Book Review: How I, a Normal High School Student, Went to Royal Academy and Avoided Being Trapped in Hiatus Vol. 1: A LitRPG Adventure by Kal Griffith
As someone who has often daydreamed about being whisked away to fantastical worlds—where I could trade my high school locker for a castle and math homework for swordplay—I was instantly drawn to How I, a Normal High School Student, Went to Royal Academy and Avoided Being Trapped in Hiatus. With a title as whimsical as that by Kal Griffith, I became giddy to see how one character’s journey could intertwine the mundane and the magical in a delightfully self-aware narrative.
At its core, this book is a testament to second chances and the power of storytelling. After a tragic accident, our hero, Samson, is pulled back into the limelight of his favorite light novel series, My Royal Academia, under the watchful eye of Aki, the Grim Reaper in a tracksuit. This quirky characterization set the tone for what turned out to be an unpredictable adventure. As I delved deeper into Samson’s story, it became clear that his quest to save the narrative from a dreaded hiatus mirrors many of our struggles: feeling lost, yearning for purpose, and navigating complex relationships—all wrapped up in a vibrant academy setting layered with intrigue and light-hearted humor.
What truly amazes me about this book is how Griffith blends a relatable slice-of-life with fantastical elements and gentle satire. The characters—Princess Victoria Somerset, Prince Nathaniel Somerset, and the wise Mr. Stephen Ebenezer—aren’t just your typical princes and princesses; they are endearing and complex, each with their own quirks and motivations. Recognizing their flaws made me empathize more deeply with their journey. I found myself chuckling at the description of Prince Nathaniel as “charismatic and confident”—oh, how I could feel the tension between him and Samson!
The writing style stands out as especially engaging. Griffith balances humor with a sense of urgency, and I appreciated the author’s ability to avoid overcomplicated stat mechanics, focusing instead on character development and relationships. The light, cheeky tone invites readers to enjoy the silliness of it all while still rooting for Samson’s triumphs and avoiding his downfalls. At times, I felt like I was peeking behind the curtain of a webnovel, especially with the author notes sprinkled throughout. These only added to the fun, giving me a sense of how deeply Griffith is invested in his characters and story.
One standout moment for me was when Samson reflects on the stakes of not just the plot but also his personal story. It evoked a feeling of connection; it made me consider the narratives we all build in our lives, often thwarted by the most mundane of hiccups. It’s not just a quest for adventure—it’s a search for meaning, a theme that resonates with both fantasy fans and those just looking for a light-hearted escape.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend How I, a Normal High School Student, Went to Royal Academy and Avoided Being Trapped in Hiatus to readers who enjoy inventiveness, charm, and heartwarming characters. It’s a cozy read perfect for fans of LitRPG and slice-of-life narratives alike. If you’re on the lookout for laughter, camaraderie, and a touch of adventure, this book will surely make a delightful addition to your shelf. I certainly find myself eager for the next volume—after all, who wouldn’t want to jump back into a world where magic, risk, and a funny grim reaper await?