The series is notoriously out of chronological order. Most experts on Radio Times and The Popverse suggest starting with or Novel Order to preserve the mystery: Bakemonogatari: The first "Monster Story".
One of the standout features of Bakemonogatari is its expertly crafted narrative structure. The novel's non-linear storytelling, which jumps back and forth in time, adds complexity and depth to the narrative, mirroring the fragmented nature of human memory and experience. This structure also allows for a nuanced exploration of character development, as the story slowly reveals the motivations and backstories of the characters. Senjougahara, in particular, is a masterfully crafted character, with a rich inner life and a complex emotional landscape. bakemonogatari the monogatari series top