The following is the monthly ranking of bestsellers released by book wholesaler Nippon Shuppan Hanbai Inc. (NIPPAN) on March 31:

1.  Hibana by Naoki Matayoshi (comedian)

[Sparks]

Hibana is a much-talked about book written by a well-known Japanese comedian. This is Matayoshi’s first novel. The author talks about laughter and the meaning of life. Matayoshi writes honestly about the foundation of human existence.

2.  Furansujin wa Jucchakushika Fuku wo Motanai by Jennifer L. Scott

[The French Have Only Ten Items of Clothing/original English title: “Lessons from Madame Chic”]

Each chapter of the book reveals a valuable secret the author learned while under Madame Chic’s tutelage in Paris – tips you can incorporate into your own life, no matter where you live or the size of your budget.

3.  NARUTO Shikamaru Hiden – Yami no Moku ni Ukabu Kumo (comic book) by Masahi Kishimoto

[Naruto: Secret of Shikamaru – A Cloud Drifting in Silent Darkness]

Naruto is a Japanese manga series. “Shikamaru Hiden” is the second installment in the manga series. The manga has sold 200 million copies in print around the world and is available in more than 35 countries and regions, making it the third best-selling manga series in history.

 4.  Kamisama no Karute Zero by Sosuke Natsukawa

[In His Chart 0]

Kamisama no Karute is a series of Japanese novels, based on which a film was produced. Kamisama no Karute Zero is the fourth installment in the series. More than 2 million copies of the novels in the series have been sold. The story is about a physician who works at a clinic in the countryside.

5.  MY NAME IS… RINKA by Rinka (fashion model)

This is a photo-essay depicting the lifestyle of the author, Rinka, who is a female fashion model.