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The fifth season of Monogatari series and the second season that wasn't adapted into an anime, explores Araragi's life at university. However, what truly sets "Monster Season" apart is its unique style of detective storytelling. Throughout most of this season, the narrative begins with someone going missing, prompting Araragi and the other characters to embark on investigations. The detective work presented is of a commendable quality, but there is a noticeable problem – the existence of the supernatural often robs the reader of the opportunity to solve the mysteries itself.

Nonetheless, "Shinobumonogatari" and "Yoimonogatari" manage to sustain a high level of suspense, offering compelling narratives. In ... contrast, "Amarimonogatari" and "Ougimonogatari" exhibit kind of lower level. Notably, "Yoimonogatari" deserves a special mention for its poignant cautionary tale, striking emotional chords with readers. "Shinobumonogatari" may pique the interest of those who consider Oshino Shinobu as their favourite character. At the end, "Shinomonogatari" weaves an overarching "big plot" into each chapter and introduces some intriguing plot twists.

In conclusion, as someone who read only unadapted seasons, the level of quality remains high. "Yoimonogatari" might even stand out as one of the best chapters in the series. I wholeheartedly recommend this season, as well as every other season in the Monogatari series, to all viewers.

After finishing watching the anime adaptation of the Monogatari series, I fell in love with this anime and couldn't wait for the adaptation of the new seasons (which may not be adapted). As a result, I started reading (which I'm not a big fan of), mostly in English, which is not my native language, and I've never read such extensive works in it.

Was it worth it? Of course, it was. I've never been as interested in reading anything as I was in the Off-season and Monster season of the Monogatari series.

Unlike the previous parts of the story, I realized that Off-season featured an almost complete ... lack of Araragi in the role of the protagonist. And I want to say that this is a good decision. Seeing my favorite characters who have never appeared in such a large amount on the screen before was a real joy, especially in Nademonogatari, which tells the story of Nadeko and Yotsugi's relationship.

First and foremost, the author's art is the one to thank for this. Nisio Isin's mastery of the art of writing deserves the highest praise. His style is unique and inimitable, making every page of his works unforgettable. His ability to create monologues and dialogues is indescribable. All of his characters have a unique way of speaking that cannot be mistaken for anyone else, even within the pages of a book. Reading Monogatari feels like watching an anime adaptation, but in your head, where every conversation is a true art.

Some may feel that Monogatari had a logical ending with Araragi's graduation from high school, but personally, I have nothing against continuing the story of his life as long as the quality of the story doesn't drop. And while the Off-season barely tells the story of Koyomi's life, I think that's what makes this season even more special. It's as if before diving into his college life, we are allowed to find out what happened to the other characters during his graduation so that their appearances in the future are meaningful.

Besides Nademonogatari, I would also like to mention the important part, "Bon appétit, Acerola," which tells an important part of the life of the best character in fiction, Oshino Shinobu. Don't forget this, please.

In conclusion, I would like to say that the Off-season is a full-fledged sequel (but on MAL for some reason, it is marked as a side story) which is completely suitable for reading after watching the anime because (thanks to Shaft studio) there are no differences in the plot, and watching the anime causes the same unique emotions as reading the original work.