"In another world, ninja are the ultimate power--and in the village of Konohagakure live the stealthiest ninja in the world. But twelve years ago Konohagakure was attacked by a fearsome threat--a nine-tailed fox demon which claimed the life of the Hokage, the village champion. Today, peace has returned, and a troublemaking orphan named Uzumaki Naruto is struggling to graduate from the ninja Academy. His goal: to become the next Hokage. But unknown...

It's been two years since Naruto left to train with Jiraiya. Now he reunites with his old friends to find out he's still not the most accomplished of his former teammates. But when one of them is kidnapped, it's up to Naruto to prove he's got the stuff to save him.

"As the five leaders of the strongest villages in the ninja world meet to discuss the fate of their universe--and how to deal with the ever-looming threat of the rogue organization, the Akatsuki--plans are made that will affect Naruto deeply. The new Hokage, leader of Naruto's village, is not afraid to make the final end move against Naruto's old pal, Sasuke!"--Page 4 of cover.

Finally face-to-face with his ultimate nemesis, Naruto finds out there's way more to the true Pain than he could have ever imagined. As the consequences of the tumultuous politics of the past come to light, an unexpected turn of events puts a new ninja in power in Konoha. And the first act by the new leader will change Narut's world forever.

"Sasuke, Sakura and Naruto finally meet, as the former classmates' complicated past gives way to a violent and unsure future. Naruto realizes he must eventually battle Sasuke one-on-one ... to the death! But with Sasuke and his dark allies bent on complete destruction, and political intrigue in the villages, will the powerful Allied Shinobi Forces allow the two "friends" to meet in battle?!"--Page 4 of cover.

"Shikamaru's team is out for revenge against their mentor's murderers. Tsunade tries to stop them, but Kakashi wants to help! As the divide be tween the ninja grows, the mysterious Akatsuki organization continues their brutal attack on the Tailed Beasts, the Biju, and the young ninja who host them-- including Naruto!"--Page 4 of cover.

Sasuke finally takes on Danzo, the leader of Konoha, determined to interrogate him about the Uchiha clan and what really happened between the political factions of Konoha and his brother, Itachi.

"Kabuto's hold over his army of undead minions tightens as he senses that he's losing power over the stronger members of his Immortal Corps, including Nagato Pain. Sasuke's brother, Itachi, may have the best chance of of breaking Kabuto's hold. But he's still not completely in control of his actions, which means Naruto may have to take him down once and for all." -- Publisher.

Naruto and Gaara face a common enemy in the Akatsuki.