Earthlings

In this thought-provoking novel by Sayaka Murata, a woman grapples with her identity and past traumas while seeking escape from societal norms, ultimately questioning the lengths one might go to be authentic.

Earthlings is a thought-provoking novel by Sayaka Murata, renowned for her bestseller Convenience Store Woman. This story delves into the complexities of identity and the lengths one might go to in order to embrace their true self. The protagonist, Natsuki, grapples with feelings of alienation from her family and peers, believing herself to be an extraterrestrial. This sense of otherness shapes her childhood and fuels her desire for escape, hoping that a spaceship might rescue her from her mundane existence.

As an adult, Natsuki finds herself in an asexual marriage, living a life that appears normal on the surface, yet is riddled with internal conflict. The haunting memories of her past begin to resurface, prompting her to question her choices and the societal expectations that bind her. In a bid for freedom, she leaves the familiar confines of suburbia for the more remote Nagano mountains, seeking solace and connection with her cousin Yuu. This journey becomes a pivotal moment for Natsuki, as she confronts her past and contemplates what it truly means to escape from the constraints of the world around her.

Murata's narrative is both intimate and unsettling, capturing the essence of Natsuki's struggles with dark humor and a unique perspective. Earthlings challenges readers to reflect on their own identities and the societal norms that shape them, making it a compelling and introspective read. Through Natsuki's journey, the novel invites us to consider how far we would go to be our authentic selves.