2023: the final reading log of the year

In this post, I talk about a couple of books and graphic novels that I read this year, specifically the ones I liked and the ones I didn’t like.

Revisiting the Shinobi World: ‘Naruto,’ the Akatsuki Suppression Mission Arc

Naruto continues with its ninth arc, the Akatsuki Suppression Mission, which features another training session with Naruto, and Team 10 (aka: Asuma’s team) fight against Hidan and Kakuzu. There is a lot to love about this arc, specifically the emotional rollercoaster that Kishimoto puts his readers through. However, there are other things that I did…

Revisiting the Shinobi World: ‘Naruto,’ Search for Tsunade Arc

The Naruto series by Masashi Kishimoto continues with the fourth arc, Search for Tsunade, which comes after Konoha Crush. So far, the fourth arc is the shortest in Kishimoto’s series. It also inches readers closer to the turning point of the story.

Revisiting the Shinobi World: ‘Naruto’, The Chūnin Exams Arc

The story continues with the exciting Chūnin Exams arc! Rereading the series made me come to the realization that I have forgotten a lot of details. Aside from the background details, one thing that stood out to me in this arc was the characters’ uncertainty. Sakura’s lack of confidence in her own strengths and abilities is prominent in this arc. Her shining moment was when she found her resolve to protect her teammates. However, Sasuke and Naruto also find themselves in a similar situation. Their hesitation is triggered by their fear of stronger opponents, though the weight of their realizations differ.

Revisiting the Shinobi World: ‘Naruto,’ Prologue—The Land of Waves Arc

I first read Naruto by Masashi Kishimoto in mid-2014 and I loved it. I decided that I would read it again this year, 2023. So far, the story is as I remember it: the first arc is full of great art, simple storytelling, and memorable characters.