Recently Read: Naruto Volume 33

The Naruto series is known for its epic battles, but Volume 33's "The Secret Mission" perhaps outdoes all that came before. When the literally slimy Orochimaru triggers Naruto's Four-Tailed Demon Fox to take control of the young ninja's body, the ensuing havoc is gargantuan, inventive and, at times, deeply weird and visionary. Kishimoto's graphics here, using art techniques new to the series, sometimes recall Moebius or Frank Miller. The conflict is on a gargantuan scale. Ending quietly, with new revelations about Sai and his mentor, Danzo, this volume is one to experience. 

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Pop Culture Paper Ephemera for Perusal and Purchase on NenoWorld

 

Pop Culture Paper Ephemera (nenoworld.com)

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Recently Read: Naruto, Vol. 20: Naruto vs. Sasuke

Naruto Vol. 20 begins on a bittersweet note, with Tsunade taking on the role of fifth Hokage and Sasuke falling under the malevolent influence of Orochimaru, due to his desire for revenge against Itachi. Tsunade's healing powers, at the same time, can do little for the physically broken Rock Lee, who nevertheless becomes mentally reinvigorated after a long talk with his mentor, Guy.

Sasuke insists on tackling Naruto in combat, a proposition Naruto is enthusiastic about. Their bout ends with an interesting talk between Kakashi and Jiraiya. Orochimaru's scouts The Sound Ninja Four, meanwhile, have made their way to Konoha and give Sasuke a proposition he may not refuse. Vol. 20 provides some relative quiet time after the previous chapter's storm and set the stage for more intrigue.

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Recently Read: Naruto, Volume 9

The second of at least three volumes covering the elimination matches of the Journeyman Ninja Selection Exams, Naruto Vol. 9 features several intense and clever battles between the few surviving students. While featuring less characterization and insights into Naruto's complex world and history than usual, "Neji vs. Hinata" is a masterclass in cartooning, with superb pacing, detailed textures, explosive lettering and top-notch choreography and composition.

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Recently Read: Naruto Book 5: The Challengers

The centerpiece of Naruto Book Five: The Challengers is a 110-page exam sequence; our ninja-in-training heroes Naruto, Sakura and Sasuke take the Chûnin Exams, in order to become full-fledged shinobi. This could be the most suspenseful exam sequence in comics, where the rules may be designed to be subverted, the room is monitored by a wall of over-lookers, alliances are made, and psychological pressure is intrinsic to the test.

A second, Hunger Games-like test taking place in the Forest of Death is set up and continues into Book Six

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Recently Read: Naruto, Vol. 3

Naruto Vol. 3, the strongest of the series so far, first gives us some quiet scenes explaining the back story of the village of Konohagakure (and the evil of antagonist Gato). It then culminates in a thrilling 100-page battle sequence which seems far from over at the end of the book. This isn't your dad's Hulk vs. Thor sort of fight; it's a strategic, character and ability-revealing competition with amazing graphics and pacing.

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