Yakari
By Emily Ashby,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
French cartoon about Native boy has positive messages.

A Lot or a Little?
What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Yakari
Community Reviews
Based on 4 parent reviews
A good, not overwhelming, movie for littles
Report this review
Report this review
What's the Story?
YAKARI is an animated adaptation of a Franco-Belgian comic book series of the same name. It's the story of a brave and kind young Native boy who's graced with the ability to talk to animals thanks to his spirit guide, Great Eagle. His adventures take him all over his environment in the Great Plains, where he befriends a menagerie of wild animals. Along the way, he's joined by his pony, Little Thunder, and his best human friend, Rainbow.
Is It Any Good?
Yakari is a great example of the beauty of simplicity in kids' entertainment. There's nothing fancy about this series, from the traditional animation style to the uncomplicated stories themselves, so it's easy for even young kids to follow along. Yakari's ability to talk to animals adds a fun element for children, and adults will likely enjoy that those characters join the human adults in being positive influences on the spirited but well-meaning boy.
Yakari focuses on a peaceful tribe and emphasizes community and nature. It explores Great Plains traditions, but if you're looking for "authentic" storytelling, this isn't it. For starters, the show generalizes Yakari into a "Sioux" tribe but never specifies which. Stereotypes like mystical Native characters -- Yakari has a "spirit guide" who gives him the ability to talk to animals -- and the reinforcement of traditional gender roles keep this series from feeling as compelling as more authentic shows like Molly of Denali or Spirit Rangers.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what the central characters learn from their adventures in Yakari. How does Yakari overcome the challenges each day brings?
Kids can think about the similarities and differences between Yakari's lifestyle and their own. Do you have things in common? Can you relate to activities like playing, doing chores, or learning from elders?
Native main characters are seldom seen in mainstream television. How is Yakari's culture portrayed? Do you think it's positive, or does it fall into stereotypes? Can you think of other Native characters on screen, and how do they compare?
Yakari is brave, empathetic, and good at communicating with others. Why do you think these are important character strengths?
TV Details
- Premiere date: December 24, 2005
- Cast: Benjamin Nathan-Serio, Eleanor Noble, Sonja Ball
- Network: Online
- Genre: Kids' Animation
- Topics: Adventures, Friendship, Great Boy Role Models, History, Wild Animals
- Character Strengths: Communication, Courage, Empathy
- TV rating: TV-Y
- Last updated: February 8, 2023
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
Suggest an Update
Where to Watch
Our Editors Recommend
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate