Book review: The Humans by Matt Haige

 

Rating:★★★★ 4 star read

The Humans* by Matt Haig is a delightful and thought-provoking read, even for someone who doesn’t typically gravitate toward math-related subjects. Haig expertly crafts the internal dialogue of an alien protagonist, making it not only humorous but also deeply engaging. The alien’s point of view is fresh, amusing, and offers a unique perspective on human life.

The story centers around an alien who is sent to Earth to protect a crucial mathematical discovery by assuming the identity of a professor who made the discovery. What starts as a mission focused on science quickly evolves into a heartfelt journey about the alien’s growing desire to understand humanity. As the alien observes the complexities of human emotions, relationships, and flaws, he begins to yearn to be human himself. The transformation from an outsider to someone who truly desires to experience life as we do is the heart of the story.

What really stands out in *The Humans* is Matt Haig's writing style. It’s accessible and engaging, making it an easy read despite the depth of the themes explored. The book begins with the alien making clinical, scientific observations about humanity, but as the narrative progresses, the tone shifts to reflect a more humanized perspective. This evolution in voice is subtle yet powerful, perfectly mirroring the alien’s journey of self-discovery.

Overall, *The Humans* is a quick, enjoyable, and surprisingly poignant read that combines humor, science fiction, and emotional depth. For anyone looking for a thought-provoking story that also offers plenty of laughs, this is a great choice. I’d give it four stars for its clever writing and the way it encourages reflection on what it means to be human.