The Humans by Matt Haig: Your Complete Guide
The Humans by Matt Haig is a science-fiction novel with a big heart, and yes, it’s available in Sri Lanka with island-wide delivery from Bookshop Near Me. First published in 2013, this bestselling book follows an alien sent to Earth who slowly falls in love with what it means to be human. If you’ve been searching for The Humans in Sri Lanka, this guide covers the plot, the author, why it’s worth reading, and exactly where to buy it.
Key Takeaways
- The Humans is a 2013 novel by British author Matt Haig, blending science fiction, comedy, and philosophy.
- The story is narrated by an alien who takes over a mathematics professor’s body and learns to understand human emotions.
- It’s a warm, funny, and moving book ideal for readers who enjoy thoughtful stories about love, family, and life.
- Matt Haig also wrote the international bestseller The Midnight Library and the memoir Reasons to Stay Alive.
- You can buy The Humans in Sri Lanka online with island-wide delivery from Bookshop Near Me.
Quick Facts About The Humans
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Title | The Humans |
| Author | Matt Haig |
| Genre | Science Fiction / Literary Fiction / Comedy |
| First Published | 2013 |
| Format | Paperback |
| Availability in Sri Lanka | Bookshop Near Me (island-wide delivery) |
What is “The Humans” about?
The Humans is about an alien who is sent to Earth to erase evidence of a major mathematical breakthrough — and instead learns what it means to be human. The alien takes over the body of Professor Andrew Martin, a Cambridge mathematician, after the professor solves the Riemann hypothesis. The visitor’s mission is to stop this knowledge from advancing humanity too quickly and dangerously.
At first, the alien finds humans baffling, ugly, and violent. It doesn’t understand clothes, family, dogs, or peanut butter sandwiches. But as it spends time with Andrew’s wife, Isobel, and their troubled teenage son, Gulliver, something shifts. The narrator begins to experience emotions it was never supposed to feel — love, grief, wonder, and the quiet joys of an ordinary life.
The novel is written from the alien’s point of view, which makes everyday human behaviour feel strange and often hilarious. Through this outsider’s eyes, Matt Haig gently reminds us how remarkable ordinary human life really is. You can find the full details and order your copy on the product page here.
Who is Matt Haig?
Matt Haig is a British author born in 1975, known for writing across fiction, non-fiction, and children’s literature, often exploring mental health, hope, and what makes life meaningful. He rose to worldwide fame with The Midnight Library (2020), which became a runaway bestseller and a favourite among readers around the globe, including here in Sri Lanka.
Haig has spoken openly about his own experiences with depression and anxiety, which deeply informs his writing. His memoir Reasons to Stay Alive (2015) has helped countless readers feel less alone. This personal honesty gives his fiction a rare emotional depth — even a science-fiction story like The Humans becomes a meditation on why life is worth living.
Some of Matt Haig’s most popular titles include:
- The Midnight Library (2020)
- The Humans (2013)
- Reasons to Stay Alive (2015)
- How to Stop Time (2017)
- The Comfort Book (2021)
His writing style is warm, accessible, and quietly profound — never overly academic, which makes his books easy to recommend to almost any reader. You can explore more of his work on the Matt Haig author page.
What makes “The Humans” worth reading?
The Humans is worth reading because it combines laugh-out-loud comedy with genuine emotional depth, using an alien narrator to make you fall in love with ordinary human life all over again. It’s the kind of book that entertains you on the surface while quietly changing how you see the world.
Here’s what makes it stand out:
- A fresh perspective: Seeing Earth through alien eyes turns everyday things — music, love, wine, and mathematics — into small miracles.
- Humour and heart: The narrator’s confusion about human customs is genuinely funny, but the story never loses its emotional core.
- Big ideas, easy reading: Haig tackles love, mortality, and belonging without heavy academic language.
- Memorable “advice” section: Near the end, the narrator lists life lessons for humans — a passage many readers quote and return to.
- Short and satisfying: At a manageable length, it’s perfect for readers who want a meaningful story they can finish in a few sittings.
If you enjoyed the reflective, hopeful tone of The Midnight Library, you’ll find The Humans delivers the same emotional payoff in a more unusual, comic package. It’s a great pick for anyone wanting to rediscover the beauty of everyday life.
