A review by theautumnalreader
Bleach, Vol. 10 by Tite Kubo

adventurous fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No

4.5

Spoiler

Overall: Seeing the beginning of Ichigo's rescue mission to save Rukia is really compelling. The foil between Ganju and Ichigo as they aproach confrontation with those that may be stronger is engaging and so telling of their differences. Ichigo's refusal to budge where Ganju flees really showcases their fighting styles and I was intruged by who they paired with. 

Notes:
- Watching Ganju resolve to learn about soul reapers despite his older brother's death and being willing to work with Ichigo showed such growth! I felt like his lackies by thinking he'd grown!
- Seeing Ganju and Yumichika quarrel above the old execution pit adds dimension to the depth of the soul society. Yumichika comments how it's an "outdated" and "ugly" practice where old hollows were caught and criminals were sent down to fight to the death as a spectacle while Ganju mentions that it's disgusting and twisted. Reading this, I'm wondering how different the soul society was and if it's now considered progressive (what with Rukia's execution, Jidanbo's mutilation, and the abuse of bodies by research and development) what does that even mean? 
- It was mentioned by Tatsuki in a previous volume, Orihime is like a bloodhound in identifying Ichigo because she always can find and identify his presence. I thought the scenes with the pair were compelling as they were just out of reach of one another once the canon ball broke. 
- Watching the dynamics of the captains, particularly Aizen and Ichimaru, was fascinating as it seemed purposeful for Aizen to tell us, and Captain Histugaya, that Gin wouldn't get away. What is it that Aizen knows or doesn't know?
- Uryu and Orihime's relationship is interesting to me as he seems far less prickly to her than anyone else. I'm wondering how they will progress as a duo in the soul society. 
- Watching Ichigo and Ikkaku's fight was compelling as his growth as a character and fighter really shined, but his base of empathy when encouraging Ikkaku to retreat shows the best of him is still whole and resonant. 

Questions: 
- Who was the initial intruder alert? It appeared to go off the day before Ichigo's group reached the barrier via the cannon.
- What is Yoruichi doing since they entered alone and said it might "be more convenient?"
- Why does Ikkaku have so much respect for Kisuke Urahara? Why does this change how he fights Ichigo?