Translator's Review!
Hello everyone, Boundless_Beacon here! ✨ Complete transparency: I'm the translator for the remarkable Young Master, Please Become Hokage!, and today I'm offering my personal assessment of it. Think of this as an impassioned (and possibly slightly biased 😉) insider's viewpoint.
Now, here's an exceptionally cool element: the protagonist, Sarutobi Ryo, isn't just some original character. He's a transmigrated soul residing in the body of Hiruzen's other son – the one known in canon primarily as a background Anbu member (who eventually fathered Konohamaru)! 🤯
This narrative bestows a full identity upon that previously unnamed figure and thrusts him into the chaos of the Second Shinobi World War, where modern sensibilities collide with ninja realities.
Given that I translate this work, I've naturally read ahead for Patreon chapters (currently up to Chapter 111, corresponding to Volume 2, Chapter 53), so consider this an insider's glimpse with added context 😉. I'm genuinely thrilled to articulate why I enjoy translating this story! Let's jump in! 🎉
Writing Quality:
The original author excels at setting the stage, particularly in early chapters depicting the stark conditions of the Second Shinobi World War. The pacing generally feels well-managed, transitioning effectively between intense battlefield scenarios, quieter character moments, and political machinations within Konoha.
Descriptions are typically robust, especially during combat, rendering the action easy to visualize. The dialogue adeptly conveys character personalities and delves into the central theme of the "Will of Fire" from multiple angles.
Ryo's internal reflections are a standout feature, providing a unique critique of the Naruto world, made more poignant by his specific canon origins. At times, exposition might feel somewhat dense, or certain plot threads may unfold more slowly than others, but overall, it's compelling material!
Good: 8/10 (Potent atmosphere, well-paced action sequences, thoughtful thematic exploration via dialogue and internal monologue.)
Bad: 7/10 (Occasional slower pacing during non-action segments, some exposition can resemble info dumps.)
Translation Quality:
Alright, taking a moment... reviewing one's own translation always feels a bit strange! 😅 My primary aim with Young Master, Please Become Hokage! is to ensure it reads fluidly in English while accurately capturing the original author's tone and Ryo's distinct voice – that blend of world-weariness, modern perspective, and burgeoning resolve.
Translating ninja-specific terminology and the philosophical discussions surrounding the Will of Fire certainly poses difficulties! I strive for consistency and readability, concentrating on making dialogue feel authentic and descriptions vivid.
It's undoubtedly imperfect (as all translations are?), and occasionally finding the precise word feels like tracking a elusive ninja through mist 😅, but I invest significant care and effort because I genuinely cherish this story and wish for others to appreciate it too!
Specifically, conveying Ryo's internal thoughts, informed by his unique position in the canon timeline, adds another rewarding layer to the translation process.
Good: 8/10 (Focus on readability and flow, aiming to capture the MC's unique voice and the narrative's atmosphere.)
Bad: 7/10 (Ninja terminology can be challenging, occasional awkward phrasing might occur, ongoing struggle for perfect nuance!)
Character Development:
Through Chapter 111 (V2 Ch 53), Sarutobi Ryo is unequivocally the main attraction. Awareness of his specific background imbues his journey with a fascinating dimension. His evolution from a somewhat jaded transmigrator focused on survival to someone proactively seeking to reform the system, particularly regarding Konoha's use of child soldiers, feels authentic and earned.
He isn't a stereotypical overpowered MC; he possesses his clan's innate abilities (Sarutobi strength and ninjutsu aptitude) but relies on diligence and critical thinking. His bonds with his teammates – the steadfast (and slightly intense!) Yamanaka Hui and the reserved, burdened Hyuga Ruri – form a core motivation for protecting others.
Witnessing canon figures like a youthful Minato, a still-lauded Hatake Sakumo, and the Konoha elders through the perspective of this previously undefined Sarutobi son offers novel insights.
Good: 9/10 (Compelling MC arc amplified by his unique canon identity, interesting growth in key relationships, distinctive takes on canon characters based on MC's interactions.)
Bad: 7/10 (Some supporting characters might seem less developed within the initial 111 chapters; focus remains heavily on Ryo.)
World Building:
The fic utilizes the established Naruto universe, specifically Konoha during and immediately following the Second Shinobi World War, as its bedrock. It performs a commendable job portraying the era's severity and the village's political atmosphere.
Rather than drastically altering the world's geography, it explores existing structures more deeply – the Hokage hierarchy, the elders' influence, the Anbu and the problematic interpretations of the Will of Fire.
The 'system' bestowed upon Ryo is integrated quite naturally as a facilitator for his growth and a source of meta-information, without entirely supplanting the established world mechanics (at least within the reviewed scope up to Ch 111/V2 Ch 53).
Good: 8/10 (Effectively leverages the canon setting and timeline, critically examines existing political/social structures, integrates the 'system' reasonably well.)
Bad: 6/10 (Relies significantly on established canon; original world-building contributions are minimal in the reviewed portion.)
Fanfic Improvements from Canon (Things I Like!):
This is where the fic truly distinguishes itself for me! ✨ The author bravely critiques the established Konoha system and the Will of Fire concept. Ryo's transmigrator viewpoint enables a fresh, often critical examination of elements many fans may have questioned. Here are aspects I particularly admire regarding its deviations or expansions on canon (up to Ch 111/V2 Ch 53):
1. Crafting a backstory and personality for a previously anonymous Anbu figure, Hiruzen's other son! Exploring this blank slate is fantastic.
