Can I start reading the series with this volume?

Reading this volume first is not recommended because it continues an ongoing mission from the previous two books. New readers should begin with the first volume to understand the established team dynamics and the start of the current story arc.

Is there a difference between the manga and the anime version of this story?

The manga is a single continuous series of 72 volumes, whereas the anime adaptation splits the narrative into two distinct series. This volume covers material from the early chapters of the first anime series.

Naruto, Vol. 3

Manga Short Stories

Pages: 205
Published: 2000
Language: English

Synopsis

While they recover from their injuries, Kakashi puts Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura on a strict training regimen to protect Tazuna's family against Zabuza's next attack. But Zabuza has a dangerous new apprentice in Haku. And as the bridge comes closer to completion, our heroes must be willing to kill—or die.