A light novel is a type of Japanese novel that is written to cater to a younger audience. These novels are usually short and easy to read, with a focus on entertaining stories and relatable characters. Some synonyms for the term "light novel" include "young adult novel," "teen fiction," or "novella." These terms are used to describe books that are aimed at the same age group as light novels. However, the term "light novel" has a specific cultural context and refers to a unique type of storytelling. It is commonly associated with anime and manga adaptations, which have further popularized the genre in recent years.