Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Because Janitor-san Is Not a Hero
"Because Janitor-san Is Not a Hero" is a web novel that presents a unique take on the isekai genre, but it's a bit of a bumpy ride. I found myself intrigued by the premise, but also wrestling with some significant issues in the execution.
First Impressions
The initial chapters are rough, I won't lie. The writing style felt disjointed, with explanations popping up randomly and timelines blurring together. It was definitely a challenge to get my bearings and understand what was going on. Several readers have pointed out that the translation quality early on contributed to this confusion, and I have to agree. It felt like piecing together a puzzle with missing pieces.
What Works Well
Despite the rocky start, I found aspects of the story compelling. The protagonist, Kurando, is a mature character who deals with his circumstances in a surprisingly realistic way. He's not your typical naive hero; he understands his weaknesses and makes choices based on a grounded sense of self-preservation. I appreciated his realistic approach to life and his grudges. The time progression felt natural. It wasn't one of those stories where characters suddenly become overpowered after a few months of training. The world-building, while perhaps not the most original, has a certain gritty charm that fits the tone of the story. I also enjoyed the relationships Kurando develops and how they change him.
Areas of Concern
The writing style is a significant hurdle. Even as the story progresses, the author sometimes delves into stream-of-consciousness writing, which can be confusing. The "Hero" character, a naive good-guy, didn't quite fit with the world's tone. The romance was also a little strange, with a significant age gap that made me uncomfortable.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers might be sensitive to plot details, so be warned. The story involves a group being summoned to another world. Kurando, the janitor, has a blessing stolen from him by the "Hero." This sets the stage for his journey, but the initial theft and the goddess's reaction to it are a point of contention for some.
Final Verdict
"Because Janitor-san Is Not a Hero" is a flawed but ultimately interesting read. The slow start and the writing style might turn some readers off, but if you can persevere, you'll find a story with a unique protagonist and a compelling world. It's not a masterpiece, but it has enough originality and emotional depth to make it worth a try, especially if you're looking for an isekai story that deviates from the norm. I'd give it a tentative 3/5.
