Earthlings

Earthlings is a provocative and unconventional novel by Sayaka Murata, renowned for her insightful explorations of identity and societal norms. This captivating narrative centres on Natsuki, a young girl who feels alienated in a world that does not understand her. From a tender age, she harbours the belief that she is an extraterrestrial being, longing for the day when a spaceship will arrive to take her home.

The Plot

The story unfolds as Natsuki grapples with her identity amidst the pressures of conformity in Japanese society. As she navigates the complexities of family dynamics, societal expectations, and her own vivid imagination, the line between reality and fantasy begins to blur. Her journey is marked by a series of unsettling events that challenge her understanding of love, friendship, and the meaning of being human.

Themes

• Alienation and belonging
• The nature of reality versus imagination
• Societal norms and individuality

Murata’s writing style is both accessible and deeply thought-provoking, drawing readers into Natsuki’s world with a blend of dark humour and poignant reflection. The novel raises profound questions about the human experience, encouraging readers to reconsider their own perceptions of normality.

“A striking exploration of what it means to be different in a world that demands conformity.”

Fans of Murata’s previous work, such as Convenience Store Woman, will find familiar themes of alienation and identity woven throughout Earthlings. This novel resonates with readers who appreciate literary fiction that challenges societal norms and delves into the complexities of the human psyche.