The Humans: A Novel
by Matt Haig
320 pages, Paperback
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Release Date: May 9, 2013
My Rating: ★★★★★
Book Summary
When an extraterrestrial visitor arrives on Earth, his first impressions of the human species are less than positive. Taking the form of Professor Andrew Martin, a leading mathematician at Cambridge University, the visitor wants to complete his task and return home to his planet and a utopian society of immortality and infinite knowledge.
He is disgusted by the way humans look, what they eat, and the wars they witness on the news, and is totally baffled by concepts such as love and family. But as time goes on, he starts to realize there may be more to this weird species than he has been led to believe. He drinks wine, reads Emily Dickinson, listens to Talking Heads, and begins to bond with the family he lives with, in disguise. In picking up the pieces of the professor’s shattered personal life, the narrator sees hope and redemption in the humans’ imperfections and begins to question the very mission that brought him there–a mission that involves not only thwarting human progress…but murder.
— from Goodreads
Book Review
“The Humans” by Matt Haig is a thought-provoking and deeply insightful novel that explores what it truly means to be human. With its blend of humor, empathy, and profound observations, this book is a captivating exploration of the human condition.
The story follows an unnamed alien who inhabits the body of Professor Andrew Martin, a mathematician on the verge of a breakthrough. Sent to Earth to erase any knowledge of the discovery, the alien finds himself experiencing the complexities and emotions of human existence. As he navigates relationships, love, and the mundane aspects of life, he begins to question his own perspective on humanity and what it means to truly live.
Matt Haig’s writing is both poignant and humorous, offering a unique blend of philosophical ponderings and laugh-out-loud moments. He effortlessly captures the alien’s outsider perspective, using it as a lens to examine the idiosyncrasies and flaws of humanity. The narrative voice is engaging and the prose is accessible, making the story accessible to a wide range of readers.
The novel delves into existential questions and tackles themes such as love, vulnerability, and the pursuit of happiness. It offers a poignant reminder of the importance of embracing our emotions, finding joy in the ordinary moments, and cherishing our connections with others.
“The Humans” also explores mental health and the impact of societal norms on individuals. Haig delves into themes of anxiety and depression, shedding light on the pressures and expectations that often weigh heavily on human lives. His sensitive portrayal of these issues encourages empathy and understanding, making the story resonate deeply emotionally.
Overall, “The Humans” is a remarkable novel that combines humor, introspection, and profound observations on what it means to be human. Matt Haig’s writing is captivating, and his exploration of existential questions is both thought-provoking and deeply moving. While the novel tackles complex themes, it does so with a lightness of touch and a dose of humor that makes it accessible and enjoyable. “The Humans” is a literary gem that will leave readers pondering the complexities of life long after they turn the final page. It is a must-read for anyone seeking a profound and uplifting literary experience.
