The "Naruto: True Legend of Itachi" novel will tell the complete backstory of Itachi Uchiha, the mysterious ninja and older brother to Sasuke Uchiha. The first part will be released on Sept. 4 but according to a report from Shueisha via AnimeNewsNetwork, the second volume won't be coming out until October with no specific date attached to it yet.
The novel is meant to be a single piece but was split in half in order to give fans something to read until the latter portion is complete. Part one is titled "Glory Volume" while the second one is officially titled the "Dark Knight Volume."
In the "Naruto" manga and anime series, Itachi was presented as a major antagonist who killed his whole family except for his little brother Sasuke. However, it was later revealed that he did all of these in order to help preserve his clan and to see the dream of an Uchiha become one of the Hokage.
While the first volume will focus on the childhood of Itachi and his first encounter with Shisui, the second volume will focus on his take on the dark path as an Anbu.
The first novel is already listed on Amazon with an in-depth synopsis posted, minus the second novel. This is likely to change within the next month as the second volume prepares for its official launch.
Following the launch of the "Dark Knight Volume" is the release of the "True Legend of Sasuke" novels. These will focus on Sasuke's perspective, telling his story from childhood to adulthood. It will cover the death of his family, key plot points surrounding his journey with Naruto and Sakura, and his eventual turn to the dark side and his redemption.
The novels will be the first installments in a long line of "Naruto Shinden" or "Naruto: True Legends" novel series. No official announcements have been made regarding who the next set of "True Legends" novels will focus on.
