'Death Note' is also a must - read. The story is about a notebook that can kill people just by writing their names in it. The psychological battle between the two main characters, Light and L, is fascinating. You can find free versions of it in some manga reading platforms. And it has a complex plot that keeps you hooked from start to finish.
One great option is 'One Punch Man'. It's a really popular free manga story. It has an interesting concept where the main character can defeat any opponent with just one punch, but there's a lot more to the story in terms of the other characters and the world - building.
'Fullmetal Alchemist' short stories are a must - read too. It delves deeper into the complex alchemy system and the characters' backstories. There are many heart - wrenching and thought - provoking tales within this anime manga world.
If you're starting out, 'Vikramadithyan' stories are quite engaging. They are filled with adventures and moral lessons. 'Kalki' s novels, which can also be considered as long stories, are also great. His works often blend historical events with fictional elements in a very interesting way, and many of his works are available for free in some digital libraries.
For beginners, I'd recommend 'The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde' from Project Gutenberg. It's a classic and relatively short, which makes it easy to get into. Another good one is 'The Gift of the Magi' which can be found on various free story platforms.
For beginners, 'My Hero Academia' is a good option. It has clear and engaging plotlines, along with relatable characters. The art style is also quite appealing.
You could begin with 'Fullmetal Alchemist'. It's got a well-structured plot, deep emotional depth, and explores complex moral and philosophical issues. The art style is also quite appealing.
I would recommend 'A Study in Scarlet'. It's the first Sherlock Holmes story written by Arthur Conan Doyle. It introduces the characters of Holmes and Watson and gives you a great sense of their relationship and how Holmes' deductive reasoning works.
'The Dwarf' by Cho Se - hui is also very good. It delves into themes of human nature and society in a thought - provoking way. It's a story that can make you think deeply about various aspects of life. And it's not too long or complex for someone new to Korean short stories.
I would recommend 'The Time Machine' also by H.G. Wells. It's a short but very impactful story that explores time travel in an interesting way. It can be easily found for free. And then there's 'Flatland: A Romance of Many Dimensions' by Edwin A. Abbott. This unique story about different dimensions is both educational and fascinating.
Another good option is 'Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World'. The web novel is full of mystery, drama, and a very interesting time - loop concept. The relationships between the characters are complex and evolving, and the manga based on it has also attracted a large number of fans.
'Children of the Corn' is also a good choice. It's a well - known short story that has been adapted into a movie. It has a really spooky atmosphere. A couple stumbles upon a strange town full of children with a very disturbing secret. It really showcases King's talent for creating horror in a small - town setting.