Oh...kawaii! (meaning cute)

That is the usual reaction to anime, especially Pokemon. Don't be deceived, though...

In my opinion (see...opinion), Pokemon deserves a higher rating than "Y", simply because it isn't all cute stuff. The underlying messages here are to capture and trap Pokemon (wild animals, really), and then use them to fight against each other. While there are morals linked in (as simple as they may be), the cruelty of the Pokemon trainers is not something that I think young children should be exposed to on a daily basis. That is why it would be more appropriate for children in say, 4-6 grades. My score: 2/5 stars, Action/Adventure.

Card Captor Sakura is another good one for this age group. It is not overly violent and her treatment of what she captures is much better than what is seen in Pokemon (grrrr....). It is about a girl (Sakura) in fourth grade who has to find the Clow cards with the help of her adorable guardian, Kero. The English version is slightly different, and has been named Cardcaptors (not as good as the Japanese version). Again, this one is probably for 4-6, because of an unusual relationship between Sakura and a boy that is about six years older than her. The verdict: 4.5/5 stars, Action/Adventure/Romance.

Sorry girls...you heard me right.

Sailor Moon is probably one of the most popular and well-known anime (all Pokemons aside). This one is at the top of my list, most likely tied with something else for first. In the US, Sailor Moon was released to target girls in the early teens. Strangely enough, it became a show that was popular with younger girls. I agree with the fact that it should be viewed by adolescents. A lot of the show deals with relationships, maturing, girl-stuff (make-up, shopping, eating, guys...you know), and "love and justice". It surprises me that young girls would even be interested (but then again, like Pokemon, the bright, flashy, fun colors could draw in anyone). While the violence is rather mild, there are still the romances and relationships that young girls shouldn't really be thinking about until about junior high. Mostly, it is a safe show though. I'd say, 4/5 stars, a little of everything here.

Now this one could probably be a fight for Sailor Moon...Gundam Wing. This might be my favorite...but anyway, Gundam Wing is a series from the legendary Gundam anime. Yes, Gundam has its own category in anime. It does. There is so much of it and it is so incredibly popular in Japan, that it has become one of its own. Gundam Wing is a must see for both guys and girls. The guys will like the action and mecha, as well as the intensity of the characters. The girls will also like the characters (the gundam pilots are VERY cute). This show will almost always keep you watching with its quick twists and turns in the plot. Definitely a 4.5 if not a 5/5, Action/Adventure.

A new one to arrive is Tenchi Muyo! (you must include the exclamation point!). So far it seems ok in terms of content. I am surprised they gave this a "Y7" rating because of the violence and romance. While both are in comical sense, they are a little naughty. Perhaps this would be a borderline show for junior high or high school. Can't rate this one because there haven't been enough episodes aired yet. From what I have seen, I can say it is very amusing and the animation is surprisingly good and clear.

The ever-controversial Sailor Moon S...

The most recent of the Sailor Moon series to air in the US is Sailor Moon S. This is by far the best season in my perspective. This one might just win it for Sailor Moon. Again, this is another one that a "Y7" does not seem appropriate. While the dubbing company did a pretty good job of destroying the romance between two of the sailors (Uranus and Neptune), there are still some things which are a little mature for an age 7 audience. The violence level is about the same, except that peoples' hearts are being stolen, which is a little more disturbing (especially since the people are dead without their hearts). There is a strong message of sacrifice and the possibility of the death of each sailor when their hearts are stolen. Some of the younger audiences may be upset by this. However, this is definitely a must-see. Drum roll please....5/5!