“5 Fun and Funky Facts About Dr. Slump and Arale-chan”

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Author’s Note

Dr. Slump is the first Toriyama manga I remember seeing—and what a wild introduction it was.

This was before Dragon Ball, but already, Toriyama’s humor and charm were on full display.

The way he drew Arale—with her huge head and simple, expressive face—was irresistible.

So many of us tried to copy that art style.

It was easy to draw, but full of personality.

And more than that, it made us laugh.

Thank you, Toriyama-sensei.

Your art will always be alive in the laughter you gave us.

🤖 1. Dr. Slump Was Toriyama’s First Major Hit

Before Dragon Ball, Akira Toriyama made his name with Dr. Slump.

Serialized from 1980 to 1984, it won the Shogakukan Manga Award and became a nationwide hit—especially among kids.

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🧠 2. Arale Is a Robot, But Acts Like a Child

Arale Norimaki, the main character, is a robot girl created by the eccentric Dr. Senbei Norimaki.

Despite her insane strength and robotic nature, she behaves like an energetic, innocent child—causing total chaos in Penguin Village.

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🧒 3. The Art Style Encouraged Fans to Copy It

Arale’s oversized head, big round glasses, and wide grin became a favorite among young fans trying to draw manga.

Toriyama’s clean lines and cartoonish proportions made it easy—and fun—to imitate.

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🌍 4. Penguin Village Is a Surreal Comedy Wonderland

The story is set in the fictional “Penguin Village,” where nothing makes sense and absurd things happen all the time—from talking poop to aliens dropping by for tea.

It’s a gag manga paradise.

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🎮 5. Arale Lives On in Dragon Ball Cameos

Even after Dr. Slump ended, Arale didn’t disappear.

She makes surprise appearances in Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Super, and even video games—often overwhelming characters like Vegeta with her ridiculous strength.