Earthlings is a novel by Japanese feminist author Sayaka Murata. This bold and inventive work follows a lonely and alienated protagonist, Noninashi, as she searches for meaning and contentment. Through the course of this novel, Murata offers up a remarkable examination of human connection and the push and pull between self-expression and conformity.
The story opens with Noninashi, a shy and reclusive young woman, living as an outcast among her peers at her school and in her small town. Being an outcast has taken its toll on Noninashi and she often feels unloved and neglected.
The novel follows Noninashi as she begins to explore her identity and make sense of her place in the world. Noninashi confronts her past and present, discovering friends and family who accept and understand her for who she is. Despite these breakthroughs, Noninashi feels torn between her inner desire to express herself without judgment and the everyday expectation to simply conform to the status quo.
In the first part of the novel, Noninashi begins to form meaningful relationships with her family, her friends and even strangers she meets. These new relationships begin to transform Noninashi's perceptions of herself and she begins to find strength and courage in her vulnerability.
In the second part of the book, Noninashi embarks on a physical and emotional journey of self-discovery. As she goes, she learns valuable lessons about herself, her place in the world, and the importance of making real human connections.
The novel culminates in a touching finale that sees Noninashi finally embraced for who she is after a long and challenging journey. Her newfound confidence gives her an appreciation for the earth, which she affectionately calls her newfound home.
Earthlings is a visually stunning and emotionally charged novel that poignantly captures the truth about human connection and self-expression. In a world that is becoming increasingly difficult to navigate, Murata offers a deep, meaningful and uplifting exploration of what it means to be alive in the modern day. Noninashi's indomitable courage and will to survive in the face of adversity are a timely and inspiring message to readers of all ages.
