The Monogatari series is an engaging collection of Japanese light novels written by Nisio Isin. If you’re looking to dive into the mysterious supernatural world revolving around Koyomi Araragi, here are some guidelines on how to approach reading the series.
The Monogatari Seasons
The creator, Nisio Isin, categorized his novels into various “seasons.” The First Season typically consists of the following novels:
- Bakemonogatari Volume 1
- Bakemonogatari Volume 2
- Kizumonogatari
- Nisemonogatari Volume 1
- Nisemonogatari Volume 2
- Nekomonogatari (Black)
It is generally recommended to read them in the order listed above. By adhering to this sequence, you will follow the storyline as initially intended by the author.
Additional Novels
The series spans beyond the First Season with many more novels. Here is the continuation of the Monogatari series in chronological order:
- Nekomonogatari (Shiro)
- Kabukimonogatari
- Hanamonogatari
- Otorimonogatari
- Onimonogatari
- Koimonogatari
- Tsukimonogatari
- Koyomimonogatari
- Owarimonogatari Volumes 1-3
- Zoku Owarimonogatari
- Orokamonogatari
- Wazamonogatari
- Nademonogatari
- Musubimonogatari
- Shinobumonogatari
- Yoimonogatari
- Amarimonogatari
- Ōgimonogatari
- Shinomonogatari Volumes 1 and 2
Note on Airing Order Vs Novel order
In some cases, the anime adaptation did not air in the same sequence as the novel counterpart due to production delays and other reasons. However, for the best experience, it’s better to stick to the novel order to fully understand the purposeful narrative and the mysteries therein, as intended by the author.
Considerations
There are a few considerations to keep mind while reading the series:
- There’s a manga adaptation too, which diverts from the light novels in terms of plot.
- The audiobook versions of some novels are available, narrated by voice actors from the anime adaptation.
- There are several short stories and side materials related to the Monogatari series, which you may explore to further enrich the Monogatari universe experience.
Conclusions
To enjoy the depth of Nisio Isin’s work, it is crucial to read them in chronological order. With themes ranging from the supernatural to deep introspection, the Monogatari series is an intriguing and immersive experience, provided you follow the intended reading sequence.
Therefore, buckle up and prepare for a riveting journey through the vast and intricate world of Monogatari.
Happy reading!