A review by sweetearlgrey
Earthlings by Sayaka Murata

medium-paced

4.0

 Sayaka Murata’s Earthlings is a visceral and haunting novel; which is probably why I had a sudden desire to revisit it after three years. Murata satirises the human experience from a perspective of someone who does not quite fit in. She portrays darkness in a way that is unapologetic, raw, and unsettling. Being allergic to poorly-done allegory, I appreciate that she doesn't try to "accomplish" anything or represent anyone with this novel. The characters do this on their own without the extra padding.

Murata’s writing sometimes teeters on the edge of simplicity, even childlike. Yet, this straightforward style suits the main character—a girl and later a woman navigating a world that often feels alien. The dialogue, while occasionally jarring, mirrors the characters’ struggle to communicate in a conformist society.

And then there’s the unexpected left turn:
the descent into cannibalism.
Murata goes full horror, unflinching in her portrayal. It’s a daring move that disrupts our expectations, leaving us both fascinated and disturbed.

It's worth mentioning that Earthlings is not for everyone. Look over the trigger warnings—prepare yourself for the unsettling journey. 
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