Bleach Vol. 60

So many major reveals in one shocking volume, it'll change the way you think about Bleach forever!
By May 07, 2014

 
It took 60 volumes, but we finally get the love story we were all waiting for—one that ends in Hollows and pain in the rain. But the journey is just as important as the destination, so let’s explore Ichigo’s origins.

This volume is all about Isshin and Masaki, Ichigo’s parents. Since the beginning, we knew that Ichigo's mother didn't have a happy ending. However, Kubo does an amazing job portraying her relationship with Ichigo's father in this volume, making it very difficult to accept the sadness to come… Surprisingly, we have Aizen to thank for Isshin and Masaki’s union. A Black Hollow created by Aizen is the reason the two cross paths, as Isshin investigates the appearance of the mysterious Hollow in Karakura Town. We also learn that Ichigo takes after his mom when it comes to helping others.

By exploring Masaki’s character, many loose ends are tied regarding Ichigo's powers. Isshin does a fair job of explaining (to both Ichigo and the reader) how important Masaki is in developing Ichigo’s abilities. We’ve traveled down the same road Ichigo has, from his first encounter with a Hollow to the awakening of his Soul Reaper powers. We’ve witnessed all of his training and the battles he had to overcome to get to where he is today. However, only after learning the origins of Ichigo’s mother and the true reason behind her death are we able to sort the last puzzle piece in the jigsaw of Ichigo’s life. 

As far as blasts from the past go, this volume is a total winner. I loved seeing the short but sweet interactions between Isshin and Masaki. The importance of the past is finally revealed, as we learn how far back the Quincies and Aizen have been a part of Ichigo’s life. We also get a sneak peek at new techniques being developed by Soul Reapers in order to combat the Quincy threat.

Find out the truth behind Ichigo’s Zanpakuto and get ready for a case of the sniffles in this nostalgia filled volume of Bleach. Available here

by Cat Rechsteiner