A light novel is a style of written fiction that originated in Japan, typically aimed at young adults. These novels are characterized by their engaging storytelling, often featuring illustrations, particularly in the manga style, which help to enhance the reading experience. Light novels usually have a word count similar to that of a novella, making them accessible and easy to read. Light novels often explore various genres, including fantasy, romance, and science fiction. They are frequently serialized, meaning they are published in parts over time, and many have been adapted into other media, such as anime and manga. Popular series like Sword Art Online and No Game No Life have contributed to the growing popularity of light novels worldwide.