Bleach 3-in-1 vol. 5 is a compilation of Bleach volumes 13, 14 and 15, sold at the reduced price of $14.99. It’s a pretty sweet deal if you’ve never read the early Bleach volumes, have some holes in your collection, or just want buy them for a friend you’ve been trying to get into the series.

The 3-in-1 series are smaller than the VIZ BIGS, and thankfully, much lighter! While I fully appreciate the nice paper stock, full-color pages and extra art included in many of the VIZ BIGs, they’re not exactly portable.

This volume focuses on the Rukia rescue attempt and features some of the best battles in that arc. One of my favorites is the battle between Kenpachi and Ichigo. Mainly, because I LOVE Kenpachi! There’s just something about his spiky character design, wild disposition, and crazy power level that appeals to me. And he carries an adorable (and super powerful) little girl on his shoulder. What’s not to like?! Great art, too! Even though it’s still fairly early in the manga, Kubo Sensei is already a master of drawing sword battles. Great sense of speed, impact, intensity and in this specific battle—lots of blood!

Another great battle this 3-in-1 one covers is the fight between Mayuri and Uryu. Ever since I first laid eyes on Mayuri, I’ve been a fan. Talk about a memorable character design! Plus, he’s a mad scientist! It’s impossible not to crack a smile when he offers his “best possible” terms to study Orihime—“I’ll restrict the daily drug regime to eight doses, and only five hours of biomechanical experiments! You’ll be fed orally! And you’ll be given clothing when you sleep!” The fight itself is full of surprises and does an excellent job of revealing just how powerful Uryu has become. And you’ll get a bit of backstory about the Quincies and their relationship with Soul Reapers.

You’ll also get a peek into the inner workings of the complicated Soul Society. A society bound by honor and strict rules, yet full of colorful, outlandish characters. And there’s quite a bit of training in here, as Ichigo attempts to achieve his bankai.

The Rukia rescue arc will always have a special place in my heart and remains my personal favorite part of the entire series. It’s full of great dramatic moments, which still give me shivers all these years later. And peppered throughout the drama and bloodshed, there’s some genuinely funny moments, as well.

If you’ve never read the early volumes, I recommend these 3-in-1 editions. They’re a great deal, and you can find out what made this series the huge hit it became.

Bleach 3-in-1 vol. 5 is available 05/07/13 from VIZ.com! 

by Urian Brown