2. The candid depiction of the darker aspects of Konoha's leadership and their political maneuvering, involving figures like Hiruzen and the elders.
3. Ryo's commitment to embodying a genuine Will of Fire centered on safeguarding comrades, contrasting with the often utilitarian version observed later in canon.
4. Encountering characters like Hatake Sakumo before his canon downfall, and exploring his dynamic with Ryo and the pressures he endures.
5. The focus on Yamanaka and Hyuga teammates, lending depth to characters frequently confined to the background.
Good: 9/10 (Offers insightful critique, adds substance to overlooked characters/periods, compelling 'what if' scenario, brilliantly fleshes out a minor canon character.)
Bad: 6/10 (Alterations might irk canon purists, some deviations utilize common fanfic tropes like transmigration + system.)
Pros (Overall Strengths - What Really Shines! ✨):
Summarizing the absolute best parts! This fic captivates with its premise—particularly the MC's specific identity—and maintains that hold. The MC isn't merely inserted; he possesses history, connections, and a unique viewpoint that meaningfully impacts the narrative.
1. Unique Protagonist Premise: Delving into the life of a canon blank slate, Hiruzen's eldest son, as a transmigrator is an exceptional hook!
2. Engaging Character Arc: Ryo is reflective, competent, and his internal struggles regarding the ninja world are relatable.
3. Strong Thematic Exploration: It deeply probes the 'Will of Fire,' challenging its application within canon Konoha.
4. Interesting Canon Interactions: Observing familiar characters through Ryo's lens and watching him navigate the political terrain is captivating.
5. Solid Action & Pacing: The initial war chapters and subsequent missions (like the Land of Whirlpools arc) feature well-executed action sequences.
Good: 9/10 (Robust core elements effectively realize the premise's potential.)
Bad: 5/10 (The specific fusion of transmigration, system, and canon critique might not suit every reader, but holds broad appeal for the Naruto fanfic audience.)
Cons (My Tiny Nitpicks - Keeping it Real! 😉):
No story is flawless, naturally! And as the translator, I likely notice minuscule details more acutely! These are predominantly minor points, not significant detractors from the enjoyment (for me, at least!).
1. System Familiarity: Though integrated well, the 'system' itself might feel somewhat conventional if you've consumed numerous transmigration fics. It fulfills its role but isn't revolutionary (within the reviewed scope).
2. Occasional Pacing Lulls: At times, the transitions between action-heavy segments and more political/character-focused chapters can feel slightly uneven.
3. MC's Knowledge: Ryo occasionally seems to possess precise foreknowledge guiding his actions or words, which can sometimes diminish tension, although the author typically manages this adeptly.
Good: 8/10 (The drawbacks are relatively minor and don't substantially detract from the overall quality within the reviewed chapters.)
Bad: 6/10 (The system element could be a turn-off for some, pacing could be refined in certain areas.)
Overall Feel:
Reading Young Master, Please Become Hokage! is akin to discovering the Naruto world through a more critical, mature perspective, heightened by knowing the MC's unique position within the canon timeline. It's stimulating, occasionally tense, and frequently prompts reflection.
You find yourself supporting Ryo as he contends with his ideals within a world founded on sacrifice and dubious morality. It captures the harshness of the ninja world while simultaneously offering a spark of hope for change through the protagonist's endeavors.
If you favor Naruto fanfiction that challenges the established order, stars a capable and thoughtful protagonist who earns his strength, and investigates the intricacies of Konoha's system and the Will of Fire via a distinctive MC identity, you will likely greatly appreciate this! It's superb for readers intrigued by unexplored territories within the canon universe.
Good: 9/10 (Highly engaging, provides a satisfying blend of action, character depth, and thematic exploration, unique MC identity.)
Bad: 5/10 (Might not appeal to those seeking pure power fantasy or readers who dislike critiques of canon material.)
Conclusion:
Honestly, I wouldn't invest my time translating Young Master, Please Become Hokage! if I didn't hold a genuine affection for it! ❤️ Exploring the Naruto universe through the eyes of Hiruzen's eldest son, witnessing his struggle with past-life principles as he endeavors to redefine the Will of Fire amid Konoha's political landscape, is simply brilliant.
It introduces such a cool, unique dimension to the familiar setting. If you're in search of a Naruto fic that is intelligent, action-filled, and provides a novel perspective on canon by developing a previously neglected character, you absolutely must investigate this one. Immerse yourself and experience Konoha through Ryo's eyes! 😊👍
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P.S. If you find enjoyment in this translation (or my efforts on other novels like Naruto Paradise: An Evil Uchiha's Rise and One Piece: I'm Destined to Be the Son-in-Law King!), and perhaps wish to support my late-night translation endeavors with virtual coffee ☕, or even gain early access to chapters 😉, please feel free to visit my Patreon page! There's absolutely no obligation, but any support greatly assists in keeping these stories flowing! ❤️
-> patreon.com/Boundless_Beacon
Keep exploring, keep reading, and stay boundless! ✨ Beacon out!