Who should read this book?
The Humans is ideal for readers who enjoy thoughtful, feel-good fiction with a philosophical twist — especially fans of stories that mix humour, science fiction, and emotional depth. You don’t need to be a science-fiction fan to enjoy it, because the alien premise is really just a doorway into a deeply human story.
This book is a great fit for:
- Fans of Matt Haig who loved The Midnight Library and want more of his warm, hopeful storytelling.
- Readers going through a difficult time who need a gentle reminder that life is worth it.
- University students and professionals looking for a light yet meaningful read between busy schedules.
- Gift buyers searching for a thoughtful present — this book suits almost any adult reader.
- Book club members who enjoy discussing themes of love, family, and what makes us human.
In short, if you like fiction that makes you laugh, think, and feel all at once, The Humans belongs on your shelf. It’s especially rewarding for readers aged 15 and up who appreciate a story with genuine emotional warmth.
Books similar to “The Humans”
If you loved The Humans, here are several titles available at Bookshop Near Me that share its emotional depth, storytelling charm, or thoughtful themes.
- If you liked the tender love story at the heart of the book, try Love on the Brain by Ali Hazelwood — a witty, science-flavoured romance about two brilliant people learning to understand each other.
- If you enjoyed the emotional, life-affirming themes, pick up The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah — a powerful, moving story about love, courage, and human resilience.
- If you liked the reflective look at one person’s inner life, read The Many Lives & Secret Sorrows of Josephine B. — a rich, character-driven historical novel.
- If you enjoyed the philosophical undertones and big questions, explore Mahabharata: Stories of Valor and Virtue, which offers timeless reflections on duty, morality, and the human condition.
And of course, once you finish, don’t forget to browse more titles by the author on the Matt Haig author page — his back catalogue is full of equally rewarding reads.
Where can I buy “The Humans” in Sri Lanka?
You can buy The Humans in Sri Lanka online from Bookshop Near Me, which offers island-wide delivery straight to your door. Whether you’re in Colombo, Kandy, Galle, Jaffna, or a smaller town, you can order the book from home and have it delivered without needing to visit a physical store.
Here’s why ordering from Bookshop Near Me is convenient:
- Island-wide delivery to all parts of Sri Lanka.
- Genuine, quality copies of the book.
- Easy online ordering from your phone or computer.
- A wide catalogue so you can add similar titles to the same order.
To place your order, simply visit the The Humans product page, add it to your cart, and check out. It’s the easiest way for Sri Lankan readers to get their hands on this modern classic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Humans available in Sri Lanka?
Yes. The Humans by Matt Haig is available in Sri Lanka from Bookshop Near Me, with island-wide delivery to Colombo, Kandy, Galle, Jaffna, and beyond.
What genre is The Humans by Matt Haig?
The Humans is a blend of science fiction, literary fiction, and comedy. Although it features an alien narrator, it’s really an emotional, philosophical story about love, family, and everyday human life.
Do I need to read Matt Haig’s other books first?
No. The Humans is a completely standalone novel. You can read it without having read The Midnight Library or any of Matt Haig’s other books.
Is The Humans suitable for teenagers?
Yes, The Humans is generally suitable for readers aged 15 and up. It contains mature themes handled thoughtfully, and its humour and emotional warmth appeal to both teens and adults.
How long does it take to read The Humans?
The Humans is a relatively short and fast-paced novel, and most readers finish it within a few days. Its conversational style and short chapters make it an easy, engaging read.
What should I read after The Humans?
If you enjoyed The Humans, try The Midnight Library by the same author, or explore Love on the Brain and The Nightingale for more emotionally rich stories available at Bookshop Near Me.
Final Thoughts
The Humans by Matt Haig is one of those rare books that entertains and moves you in equal measure. Through the eyes of a confused alien, it reminds us how strange, funny, and beautiful ordinary human life truly is — from a good cup of tea to the people we love. It’s a perfect read for anyone in Sri Lanka looking for a story that leaves them feeling a little more hopeful.
Ready to start reading? Order your copy of The Humans today from Bookshop Near Me and enjoy convenient island-wide delivery. And while you’re there, explore more of Matt Haig’s books to build your next great reading list. Happy reading!