Shin Kanzen Master Kanji for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N3

Shin Kanzen Master N3 Kanji covers 354 kanji at the N3 level plus 88 new readings for kanji from N5 and N4, across 25 lessons in five parts. Rather than studying kanji individually, they are learned within sentences so you see how each character is used in real expressions. Part 1 covers single-kanji words (kun-yomi). Part 2 covers kanji that form many compound words (on-yomi). Part 3 groups kanji by topic: politics, economics, society, education, culture, daily life, transport, and travel. Part 4 covers kanji where you need to learn both on-yomi and kun-yomi. Part 5 tackles kanji with three or more readings. There are two mock tests at the end. A 46-page booklet is included with kanji and word lists, an N5/N4 review list, and answers. English and Chinese translations are provided for columns and some vocabulary. The book uses a larger font size and furigana on all non-target kanji, making it accessible for learners from non-kanji backgrounds.

Opinions are mixed on this one. The approach of organising kanji by reading type rather than by theme is methodical and helps you understand how readings work, but some learners find it dry compared to So-matome's illustrated thematic grouping. The answer booklet is also awkwardly organised. If you want a more engaging daily kanji study experience, So-matome is easier to stick with. But the depth of coverage here, particularly the focus on reading rules and how to handle unfamiliar compound words, is harder to find elsewhere.