
Overview of Zatch Bell!
- Title (Japanese / English): 金色のガッシュ!! / Zatch Bell!
- Author: Makoto Raiku
- Publisher / Magazine: Shogakukan / Weekly Shonen Sunday
- Volumes / Serialization Period: 33 volumes (2001 Issue 6 to 2008 New Year’s Combined Issue 4/5)
- Genre: Battle Fantasy / Shonen Manga
- Media Adaptations: TV anime, trading card game, video games, 4-panel manga spinoffs
Main Characters and Their Roles
- Zatch Bell: A demon boy who uses lightning spells. Despite losing his memory, he meets Kiyomaro and fights with the goal of becoming a “kind king.”
- Kiyomaro Takamine: A genius middle schooler with an IQ of 190. As the wielder of the red book, he forms a deep bond with Zatch and gradually opens his once-cold heart.
- Tia: A demon girl skilled in defense and healing. With a strong will to protect her friends, she becomes a vital support for Zatch.
- Megumi Oumi: A popular idol who fights alongside Tia. Her gentle yet strong-willed nature plays a key role in defensive and healing battles.
- Kanchome: A duck-like demon who uses illusions and transformations. Initially unreliable, he grows greatly through friendship and courage.
- Folgore: Kanchome’s partner and a famous actor from Italy. Though flamboyant, his love for Kanchome is genuine.
- Umagon: A horse-like demon who cannot speak but shows deep bonds through his straightforward actions.
- Sunbeam: Umagon’s partner. A calm and composed engineer who supports the team both tactically and emotionally.
- Zeno Bell: Zatch’s twin brother and archrival. Consumed by past grudges and hatred, he eventually makes a significant decision.
- Dufort: Zeno’s partner. Intelligent and calm, he contributes not only in battle but also in Kiyomaro’s and Zatch’s training and growth.
Story Summary (Spoiler Warning)
The Lost Prince and the Battle of a Thousand Years
Zatch Bell is sent to the human world with no memory of his past or identity in the demon world. Saved by Kiyomaro’s father, he is entrusted to Kiyomaro along with a mysterious red book. Kiyomaro, though a genius with an IQ of 190, lives an isolated and bitter life. Initially irritated by Zatch’s presence, Kiyomaro slowly opens his heart as they work together to defeat a bank robber, and begins to care for him.
Soon, other children accompanied by books begin to appear, revealing that Zatch is one of 100 demons sent to the human world to determine the next king in a battle held once every thousand years. In this ruthless system, demons are banished back to the demon world when their book is burned. Zatch’s encounter with the gentle demon girl Kolulu, who wishes for a kind king, becomes the emotional catalyst for his goal. Together with Kiyomaro, he begins his journey toward the throne, hoping to recover his lost memories along the way.
A Brother’s Grudge and the Awakening of a Giant Threat
As the number of demons dwindles, the battles grow more intense. Kiyomaro and Zatch learn of Zeno, a demon who looks exactly like Zatch. Zeno is revealed to be Zatch’s twin brother, who once stood as the rightful heir to the throne but was bypassed when the power of Baou was given to Zatch. Consumed by hatred, Zeno secretly plots to destroy his brother. For Zatch, whose memory was erased and who was unknowingly thrown into the battle, this confrontation marks a turning point in his identity.
Meanwhile, after the fierce battle against the ancient demon Zofis, a massive structure from the demon world called Faudo appears in the human realm. Revived by the demon Riou, Faudo is used as a weapon to manipulate allies through curses and threatens the world itself. Kiyomaro is critically injured by Riou’s schemes, but is revived thanks to Zatch and his friends. As they attempt to stop Faudo’s rampage, Zeno reappears, easily overpowers Riou, and seizes control of Faudo. The brothers’ long-standing feud is now set for an inevitable showdown.
The Final Trial and a Farewell That Entrusts the Future
With only ten demons remaining, a new threat named Clear Note emerges. Possessing overwhelming power and a merciless mission to annihilate all demons, Clear begins erasing Zatch’s allies one after another. Unlike past enemies like Zofis or Golm, Clear acts with pure destruction and no emotion. To face this threat, Zatch and Kiyomaro train with the help of Dufort, once an enemy. Yet during the rematch, even Tia, Kanchome, and Umagon fall, tearing apart the bonds and memories they built together.
In the midst of despair, Zatch’s red book begins to shine gold—empowered by the spirits of all the demons he encountered. With their power behind him, Zatch becomes fully awakened and defeats Clear in an epic final battle. Only Kiyomaro and rival Brago remain. In their final duel to decide the next king, Zatch wins and ascends the throne. Parting with Kiyomaro, who tearfully relinquishes his inheritance in exchange for memories, Zatch returns to the demon world. The bond between them, though separated, lives on in their hearts forever.
Iconic Scenes and Quotes
- “I’ll become a kind king…!”
A pivotal moment that defines Zatch’s destiny, spoken after his battle with Kolulu. - “I’ll accept it all! I’ll answer everything!”
Kiyomaro’s determined words to Zeno, embracing even his brother’s pain and hatred. - “I’m not alone!”
Zatch’s cry during the final battle with Clear, powered by his fallen comrades’ strength. - “Goodbye, Zatch… become a king.”
Kanchome’s farewell brings tears, a widely remembered emotional high point.
Themes and Symbolism in Zatch Bell!
A central theme repeated throughout the story is the question of what true strength means. Zatch proves through his actions that the will to protect others—not domination through power—is the trait most worthy of a king. The red book, Baou, and the golden glow serve as recurring motifs symbolizing growth and connection.
Another key motif is “farewell.” The relentless loss of demon companions marks each step of Kiyomaro and Zatch’s growth. Amid these partings, the story leaves a lasting impression of moving forward while carrying memories. It evokes a quiet yearning for reunion that lingers long after reading.
Review and Personal Commentary
The carefully layered narrative and evolving battle arcs demonstrate exceptional storytelling. Kiyomaro and Zatch’s development, and the depth of their relationships with enemies, leave a strong emotional impact on the reader.
While the many characters and intricate spell mechanics may feel dense at first, the richness of emotional storytelling and the lingering impact of the finale elevate this work to something truly special.
If You Liked Zatch Bell!, Read These Manga Too
A masterful blend of battle shonen with themes of growth and parting, “Zatch Bell!” explores the true nature of strength through bonds with demons. It’s a story that reaches beyond genre and touches the heart.
For anyone wondering what to read next—we’ve picked works with thoughtful structure and vivid storytelling.
Recommended for Fans of This Work
- Hikaru no Go: Shares themes of growth and partnership with a supernatural being
- Shaman King: Similar battle mechanics with spiritual partners
- Digimon Adventure: A journey built on bonds with beings from another world
- Naruto: Explores growth from loneliness and deep bonds with friends
- Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai: A classic fantasy tale of justice and friendship
Reader Impressions
- “This manga had me laughing and crying—Zatch’s first appearance hooked me instantly.”
- “The journey to becoming king and the bonds with friends were deeply touching. The graduation scene made me cry.”
- “Reading it again as an adult made the words and growth hit even harder.”
- “The perfect mix of comedy and seriousness. So many tear-jerking moments.”
- “Every demon and their partner had a story. I found myself crying without even realizing it.”
→ Be sure to check out other manga summaries to discover your next great read!