Naruto: The Tenth Question is a Viz Kids chapter book.  It’s target audience is between 7 and 10 years old. It is adapted from the original stories.  In this volume (#11), the team (Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura) struggle as they take a test in order to advance in their ninja training.  Since it’s not just an ordinary test, it’s full of ninja surprises. Pass or fail, their futures depend on it.

Highlights

All the Genin, or junior ninja, are taking a written test in order to pass on to the next level, the Chunin level.  The students are feeling very pressured.  Some start cheating, many have already been eliminated.  Many more quit rather than face the dreaded “Tenth Question”. And if they pass this, the second part of the test takes place behind a fence in a creepy forest. Yikes!  Five days of survival, ninja style. Suddenly, the book is over, leaving me ready for book 12!

Overall

Located in the front of the book, there is a background on characters, the story up to now, and a map of the setting. With this information, a reader can easily pick it up at this point, not having to start at the first book in the series. There are even word definitions in the back. 

I’m impressed with the series.  I think Tracey West did a great job turning Masashi Kishimoto’s popular manga into an enjoyable chapter book. I wish the series was around when my kids were early/young readers. The story is captivating and can hold the readers attention. It’s great for boys and girls, wether they are into Anime/Manga or not. I really believe this subject matter may encourage reluctant readers, especially if they are into Anime/Manga. 

ComicsOnline gives Naruto: The Tenth Question 5 out of 5 Ninja headbands.