Death Note stands as the greatest manga (and anime) I've ever read. Death Note is often recommended as a great introduction to manga - and I completely agree. It was the first manga I ever read, and I will never look back. So, without further ado, let's jump in to my more detailed thoughts on the series.

The Premise (don't worry, no spoilers):

A mysterious notebook falls from the sky, granting its possessor the power to kill anyone by simply writing their name while envisioning their face - and holy potato, this series takes this simple concept and elevates it to the next level.

A Common Misunderstanding

Now, let me address my take on what I beleive is a common misunderstanding: _Death Note _isn't about death and killing (to an extent) - in fact, for a manga titled "Death Note", majority of the series doesn't show people dying. Instead, it questions the term "justice" and follows the relationship between Light, the notebook's owner, and L, the world's greatest detective. This leads to betrayal, mind bending plot twists and Sherlock Homes-esc characters constantly outsmarting each other.

#The Game of Cat-And-Mouse
The cat-and-mouse game between Light and L forms the core of the entire story, which is why I find it so disappointing that the series went downhill after the core of the story fell apart (for obvious reasons I can't say without spoilers). L is willing to search pixel by pixel through a terabyte of data (Death Note Musical Reference) to find the true identity of Kira —the name associated with Light's killings deeds. Anticipating anticipating each other's actions, and constantly taunting eachother wth what they've learned. It's the perfect example of, "I knew you would do this, so I did this! ".

#The Fabulously Written Plot
The entire plot is well thought out, and every idea shown in the series feels like a genius idea that I, an average person, am being let in on. From the very moment Light receives the notebook, it is clear that he is very intelligent. From securing the notebook, to creating advanced security techniques and decoys in his room, to taking a chip AND EATING IT (whilst continuing to remain completely expressionless, continue to kill criminals, and complete his homework all at once) - it just is pure genius. Light slowly veers away from his original plan, beginning to focus on stopping L from discovering his true identity, and often taunting him. This series is shown especially well in the final moments of the anime; showcasing the downfall of a promising young student as we flash back and forth from Light before and after the notebook fell into his possession. Light is shown to be kind, attractive, clever, funny... and yet one notebook sets him on a collision course, focusing on becoming the god of the new world.

#My Thoughts On L
L also obtains satisfaction from taunting Light, yet it's worth noting that L's character possesses an inherent likability that sets him apart from Light on multiple fronts. His humor, charisma, intellect, and his belief in a more traditional form of justice, in combination are what makes L my favourite character of all time. Especially his quick and clever comebacks to reasonable questions, comments and statements. Like when Misa (Light's fiance and partner in crime) says, "I can't imagine a world without Light", and L remarks, "Yes, that would be dark". L even admits that he will happily lie and put others in danger to get his way. L, just like Light, likes to win.

#Should You Read Death Note?
So if you haven't read Death Note, please: read it. Right now. There is no time to waste.
I seriously recommend this to both newcomers eager to dip their toes into manga without committing to a thousand-chapter series (not mentioning any names); and seasoned manga enthusiasts alike.Trust me, it's worth it. And while you do that, I will leave my favourite quote from L... about monsters.

There are many types of monsters in this world. Monsters who cause trouble without showing themselves, monsters who abduct children, monsters who devour dreams... and monsters that always tell lies.
‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ Lying monsters are a real nuisance: They pose as humans even though they have no understanding of the human heart; they eat even though they've never experienced hunger; they study even though they have no interest in academics; they seek friendship even though they do not know how to love.
‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ If I were to encounter such monsters, I would likely be eaten by them... because in truth, I am that monster.