Can you recommend some best contemporary mystery novels for beginners?

Sure. 'Le Petit Prince' by Antoine de Saint - Exupéry is a great start. It's a simple yet profound tale that uses allegory to talk about human nature, friendship, and love. The language is not overly complex and it's very accessible for those new to French literature.

I'd recommend 'The Westing Game' by Ellen Raskin. It's a classic among contemporary crime novels for young readers and beginners. It has a diverse cast of characters and a cleverly constructed mystery that unfolds in an apartment building. Also, 'The Name of the Star' by Maureen Johnson has a unique take on crime. It involves a girl who can see ghosts and is trying to solve a mystery related to a modern - day Jack the Ripper - like killer. It's easy to get into and full of suspense.

For beginners, 'Coraline' by Neil Gaiman is a great choice. It's not too complex and has a really engaging and spooky story that can introduce the elements of gothic literature like the otherworldly and the slightly menacing. Another good one is 'Mexican Gothic' by Silvia Moreno - Garcia. It has a clear gothic plot with a young woman going to a strange old house and uncovering secrets.

For beginners, 'Anne of Green Gables' is a classic contemporary YA novel. It has a warm and inviting story about an orphan girl and her adventures. 'Stargirl' is also a wonderful option. It's about a unique girl who stands out in a conformist high school environment. 'The Giver' is a thought - provoking read that presents a different kind of society in a way that's accessible to new YA readers.

For beginners, 'The Little Prince' by Antoine de Saint - Exupéry is a great start. It's a short and simple yet profound story that can introduce you to French literature's charm. It's full of beautiful illustrations and deep philosophical musings.

Another good one for beginners is 'City of Bones' by Cassandra Clare. It has a modern - day setting with a hidden world of Shadowhunters, who are half - angel warriors fighting demons. The story is fast - paced, and the characters are easy to follow, which makes it accessible for those new to contemporary fantasy.

For beginners, 'The Outsiders' by S.E. Hinton is a great choice. It's a simple yet engaging story about teenage gangs and social class differences. Another good one is 'Charlotte's Web' by E.B. White. It's a heartwarming story about friendship between a pig and a spider, and it gives a good taste of American literature. 'Bridge to Terabithia' by Katherine Paterson is also suitable. It's about friendship and dealing with loss in a way that's easy to understand.

Sure. 'The Hunger Games' by Suzanne Collins is a great start. It has a fast - paced plot and relatable characters. It's set in a dystopian future and is easy to get into. Another one is 'The Fault in Our Stars' by John Green. It's a love story that also deals with serious themes like illness in a very accessible way.

'Bellman & Black' by Diane Setterfield could be a good pick too. It has elements of the supernatural and a ghostly figure that haunts the main character. The writing is atmospheric and it's an easy - to - read novel that can draw beginners into the world of contemporary ghost novels.

For beginners, 'White Teeth' by Zadie Smith is a great start. It has a relatively easy - to - follow plot and the characters are very engaging. You get to see different cultures interacting in London.