NARUTO -ナルト- 1

First time reading this series! (I have read the first two volumes in English, but that's it). Content/enjoyment wise, this first volume definitely has that early series feel where it seems like the author is just getting going and figuring out what they're trying to do. The volume picks up quite a bit as soon as Kakashi shows up, though!

I really enjoyed the art- there's a nice balance of silly expressions and detailed art, and some beautiful 2-pg spreads.

Language learning wise, there is quite a bit of casual slang, mostly from Naruto himself. I found this to be the biggest hurdle to reading, but got used to it by the end of the volume.

Casual speech styles and specialty vocab

i'm a huge fan of this series so i am deeply biased, but it's my first time reading it in Japanese and i've just been having such a great time

the first chapter is a bit long (50-ish pages) and very dialogue-heavy, but don't let it dissuade you! it's trying to give you a ton of worldbuilding about what naruto's place in this ninja village is. all of the following chapters are short and readable and absolutely hilarious

there is quite a bit of casual speech, so i recommend having a shortened speech guide available if you don't already know how to decipher it

the art is incredible - if you've only ever watched the series, your mind is about to be blown by how much absolutely fascinating detail was left out of the animation. i find myself taking screenshots of panels just because i love the details in them.