‘Earthlings’ by Sayaka Murata

'Convenience Store Woman' (from the same author) attracted me to this novel. Having had such a fun feeling about the novel and yet encapsulating this feeling of isolation, I found it such a quirky, distinctive style. I'd recommend anyone read this.

To say this quirky style continued in 'Earthlings' is perhaps a gross understatement. This book comments on societal norms with an uncomfortable approach, addressing these points in a bizarre, disturbing way. Just like her previous book, it’s an overarching comment on what it’s like to not fit into societal standards. With some wild themes regularly popping up during the novel, it ends up feeling very ridiculous.

I think I found the book a little too alienating... And maybe that is the overarching theme; to equate the readers to the earthlings in the novel, but in doing so, I feel like it has prevented me from relating to the experiences read.

The more I write this post, oddly, the more I seem to have enjoyed the book, nevertheless I probably wouldn't recommend anyone to read it. It's just a little too weird.