Naruto, Vol. 5 - Shinobi Weapons
These episodes of the martial arts comedy-adventureNarutobring the first mission of ninjas-in-training Naruto, Sakura, and Sosuke to its conclusion. The battle of the bridge ends with Naruto and Haku making long speeches about the role of dedication and loyalty in the code of the ninja. But the self-conscious speechifying about ancient traditions clashes with Naruto's modern slang, and Susan Dalian's voice is too feminine to be effective as Haku. Naruto's words touch the hardened heart of Zabuza, reminding him of his one-time dedication tobushido, the warrior's code. Once the fight is over, Naruto reverts to the knuckle-headed behavior fans know and love: quarreling with Sosuke, flirting with Sakura, and trying the patience of Kakashi-sensei. Episode 20 marks the beginning of the next story, with junior ninjas from all the villages assembling for the next round of qualifying exams. (Unrated, suitable for ages 12 and older: violence, tobacco use)--Charles Solomon