The Humans By Matt Haig: An Indigo Book Review

Hey guys! Have you ever wondered what an alien would think of us humans? Matt Haig's The Humans is a hilarious and thought-provoking novel that does just that. It's a wild ride that will make you laugh, cry, and question everything you thought you knew about being human. Let's dive into why this book is such a gem.

What is "The Humans" About?

The Humans tells the story of an alien who arrives on Earth and takes over the body of Professor Andrew Martin, a Cambridge mathematician. The alien's mission is to stop Andrew from revealing a mathematical breakthrough that could have disastrous consequences for the universe. However, as the alien lives as Andrew, he begins to understand and appreciate the complexities of human life, including its beauty, absurdity, and capacity for love.

A Fish-Out-Of-Water Story

The humor in The Humans largely stems from the alien's naive and brutally honest observations about human behavior. He can't understand why we do the things we do, like wear uncomfortable clothes, watch reality TV, or get emotional about sports. His confusion is both funny and insightful, forcing us to look at our own lives from a fresh perspective.

More Than Just a Comedy

While The Humans is undoubtedly funny, it's also a deeply moving story about what it means to be human. The alien, despite his initial disdain for humanity, learns to appreciate our capacity for love, compassion, and creativity. He sees the beauty in the everyday moments that we often take for granted, like a shared meal with family or a walk in the park.

Themes Explored

Haig explores a range of themes in The Humans, including:

• The Meaning of Life: The alien's search for the meaning of life leads him to question the values and priorities of human society.
• The Nature of Love: The alien learns about the power of love through Andrew's relationships with his wife and son.
• The Importance of Connection: The alien realizes that human connection is essential for happiness and well-being.
• The Absurdity of Existence: Haig uses humor to highlight the absurdity of human existence and the challenges we face.

Why You Should Read "The Humans"

So, why should you pick up The Humans? Here are a few reasons:

It's Hilarious

If you're looking for a book that will make you laugh out loud, The Humans is a perfect choice. Haig's writing is witty and insightful, and the alien's observations about human behavior are laugh-out-loud funny.

It's Thought-Provoking

The Humans is more than just a comedy. It's a book that will make you think about your own life and the world around you. Haig raises important questions about the meaning of life, the nature of love, and the importance of connection.

It's Heartwarming

Despite its humor, The Humans is a heartwarming story about the power of love and compassion. The alien's journey of discovery will leave you feeling hopeful and optimistic about humanity.

Matt Haig: The Author Behind the Book

Matt Haig is a British author and journalist who has written extensively about mental health. His work often explores themes of depression, anxiety, and the search for meaning in life. The Humans is one of his most popular novels, and it has been praised for its humor, insight, and heartwarming message.

Haig's Writing Style

Haig's writing style is characterized by its wit, honesty, and accessibility. He has a knack for making complex ideas easy to understand, and he's not afraid to tackle difficult subjects. His books are often described as being both funny and profound, offering readers a unique blend of entertainment and enlightenment.

Other Notable Works

In addition to The Humans, Matt Haig has written several other notable books, including:

• Reasons to Stay Alive: A memoir about his own experiences with depression and anxiety.
• The Midnight Library: A novel about a woman who gets to explore different versions of her life.
• Notes on a Nervous Planet: A guide to navigating the challenges of modern life.

Diving Deeper into the Themes of "The Humans"

The Humans isn't just a quirky sci-fi comedy; it's a novel brimming with profound reflections on what it truly means to be human. Let's explore some of these themes in more detail.

The Absurdity of Human Customs

Through the alien's eyes, we see how bizarre many of our daily rituals and societal norms are. From the obsession with material possessions to the complex rules of dating, the book highlights the often-unspoken, and often illogical, rules we live by. This isn't just for laughs; it prompts us to question why we do what we do and whether these customs truly serve us.

For instance, the alien is baffled by the human need to impress others with expensive cars or designer clothes. He sees these items as unnecessary and impractical, questioning why humans prioritize status over genuine connection and happiness. This critique encourages us to reflect on our own values and consider whether we're chasing after things that truly matter.

The Power of Imperfection

The alien initially sees humans as flawed and illogical creatures. However, as he spends more time among them, he begins to appreciate their imperfections. He realizes that it is our flaws that make us unique and that it is through our struggles that we grow and learn. The Humans ultimately suggests that it is okay to be imperfect and that it is in fact our imperfections that make us beautiful.

Consider Andrew Martin's character, for example. He's brilliant but also deeply flawed, struggling with depression and self-doubt. It's through these struggles that he connects with his family and ultimately rediscovers his love for life. The alien learns that true strength lies not in perfection but in embracing our vulnerabilities and finding meaning in our imperfections.

Love as a Defining Human Trait

At the heart of The Humans is a celebration of love in all its forms. The alien witnesses the love between Andrew and his wife, Isobel, the love between Andrew and his son, Gulliver, and even the love between friends. He comes to understand that love is the most powerful force in the universe and that it is what makes us human.

The book beautifully portrays the complexities of love, showcasing its joys, its sorrows, and its enduring power. It reminds us that love is not always easy but that it is always worth fighting for. The alien's transformation is largely driven by his exposure to human love, demonstrating its ability to change even the most cynical of hearts.

Indigo and "The Humans"

You might be wondering why the prompt specifically mentions "Indigo." Indigo is a popular bookstore chain, particularly in Canada, and it's a great place to discover books like The Humans. If you're browsing through Indigo, keep an eye out for Matt Haig's work – you won't be disappointed!

Discovering New Reads at Indigo

Indigo offers a wide selection of books across various genres, making it a haven for book lovers. Whether you're looking for the latest bestsellers, classic literature, or hidden gems like The Humans, Indigo has something for everyone.

Supporting Authors and Bookstores

By purchasing books at Indigo or other bookstores, you're supporting authors and the literary community. Your support helps ensure that authors can continue to create amazing stories and that bookstores can continue to provide a space for readers to discover new worlds.

Final Thoughts: Is "The Humans" Worth Reading?

Absolutely! The Humans is a fantastic read that will stay with you long after you finish the last page. It's a funny, thought-provoking, and heartwarming story that will make you appreciate the beauty and absurdity of human life. So, go ahead and pick up a copy – you won't regret it!

So, to sum it up, The Humans by Matt Haig is a must-read for anyone who enjoys witty, insightful, and heartwarming stories. It's a book that will make you laugh, think, and maybe even cry a little. But most importantly, it's a book that will remind you of the beauty and wonder of being human. Happy reading, guys!