Here are some recommendations for new Japanese light novels:
1. The Dragon King's Work: This was a light novel about the professional Go world and the group of related characters. It had several rather interesting sub-volumes, and the language was simple and easy to read, making it suitable for reading in one breath.
2. "Puberty Idiots Don't Dream of Bunny Girls" was a light novel about the relationship troubles and growth of young girls. Its writing style was elegant and clear, and the story had depth.
3. The Witch's Journey was a light novel about a mage, a strong man, and a princess. It had inexplicable, funny encounters and beautiful daily lives.
4. [Reincarnation Without a Job ~ Show Your True Skills When You Arrive in the Otherworld ~] This was a light novel about a jobless virgin who started anew in the Otherworld. It showed the protagonist's experience of showing his true abilities in the world of swords and magic.
5. [The Hero of Shield's List of Names]: This was a light novel about the growth story of a Hero of Shield.
These recommendations were suitable for beginners to read Japanese light novels. They had different storylines and styles, allowing readers to enjoy different experiences while reading.
One must - read Japanese light novel is 'Sword Art Online'. It's popular for its immersive virtual reality world concept. The story follows Kirito as he battles in a deadly VRMMORPG. Another great one is 'KonoSuba'. It's a hilarious take on the isekai genre, with its wacky characters like Kazuma and Aqua. And 'Re:Zero' is also a must - read. It has a unique premise of the main character, Subaru, dying and restarting from a save point, which creates a lot of intense and emotional storylines.
You can often find Japanese light novels at local bookstores that have a section for imported books. Some large chain bookstores like Barnes & Noble might carry a selection. Another option is to check online. Amazon has a wide range of Japanese light novels, both in physical and e - book formats. There are also specialized anime and manga stores that might stock light novels.
One must - read Japanese novel is 'Norwegian Wood' by Haruki Murakami. It's a coming - of - age story filled with love, loss, and self - discovery. The vivid descriptions of the characters' emotions and the melancholic atmosphere make it a classic. Another great one is 'The Tale of Genji' which is considered the world's first novel. It offers a detailed look into the Heian period's court life, with complex characters and intricate relationships.
Another great one is 'Death Note'. It tells the story of a high - school student, Light Yagami, who finds a supernatural notebook that can kill anyone whose name is written in it. The cat - and - mouse game between Light and the detective L is extremely thrilling, and the moral and ethical dilemmas presented make it a thought - provoking read. The art is also quite distinct and helps in creating a dark and suspenseful atmosphere.
One of the well - known Japanese classics novels is 'The Tale of Genji'. It is often considered the world's first novel. Another is 'Natsume Soseki's Kokoro', which delves deep into human relationships and the complexity of the human heart. Also, 'Rashomon' by Akutagawa Ryunosuke is famous for its exploration of different perspectives on truth.
One of the must-reads is 'Death Note'. It has a captivating plot and unique characters. The story is full of twists and keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Well, one place to start is BookWalker.jp. They have a wide range of Japanese light novels. Also, check out honto.jp. Sometimes, you might find good reads on smaller indie websites that focus on specific genres of light novels.