The Humans

After an incident, Professor Andrew Martin feels lost and hates everyone on the planet, except for his dog Newton. He questions his identity and what could make someone change their mind about the human race.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 20 July 2023
Publisher: Canongate Books

After an incident one wet Friday night where he was found walking naked through the streets of Cambridge, Professor Andrew Martin is not feeling quite himself. Food sickens him. Clothes confound him. Even his loving wife and teenage son are repulsive to him. He feels lost amongst an alien species and hates everyone on the planet. Everyone, that is, except Newton, and he's a dog.

Who is he really? And what could make someone change their mind about the human race?

Andrew Martin, a renowned professor, finds himself in a state of perplexity and discomfort after a distressing incident. One fateful Friday night, he was discovered wandering naked through the streets of Cambridge, leaving him disoriented and alienated from his surroundings. His once-satisfying meals now nauseate him, and the clothes that once adorned his body confuse and agitate him. Even the love and support of his wife and teenage son fail to evoke any sense of familiarity or comfort. Professor Martin feels as if he has lost his place in the world, surrounded by a species he no longer recognizes. He despises everyone, harboring deep-seated hatred for all humanity. However, amidst this overwhelming sense of isolation, there is one exception—Newton, his loyal dog.

Newton, a steadfast companion, remains unwavering in his affection for his master. Despite the professor's repulsion towards others, Newton offers him solace and unwavering loyalty. With his warm, gentle eyes and wagging tail, Newton provides a source of comfort and companionship that is desperately needed. Professor Martin begins to question his own beliefs and prejudices as he spends more time with Newton. He wonders why he had ever allowed himself to develop such strong hatred for humanity, when there are individuals like Newton who embody goodness and compassion.

As Professor Martin delves deeper into his introspection, he begins to uncover the root of his disillusionment. He reflects on the past experiences that have shaped his worldview and realizes that he has been blinded by his own biases and prejudices. He had grown up in a society that often perpetuated negative stereotypes and judgments, and he had internalized these beliefs without questioning their validity. Professor Martin's journey of self-discovery is a challenging one, but it is ultimately transformative. Through his interactions with Newton, he learns to see the world through a different lens, one that is more open-minded and empathetic.

He realizes that humanity is not a monolithic entity, but a diverse tapestry of individuals with unique experiences, perspectives, and values. He begins to seek out opportunities to connect with people from different backgrounds, to learn from their stories, and to appreciate the beauty of diversity. Professor Martin's transformation is not without its setbacks, as he faces resistance and criticism from those who cannot understand his newfound perspective. However, he remains steadfast in his commitment to change and continues to spread his message of empathy and understanding.

In the end, Professor Martin's journey serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for redemption and transformation. It is through the love and companionship of a loyal dog, and through the courage to confront our own biases and prejudices, that we can learn to see the world in a new light and embrace the diversity of humanity.

As Professor Martin continues to navigate his newfound path of empathy and understanding, he realizes that there is still much work to be done. He advocates for social change, promoting inclusivity and diversity in all aspects of society. He works tirelessly to break down barriers and create a more just and equitable world for all.

Professor Martin's story is a testament to the power of compassion and the ability of individuals to change the world. It reminds us that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope for a better tomorrow. As we continue to navigate the complexities of our world, let us remember the lessons learned from Professor Martin and strive to be agents of change in our own lives.

Weight: 222g
Dimension: 128 x 198 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781805300175
Edition number: Main