Light novels have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. Originating from Japan, these novels are known for their unique blend of storytelling making them a great entry point for readers interested in Japanese literature and anime/manga culture. Here is no particular order are 5 light novels for beginners you can start reading today.
“The Irregular at Magic High School” by Tsutomu Sato
Publication run dates: July 2011 – September 2020
The Irregular at Magic High School is a light novel series written by Tsutomu Sato. The light novel takes place in a world where magic exists as part of everyday life. The story follows siblings Tatsuya and Miyuki Shiba as they enroll in the prestigious magical institution First High School. Miyuki and Tatsuya are polar opposites when it comes to their social standing in school. Miyuki is considered a prodigy, whereas Miyuki is looked down upon due to his poor performance on standardized tests. Things slowly begin to change as Tatsuya’s true abilities are revealed.
The Irregular at Magic High School is a great light novel for beginners who enjoy sci-fi and action-packed stories. Its unique take on magic and technology is sure to keep readers engaged.
Fan favorite character: Tatsuya Shiba, because of his cool and calm demeanor and his impressive combat abilities.
Volumes: 32
Copies sold: Over 20 million
Anime adaptation: Yes
Manga adaptation: Yes
Video game: No
“The Devil is a Part-Timer!” by Satoshi Wagahara
Publication run dates: February 2011 – August 2021
“The Devil is a Part-Timer!” is a comedic fantasy light novel series written by Satoshi Wagahara and illustrated by Oniku. The series follows the lord of demons Satan, who is forced to retreat to Earth in a last-ditch effort to preserve his life. Unfortunately for him, he is forced to take on a part-time job at a fast-food restaurant in order to survive. The story follows Satan’s struggles to adjust to human life while dealing with otherworldly threats.
The Devil is a Part-Timer! is a great light novel for beginners who enjoy comedy and fantasy. Its likable characters and comedic tone make it a fun and easy read.
Fan favorite character: Emi Yusa, the hero who defeated Satan in her world. Fans love her strong personality and her complex relationship with Satan.
Volumes: 28
Copies sold: Over 5 million
Anime adaptation: Yes
Manga adaptation: Yes
Video game: Yes
“Classroom of the Elite” by Syohgo Kinugasa
Publication run dates: May 2015 – present
Classroom of the Elite is a light novel series written by Syohgo Kinugasa. The story setting as you might have guessed is an elite high school where students are divided based on their academic abilities. Our protagonist Kiyotaka Ayanokoji ends up with the lowest ranking Class D, based on his test scores. As the story progresses, the seemingly average in every which way Ayanojoki’s past slowly starts to unravel itself, revealing the monster hiding under the surface. Ayanokoji is shown to possess a keen intellect and a talent for manipulation, stopping at nothing to achieve his goals for his class, and above all else himself.
Classroom of the Elite is a great light novel for beginners who enjoy mystery and drama. Its well-developed characters and intriguing storyline make it a captivating read.
Fan favorite character: Suzune Horikita, a serious and intelligent student who initially dislikes Ayanokoji but later becomes his friend.
Volumes: 16
Copies sold: Over 1.5 million
Anime adaptation: Yes
Manga adaptation: Yes
Video game: No
“Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash” by Ao Jyumonji
Publication run dates: June 2013 – Present
Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash is a light novel series written by Ao Jyumonji. The light novel follows a group of teenagers who wake up in a strange world with no memories of their past lives. They find themselves in the medieval city of Alterna. Alterna largely runs with an intricate guild system, hosting many adventurers. Left with little choice, the group decides to become adventurers in order to earn money and survive in this new world. The story is primarily focused on the group’s struggles to survive and adapt to their new lives. The group finds the emotional toll of being stranded in an unfamiliar world to be equally as challenging as the monsters themselves.
Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash is a great light novel for beginners who enjoy fantasy and adventure stories. Its unique world-building and realistic characters make it an engaging and immersive read.
Fan favorite character: Haruhiro, the protagonist and leader of the group, is the fan favorite for his relatable and realistic character arc. Fans appreciate his growth and development throughout the story.
Volumes: 19
Copies sold: No official sales figures available
Anime adaptation: Yes
Manga adaptation: Yes
Video game: Yes
“That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime” by Fuse
Publication run dates: May 2014 – present
“That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime” is a popular Japanese light novel series that has gained a significant following for its unique take on the isekai genre. The story begins with a 37-year-old man named Satoru Mikami, who is killed in a random act of violence and in his next life is reincarnated as a weak slime monster. With his new form, Satoru discovers that he has unique abilities that allow him to absorb and mimic other creatures’ abilities. His powers also include the ability as well as communicate with other beings. Join Satoru as he explores this new world and makes friends with various creatures, looking to build his own community while gaining power and influence along the way.
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime is a great light novel for beginners who enjoy fantasy and comedy. Its unique premise and likable characters make it a fun and enjoyable read.
Fan-favorite Character: Rimuru Tempest, the main character, is a fan-favorite for his kind-hearted nature, a willingness to help others, and of course in true isekai fashion his ever-expanding list of unique abilities. He also has a strong sense of justice and will do anything to protect his friends makes many fans want to root for him.
Volumes: 20
Copies sold: Over 40 million
Anime adaptation: Yes
Manga adaptation: Yes
Video game: Yes
In conclusion, these five light novels for beginners are great options for those who want to explore the world of Japanese light novels.
