Author: Satoshi Wagahara
Title: The Devil Is a Part-Timer! (Volume 1)
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Comedy
Publication Date:April 21, 2015 (English) February 10, 2011 (Japanese)
Number of Pages:240
Geographic Setting: Tokyo, Japan
Time period: Present Day
Series: The Devil Is a Part-Timer! Series
Plot Summary: The Devil Is a Part-Timer! begins in the fantasy land of Ente Isla, where angels and the church are at war with the Devil and his legions of demons. In a climactic battle, the Devil and his top general are banished to another realm: Earth. Trapped in Tokyo without his powers, the Devil seeks to find a way home. However, this is not as easy, and bills need paid. Under the guise of Sadao Maou, the Devil finds work at "MgRonald's", where he strives to climb the corporate ladder to regain the power he once had. Through various hilarious and strange adventures including magic, knights, and hamburgers, the Devil balances his new life on Earth with his desire to return to his kingdom.
Appeal: The Devil Is a Part-Timer! is ludicrous, unique, and incredibly strange, which can be a very enjoyable experience for many. The story hinges on the absurd, while including some aspects of fantasy and adventure. Fans of anime and manga may appreciate the cultural references and setting of the story as well.
Three terms that describe this book: Ridiculous, Hilarious, and Fun
Similar authors and works:
The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya by Nagaru Tanigawa
Another comedic young adult novel series, the Haruhi Suzumiya series of books features a setting in modern Japan, featuring characters with special powers living secret lives as normal people. This series also has zany comedy, but with less focus on action, and more focus on mystery.
Kizumonogatari: Wound Tale by Nisioisin
While still technically a young adult book, Kizumonogatari is a more mature story, with a more serious story about mystical characters in Japan. Vampires, ghosts, and spirits collide in a serious series that focuses on action, mystery, puzzles, and word play.
Sword Art Online by Reki Kawahara
This is a predominantly action-oriented series that takes place in a fantasy realm. If you like the fantasy elements of The Devil Is a Part-Timer!, this is worth reading. The characters are trapped in a fantasy multiplayer online game, where the villain has prevented them from logging out.
Great annotation! Did you find that the appeals were different being a manga? Full points!
ReplyDeleteThis was actually the novel version of the story. While there is a manga adaptation, the novel series is the original, so I figured that it would be best to read it as originally intended. For some reason, novelist does not have the novel version in their database, they only have the manga version. Goodreads does have both though.
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