Hobbies And Interests
"Vol. 1: Tests of the Ninja"
The first book in the series, "Tests of the Ninja," tells the instrumental back story that subsequent books build off of. The "Naruto" story begins when the nine-tailed fox demon attacks the village of Konohagakure. It appears as if the demon will destroy the village until the Fourth Hokage, the lead ninja at the time, sacrifices himself to seal the demon inside the body of a newborn child, Naruto. Volume 1 contains chapters 1 to 7.
"Vol. 12: The Great Fight"
The third and final exam of the Chunin Selection process has begun, and Naruto finds himself locked in single combat against the powerful Kaiten. "The Great Fight" depicts the epic battle that ensues between the two combatants seeking to prove they are worthy of promotion. Volume 12 concludes Naruto's training as a Journeyman Ninja in the Ninja Academy, and in subsequent issues Naruto begins taking on more difficult and dangerous assignments. Volume 12 contains chapters 100 to 108.
"Vol. 25: Brothers"
"Brothers" tells the back story of Naruto's best friend Sasuke. Set seven years prior to current events in the story, Sasuke's story explores his relationship with his brother Itachi. The most promising ninja of his clan, Itachi becomes distant after his friend appears to commit suicide. When the police suspect that Itachi may have had a hand in his friend's death, a series of unfortunate events occur that explain Sasuke's behavior ever since that day. Volume 25 contains chapters 218 to 226.
"Vol. 40: The Ultimate Art"
As Naruto becomes a more experienced ninja his powers continue to grow, and so, too, do his enemies. In "The Ultimate Art," readers first meet Naruto's current nemesis in the series, the Akatsuki leader Pain. This volume also marks a significant encounter between the brothers Itachi and Sasuke. Volume 40 contains chapters 360 to 369.