What to read, watch, and listen to if you lovedDragon Ball Z
Series · 1989
If you loved Dragon Ball Z, start with Dragon Ball (1986) — a series from the same story. Below: 4 books, 2 films and 2 podcasts, each matched to Dragon Ball Z across media.
What hooked you in Dragon Ball Z was the way Goku’s relentless drive for self-improvement mirrors your own desire to push beyond limits.
Start with the source
The source
Dragon Ball
Series · 1986
Adaptation
Dragon Ball Z: Dead Zone
Daisuke Nishio · Film · 1989
Adaptation
Dragon Ball Z: The World's Strongest
Daisuke Nishio · Film · 1990
Books on the same thread
Dragon Ball Super, Vol. 18
Akira Toriyama · Book
Explores: Heroic Journey, Supernatural Combat, Defending Humanity.
This volume continues the epic struggle to defend humanity that defined Dragon Ball Z, proving that Goku’s heroic journey remains as vital and action-packed as ever for dedicated fans.
Dragon Ball Super, Vol. 24
Akira Toriyama · Book
Explores: power scaling, heroic rivalry, cosmic stakes.
Fans of Dragon Ball Z will recognize the familiar intensity of high-stakes training arcs and the classic heroic rivalry that keeps Goku constantly striving for new levels of power.
Dragon Ball Super, Vol. 16
Akira Toriyama · Book
Explores: revenge, superpowered combat, legacy.
Just as the intergalactic conflicts in Dragon Ball Z kept you on edge, this story explores the complex legacy of the Saiyans through a gripping and personal quest for revenge.
Dragon Ball Super, Vol. 20
Akira Toriyama · Book
Explores: Power scaling, Rivalry, Heroic training.
The intense power scaling and constant need for heroic training featured here capture the same spirit of growth and competitive spirit that made Dragon Ball Z an unforgettable experience.
Films on the same thread
Dragon Ball Super: Broly
Tatsuya Nagamine · Film · 2018
Shares 2 threads with Dragon Ball Z: Shonen, Martial Arts Anime.
This film expands the Saiyan heritage established in Dragon Ball Z, delivering the same high-octane power scaling and exploration of destiny that fans have come to expect from the franchise.
Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero
Tetsuro Kodama · Film · 2022
Shares 3 threads with Dragon Ball Z: Good vs Evil, Shonen, Martial Arts Anime.
The battle between good and evil returns with classic intensity, offering a nostalgic look at the legacy of the Red Ribbon Army that first challenged Goku in Dragon Ball Z.
Podcasts on the same thread
Anime Grind
Podcast
Explores: Personal Growth, Goal Setting, Positive Mindset.
This podcast channels the legendary Saiyan grind from Dragon Ball Z, helping you translate the discipline and motivation of your favorite fighters into actionable steps for your own life.
Wake Up and Win
Podcast
Explores: anime inspiration, personal growth, goal achievement.
By connecting the iconic moments that inspired you in Dragon Ball Z to real-life personal growth, this show helps you awaken the same inner hero that powers Goku daily.
Keep exploring
Common questions
What order should I watch Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z?
You should watch Dragon Ball, released in 1986, before starting Dragon Ball Z. Dragon Ball Z picks up after the events of the original series, following Goku as a martial arts champion who is now married with a son and must defend Earth from extraterrestrial invaders.
Is Dragon Ball Z: Dead Zone canon to the Dragon Ball Z series?
Dragon Ball Z: Dead Zone is a 1989 movie based on the Dragon Ball Z franchise. While it features the same characters as the 1989 television series, it functions as a standalone film separate from the main narrative arc involving Goku and his family defending Earth from invaders.
Should I watch Dragon Ball Z: The World's Strongest after finishing Dragon Ball Z?
Dragon Ball Z: The World's Strongest is a 1990 movie released during the run of the Dragon Ball Z television series. You can watch it after finishing the main show, though it serves as an additional cinematic story rather than a direct continuation of the television plot.
How long is the Dragon Ball Z television series?
The Dragon Ball Z television series began in 1989. It follows the story of Goku, a martial arts champion who is married with a son, as he protects Earth from extraterrestrial threats. The series focuses on these ongoing battles against invaders bent on the destruction of the planet.