The Irregular at Magic High School, Vol. 5 (light novel): Summer Vacation Arc +1

(Disclaimer: So let me first say that, yes I am a fan of this series and thus I've read the fan translations of the books through #14 and watched the anime several times.)This book picks up where the fourth left off at and wraps up some loose ends before the next arc (Yokohama Disturbance aka Theses Competition). In fact the stories included in this book weren't part of the anime (I believe they were going to be released as OVAs at some point), so if you're reading this series as how it follows the anime, this book happens between episodes 18 and 19. Most of the stories in this book would be in other animes entire filler episodes (think beach, hot springs, and amusement park episodes) which makes the book a low point between the second and third arcs. Here's an outline of each story (with minor spoilers mind you);1. Summer Vacation - A beach trip with the main cast where they go to visit Shizuku's parents' vacation home. In this story not much happens outside the norm beach episode except that the other characters see some of Tatsuya's physical scars and Honoka's feelings towards Tatsuya are progressed.2.The Honor Student's Extracurricular Lesson - This story follows Hattori as he is still wrestling with the idea of Blooms vs Weeds and his run in with a mysterious young lady who is being pursed by shady government officials.3. Amelia in Wonderland - Amelia aka "Eimi" is the main star in this story which takes place at an amusement park with a few other side characters.4. Friendship, Trust, and Lolicon Suspicions - We touch base with Masaki Ichijou and Kichijouji aka "Prince George" to see how they're doing after the Nine Schools Competition. Several other members of the Ichijou family are introduced here as Masaki and Kichijouji hang out after school.5. Memories of Summer - Two tales told as one, both involving Tatsuya and Miyuki in extraordinary circumstances.6. The Student Council Election and the Queen - This final story covers the selection process for the new student council president and the drama that unfolds around that event.All in all the fifth book feels short due to it's varying stories even though it is 254 pages in length but it is well written and as outlined above, it pays homage to most of the characters and their various exploits and adventures during the summer.

I have been a fan of "The Irregular of Magic High School" since I read the Light Novels fan translated and then saw the anime! (Shameless plug: The "Honor Student of Magic High School" is from Miyuki's and friends' point of view and adds another wonderful insight to this story!) Although others might assert these are nothing more than "fillers" I have to disagree. As an artist will add a background to a picture they are painting, these stories also add to the background or fill a character an add more depth to them. In the first story, Summer Vacation, we find out just how devious Shizuku and Honoka are in "setting up" this island retreat. The other stories are reminding us not to forget the other characters like Shun Morisaki and his abilities; the "Crimson Prince" and "Cardinal George" with their hopes, dreams, ("love sickness" too) as well as their deep binding relationship and respect they have for each other. Then there is also the real possibility of their friendship becoming more with Masaki's sister claiming George as her's now and in the future! Eimi has a wonderful time with a senpai Tomitsuka. They become fast friends bound by mutual "secrets". The next story returns to our two main characters with their reminiscing over two times they were able to spend time together. The last story continues the arc and with Mayumi keeping her promise to change the regulation of only "Course 1" students being able to serve on the Student Counsel. The how and why of the Course 1 and 2 students discrimination was first established and the reason for the control of the Student Election being kept in the Student Counsel's control. The story of Azusa becoming the Student Counsel President I think adds so much to the "World" of "The Irregular of Magic High School". The author in his first endeavor in the genre of Light Novels skillfully has used his brush to paint this Magical World. I will continue to support Tsutomu Sato and look expectantly for more from his palette.

Several stories that introduce and developed some characters that had an appearance in previous volumes. The author looks deeper in the characters and their relations, bringing to this series a solid cast of characters with great personalities. Some changes in the story that for sure will be reflected in future volumes. A solid book, easy to read and really enjoyable.

I personally found this volume a little less intriguing compared to others but that's just because this volume has side stories covering some of the characters that aren't always on the forefront. (And personally I don't really care about the side characters)It does include some important story development though and it's definitely worth a read. Just maybe, skip the side story chapters if that really isn't your thing.

For the book itself: Received in perfect condition. The book quality is decent.For the contents: Enjoyable read. I expect that anyone looking into Vol. 5 already knows the general narrative.

I never get tired of this series. Plus it gave more insight on several of the minor and major characters. Can't wait for the Yokohama disturbance arc this December.

Loved the anime, an really you get a whole new perspective reading the book. Its a must read for fans.

Great series looking forward to seeing the next one

The cover normally gives a good idea of what to come, but this was purely a nice picture. This novel was more of a set of side stories taking place with a few key points. Honoka really shines in this one.

Nice little book

La verdad soy un gran fan de la historia, por lo que es indispensable tener el producto en mano, una historia muy buena.

I would give it a five star but what really makes it less than that is how characters introduce themselves and some small other things like Gram Demolition spell is written as program demolition which makes it sound something like a computer program

Wäre wie beschrieben, schnelle Lieferung.