Recently Read: Naruto Volume 27

 

Naruto Vol. 27, "Departure", is a respite between the story's Part 1 and Part 2 (volumes 28-72).Its downtime involves healing, camaraderie and renewed commitments. Understanding they have two and a half years before Orochimaru can completely claim Sasuke's body and soul, Naruto leaves to train with Jiraiya, while Sakura studies to be a mission medic under Tsunade's instruction.

Before Part 2 begins the series' time-jump, creator Masashi Kishimoto tells a flashback/side story: insight into Kakashi's past and the mysterious origin of his covered eye. If you're a fan of Kakashi (I am), this is essential reading.

In a brief preface, Kishimoto states that "...I don't think Naruto needs to be broken up into parts". Why did he, then? Was it editorial decree? I'd love to learn more about the inner workings of this series. 

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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 19

 

Naruto Volume 19, "Successor", reveals Tsunade's choice: will she heal Orochimaru's hands in exchange for the rebirth of her loved Dan and Nawaki, or instead commit to be the new Hokage? Most of the book encompasses one intense battle involving not only Orochimaru, Tsunade, Jiraiya, Naruto, Shizune and Kabuto, but the toads Gamakichi and Gamatatsu. These latter two, joined with Tsunade's pig Tonton, offer some very funny commentary on the proceedings, giving levity to a deathly dangerous situation. For sustained and complex thrills and drama, Masashi Kishimoto's manga can't be beat.

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Recently Read: Naruto Vol. 17

 

The narrative gets slowed down a bit in Vol. 17, to the story's benefit. The first half pits the evil Itachi and Kisame against Sasuke, Naruto and Jiraiya, with a disturbing flashback involving the senseless murder of Sasuke and Itachi's parents. The remainder of the book involves Jiraiya's training of Naruto, with scenes of the reckless, gambling-addicted Tsunade on the side. Along the way, Orochimaru tends his wounds and plans revenge. Sakura seems to sadly be getting shunted to the side in the current storylines; she's relegated to three small panels in this volume.

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