The Humans by Matt Haig follows an extraterrestrial who assumes the identity of a deceased mathematician, Andrew Martin, to erase all traces of his Earth-shattering mathematical discovery. The alien navigates early misunderstandings about human culture but grows to appreciate human love, family, and emotions, creating a conflict with his mission directives. The novel explores themes of identity, love, and what it means to be human. This book contains violence and themes of mental health struggles.

Matt Haig's The Humans has received praise for its witty and tender exploration of human life through an alien's eyes. Reviewers enjoyed its humor and heartfelt moments but noted that the narrative occasionally felt predictable. Overall, the novel is applauded for its clever insight and emotive storytelling, making it a compelling read.

Readers who enjoyed The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams or Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett will appreciate The Humans by Matt Haig for its witty, poignant exploration of human nature through an alien perspective. It’s perfect for those who relish humor, philosophical musings, and heartwarming tales.

Contemplative / Humorous / Emotional / Bittersweet / Inspirational

- The Humans by Matt Haig combines elements of science fiction and philosophical reflection, exploring themes about the human condition through the eyes of an alien protagonist.
- Matt Haig was inspired to write The Humans after experiencing a severe anxiety disorder, which influenced the novel's exploration of what it means to be human.
- The book includes a unique "list of advice" chapter, where the alien protagonist provides humorous and poignant insights about life on Earth.

**Andrew**  
The protagonist and narrator, originally a hyper-rational extraterrestrial, who undergoes significant character development as he learns to embrace human emotions and relationships.

**Isobel**  
Andrew's wife, a successful historian and writer, who symbolizes stability and hope while teaching Andrew about love and human connections.

**Gulliver**  
Andrew and Isobel’s son, a struggling teenager grappling with depression, whose relationship with Andrew helps both find meaning and connection.

Matt Haig

Adult

Novel

Fiction

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Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore The Humans reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read The Humans | SuperSummary

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Humans and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Humans Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “I Took My Power in My Hand”

Preface-Part 1, Chapter 10

The Humans Preface-Part 1, Chapter 10 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 11-21

The Humans Part 1, Chapters 11-21 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 22-32 

The Humans Part 1, Chapters 22-32  Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “I Held a Jewel in My Fingers”

Part 2, Chapters 33-45

The Humans Part 2, Chapters 33-45 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 46-67

The Humans Part 2, Chapters 46-67 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “The Wounded Deer Leaps the Highest”

Part 3, Chapters 68-80

The Humans Part 3, Chapters 68-80 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Humans Character Analysis

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Themes

The Humans Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Humans Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Humans Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Humans Essay Topics

The Humans

Before You Read

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Who Should Read The Humans?

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