The Humans

Based on your book

The Humans

by Matt Haig

The Humans drops an alien into the body of a Cambridge professor, his mission to erase all traces of a groundbreaking mathematical discovery. What starts as a cold, analytical task quickly turns into a bewildered, often hilarious, and profoundly moving exploration of humanity. Our alien protagonist, accustomed to a purely logical existence, grapples with everything from peanut butter to poetry, discovering the messy, illogical, and utterly beautiful complexities of human emotion and connection. It's a book that makes you laugh out loud at the absurdity of our daily lives, then quietly ponder the profound meaning behind them. If you appreciate a story that uses an outsider's eyes to help you rediscover the wonder and heartbreak of being human, this one will resonate deeply. It's for anyone who enjoys introspective humor and a genuinely heartwarming journey of self-discovery through an unconventional lens.

10 Books similar to 'The Humans'

If you cherished the unique outsider perspective and heartwarming journey of self-discovery in The Humans, our recommendations are tailor-made for you. We've curated a list of books that, like Haig's novel, invite you to see the world through fresh eyes, whether it's an alien learning about us, a curmudgeon softening his worldview, or someone navigating unfamiliar social landscapes. These stories blend humor with poignant introspection, celebrating the often-messy beauty of human connection and personal growth. They're all about finding meaning and warmth in the everyday, often through unexpected encounters.

We earn from qualifying purchases through our affiliate partners, including Amazon and Bookshop.org.

A Man Called Ove
A Man Called Ove

by Fredrik Backman

Like the alien in 'The Humans' who slowly learns to appreciate humanity, Ove is a curmudgeonly man whose rigid worldview is softened by unexpected connections. This heartwarming and humorous novel explores themes of community, love, and finding joy in the everyday, much like the alien's journey of rediscovery.

The Midnight Library
The Midnight Library

by Matt Haig

Another masterpiece by Matt Haig, this book delves into existential questions about life, choices, and regret, mirroring the philosophical introspection found in 'The Humans.' Readers will appreciate the hopeful tone and the protagonist's journey to understand what truly makes a life worth living.

Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine

by Gail Honeyman

Eleanor, like the alien protagonist, is initially an outsider struggling to navigate social norms and understand human connection. Her journey of personal growth, finding friendship, and overcoming past trauma offers a similar blend of humor, poignancy, and heartwarming discovery of what it means to belong.

Project Hail Mary
Project Hail Mary

by Andy Weir

This sci-fi adventure features a protagonist in an unfamiliar situation, relying on ingenuity and forming an unlikely connection with an alien, much like the alien in 'The Humans' learning about humanity. It shares a witty narrative voice, a sense of wonder, and a hopeful outlook on problem-solving and connection.

Amazon Gift Card

Not sure what they've already read?

Let them pick their next favorite with an Amazon Gift Card.

Shop Gift Cards

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Convenience Store Woman
Convenience Store Woman

by Sayaka Murata

This quirky novel follows a woman who finds solace and identity in the rigid structure of a convenience store, struggling to understand and conform to societal expectations outside of it. It offers a unique, observational perspective on human behavior and identity, much like the alien's analytical view in 'The Humans.'

Slaughterhouse-Five
Slaughterhouse-Five

by Kurt Vonnegut

Vonnegut's classic employs an alien perspective (the Tralfamadorians) to observe and comment on human nature, war, and the absurdity of existence, resonating with the philosophical and darkly humorous insights of 'The Humans.' It's a profound and satirical exploration of humanity's flaws and resilience.

The Martian
The Martian

by Andy Weir

While not an alien observing humans, this book features a human in an utterly alien environment, relying on wit, resilience, and ingenuity to survive. It shares 'The Humans'' optimistic spirit, problem-solving focus, and a deep appreciation for the human capacity to adapt and overcome.

Stardust
Stardust

by Neil Gaiman

This whimsical fantasy follows a young man's journey into a magical realm, where he learns about love, courage, and self-discovery in a world far removed from his own. Its charming narrative and exploration of human emotions through a fantastical lens will appeal to readers who enjoyed the heartwarming and magical elements of 'The Humans.'

Life of Pi
Life of Pi

by Yann Martel

This philosophical adventure explores profound questions about survival, faith, and the nature of reality through the eyes of a young boy stranded at sea. Its introspective narrative and unique perspective on the human spirit's resilience echo the deep reflections on humanity found in 'The Humans.'

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

by Mark Haddon

Told from the unique perspective of a neurodivergent teenager, this book offers an observational and often literal interpretation of the human world, much like the alien's initial understanding. It's a poignant and quirky story of self-discovery, family secrets, and learning to navigate a complex world.